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Robata & sake in Yasu — Robata & Sake Uomaru Yasu

SeafoodRobataStraw-grilledBonitoOmi beefSakeLocal sakePrivate hirePrivate roomsBanquets

Our story

Counter seats with a pale wood countertop and wooden stools along a deep green tiled wall at Uomaru Yasu Shrimp cream spring rolls Potato salad with salmon roe Table seats and counter seats laid out on a single floor inside Uomaru Yasu

Commitment

1

The size of the bonito

In spring, young 2-3kg first-catch bonito; in autumn, richly fatty 4-5kg returning bonito, carefully selected by season.

2

Raw bonito from Kochi

Most Kochi bonito is pole-and-line caught, leaving it beautiful and undamaged. We ship our select bonito direct from the port.

3

Straw from Shiga

We use straw hand-cut ourselves from vast contracted fields in Shiga. Dried straw burns hot with the finest smoky aroma.

4

The grilling

Over straw flames reaching 1000 degrees, we sear a crust about 5mm into the flesh, then finish with residual heat to lock in flavor.

5

The thickness of the cut

Cut over 1cm thick so the straw aroma fills your mouth, brimming with bonito flavor and a springy texture.

6

Our chosen salt

A fully sun-dried salt handmade by artisans from Kochi seawater. We select larger crystals for a mellow mineral taste.

Service

01

Robata & Warayaki

Bonito from Kochi and Omi beef from Shiga, grilled over straw right before you. Seasonal fish and vegetables draw out their fullest flavor over charcoal.

02

Sake & Local Brews

A generous selection of sake chosen from across Japan, including local Shiga brews — from dry to sweet. Our staff suggest the one glass that suits your dish, so you can enjoy sake tasting in Yasu.

03

Seafood & Sashimi

Fresh fish shipped straight from the port, finished into sashimi by skilled hands. Enjoy the seafood of Yasu in seasonal plates such as our five-kind sashimi platter.

04

Omi Beef & Omi Chicken

Shiga's specialty Omi beef, straw-grilled or miso-marinated, and overnight-dried Omi chicken. Enjoy Shiga's premium ingredients dynamically over charcoal in Yasu.

05

Private Rooms & Banquets

Relaxing private rooms, banquet courses with free-flow drinks, and full-venue bookings on request. Steps from Yasu Station — ideal for company parties and gatherings.

How to enjoy Robata

Robata Story

01

A 45 seat room puts you near the fire

Thirteen counter seats, twelve table seats, eight in the private room and twelve on the terrace: 45 in all. In a room this size, the flames and the crackle of the straw reach every seat.

02

Nothing added, just the ingredient

The finished surface carries the smoke of burning straw. Leave the first slice unseasoned and taste the natural sweetness underneath.

03

In winter, cold yellowtail with salt and citrus

Later in the plate, shift with condiments, rock salt and citrus. Winter brings kanburi yellowtail, whose fat loosens and lightens against salt and citrus.

04

A cigarette and a cup, out to the terrace

Every seat, including the twelve on the terrace, allows smoking. Our staff suggest Shiga sake, dry through sweet, to match your sashimi or straw-grilled dish.

Producers

Tosa-Saga Port, KochiIkkatsu no Daiki

Saga is where the Kuroshio current first meets Japan, a town thriving on pole-and-line bonito fishing and one of Kochi's foremost fishing towns.

Tano, KochiTanoya Seihachi

A genuine sun-dried salt made using only the sun's heat, with painstaking care. Entirely handmade, it grows into crystals that melt in the mouth, the very finest sun-dried salt.

Straw-grilling

Pairing

Q1 / 3

Today's moodWhat are you in the mood for today?

Main dishWhat will be your main?

Sake preferenceWhich sake style do you like?

Your pairing

Crisp & CleanLight-dry junmai × white fish & shellfish sashimi

Crisp, dry junmai such as Shiga's Daijiro or Kochi's Akitora, to lift the delicate sweetness of white fish and shellfish sashimi. Refreshing from the first sip to the last.

Rich & BoldRich junmai ginjo × straw-grilled Omi beef

Full, savory junmai such as Shiga's Shichihonyari or Fukuoka's Wakanami — with depth to stand up to straw-grilled Omi beef and rich robata. Savory meets savory.

Aromatic & SmokyAromatic ginjo / warm kan × straw-grilled bonito

Aromatic sake such as Kirakucho Junmai Ginjo or Oze no Yukidoke Junmai Daiginjo, to echo the smoky char of straw-grilled bonito. Fragrance layered on fragrance.

Warm & BalancedGentle warm kan × seasonal robata & dashimaki

A gentle warm kan such as Shiga's Kazuhiro or Shimane's Juji Asahi, to match seasonal robata and dashi-rolled omelette. A calm, comforting balance for a long evening.

Course

11 dishes

Uomaru Standard Course

¥5,000 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Duck Charcoal-Grill Course

¥6,000 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Beef Charcoal-Grill

¥7,000 (tax incl.)

7 dishes

Omi Beef Luxury Sukiyaki

¥10,000 (tax incl.)

See all banquet courses

Signature

Straw-grilled bonito
01

Straw-grilled bonitoStraw-grilled bonito

Fresh bonito from Kochi, seared over a roaring straw flame right before you — smoky aroma, concentrated flavor.

Straw-grilled Omi beef
02

Straw-grilled Omi beefStraw-grilled Omi beef

Shiga's premium Omi beef, grilled over straw to draw out its aroma and natural richness.

Fresh sashimi platter
03

Fresh sashimi platterFresh sashimi platter

The day's freshest fish from the port, arranged with care by our skilled hands.

Overnight-dried atka mackerel
04

Overnight-dried atka mackerelOvernight-dried atka mackerel

Plump, overnight-dried atka mackerel grilled to order — a robata classic.

Robata-grilled thick fried tofu
05

Robata-grilled thick fried tofuRobata-grilled thick fried tofu

Thick fried tofu grilled over charcoal — crisp outside, tender within.

Seared Hakata mentaiko
06

Seared Hakata mentaikoSeared Hakata mentaiko

Hakata mentaiko lightly seared over the robata to bring out its aroma — a fine partner for sake.

8-hour braised pork belly
07

8-hour braised pork belly8-hour braised pork belly

Pork belly slowly braised for eight hours until meltingly tender.

Uomaru dashi-rolled omelette
08

Uomaru dashi-rolled omeletteUomaru dashi-rolled omelette

Rolled one by one by hand, brimming with dashi — a quiet signature.

Wasanbon crème brûlée
09

Wasanbon crème brûléeWasanbon crème brûlée

Elegant wasanbon sweetness under a crisp, bittersweet caramel to close the night.

Yasu

Yasu izakaya Yasu seafood Yasu sake Robatayaki Yasu Omi beef robata Near Yasu Station Private room izakaya Yasu private hire Banquets

See FAQ on private hire, seating and access

Scenes

Dates & anniversaries

A calm Japanese space and private rooms for a special evening. Pair fresh sashimi with local Shiga sake in the heart of Yasu.

Business dining

Private rooms near Yasu Station for relaxed business dining. Straw-grilled Omi beef and carefully selected sake leave a strong impression.

Banquets & groups

Nine banquet courses with 2 hours of free-flow drinks from ¥4,500 (tax incl.), plus private rooms and full-venue options for company parties in Yasu.

After sightseeing

After a walk around Mt. Mikami or the shores of Lake Biwa. Open daily from 17:00 until 24:00 (L.O. food 23:00 / drinks 23:30).

Solo drinking

Lively counter seats where solo guests watch the cooking up close. A single plate and a glass of sake, at your own pace.

Family & sightseeing

Family-friendly with a variety of dishes, near Yasu Station and Lake Biwa — a perfect stop while out around the Konan area of Shiga.

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The Charm and How to Choose a Private Room at Kitano Izakaya

Creating Special Moments at Kitano Izakaya

To our guests in Yasu and those visiting from afar, welcome to Kitano Izakaya. Our restaurant is a place where you can spend a relaxing time in Yasu, Shiga, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We are particularly proud of our private rooms, which are in high demand and perfect for a variety of occasions. As a premier izakaya in Yasu, we want to provide the best possible experience for our customers, so today we'd like to delve into the charm and practical uses of our private rooms.

Popular as a local pub near Yasu Station, we await your visit with an abundance of fresh Yasu seafood sourced from the market every morning, fragrant Yasu robatayaki grilled to perfection before your eyes, and a wide selection of carefully chosen Yasu Japanese sake from all over the country. In this article, we will provide specific information to help you have an even more fulfilling time, focusing on how to choose the right private room for your needs.

A private room is more than just a space separated from other customers; it holds endless possibilities depending on how you wish to spend your time. Whether you want to enjoy private conversations without worry, ensure a successful business dinner with important clients, or hold a lively Yasu banquet with a large group without disturbing others, the elegant private rooms at Kitano Izakaya are sure to make your wishes come true.

Unsure Which Private Room to Choose?

When choosing an izakaya, the availability of private rooms is a crucial factor for many potential customers. However, do you ever find yourself wondering, Which type of private room should I choose? or What kind of occasion is it best for? The choice can feel even more complex when there are various types of rooms available. Selecting the right private room is a vital element in making the most of your precious time in Yasu.

For instance, during an important company banquet or business dinner in Yasu, you want to avoid being distracted by conversations at the next table, preventing you from focusing on the main topic or interrupting a calm discussion. Similarly, when you want to relax and chat with close friends or family, you might find it hard to truly unwind in an open space where you're conscious of the surrounding gazes and noise. At Kitano Izakaya, we offer a variety of private rooms to meet each of these needs, resolving such potential concerns for our guests.

We have absolute confidence in the quality of our cuisine, from seasonal dishes featuring fresh fish delivered directly from the fishing port to exquisite creations using Shiga's pride, Yasu Omi beef. However, to fully savor these exceptional dishes, a space where you can relax to your heart's content is essential. In this article, we will introduce specific ways to best utilize the unique private rooms at Kitano Izakaya, which will also be very helpful for organizers looking for an izakaya in Yasu. Allow us to assist you in finding the perfect private room for your purpose and occasion.

A Guide to Using Kitano Izakaya's Private Rooms by Occasion

Kitano Izakaya offers several distinct private rooms to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Here, we'll detail the unique charm of each room and its best use, based on specific scenarios. Please choose the perfect private room for your purpose.

For Intimate Conversations with Small Groups

  • Horigotatsu Private Rooms: These rooms with sunken floor seating for 2 to 4 people are perfect for dates with a friend or partner, or a quiet meal for a couple, as you can stretch out your legs and relax comfortably. It's a recommended space for those who want to enjoy a deep conversation without worrying about their surroundings. The warm atmosphere is perfect for chatting leisurely while sipping on Yasu Japanese sake.
  • Semi-Private Seating: While not fully enclosed, these semi-private seats offer a degree of privacy with partitions, making them ideal for more casual get-togethers or when you want to enjoy a meal while still feeling some of the restaurant's lively atmosphere. They are well-suited for a pleasant time spent around a table of Yasu seafood dishes.

For Business Entertainment and Client Dinners

  • Completely Private Rooms (Table Seating): For meals with important clients or dining with superiors and elders, an elegant and calm, completely private room is essential. Our completely private rooms shield you from the sight and sound of other guests, making them perfect for confidential business discussions or for building relationships over a slow meal. You can spend a formal and distinguished time enjoying high-quality cuisine, including our Yasu Omi beef.
  • A Calm, Japanese-Style Space: Private rooms with a pure Japanese-style design are particularly effective when you want your clients to experience the traditional beauty and sophistication of Japan. In this relaxing space, you can fully enjoy the delicate flavors of fish direct from the port and the fragrant aroma of Yasu robatayaki. It is a space that strongly supports the success of your business entertainment.

For Lively Banquets with Large Groups

  • Spacious Private Room for Buyouts: For large gatherings in Yasu such as company year-end and New Year parties, departmental get-togethers, or reunions with friends, our spacious private rooms available for exclusive use are ideal. As an izakaya in Yasu that can be privately booked, we offer a space that can accommodate up to 30 guests. You can celebrate without worrying about your surroundings, creating a banquet with a sense of unity. We also offer numerous Yasu banquet courses to suit various group sizes and budgets, making it a reliable choice for event organizers.
  • Smoking-Permitted Rooms: For those looking for a smoking-friendly izakaya in Yasu, you can dine with peace of mind. Smoking is permitted in some of our private rooms, so even if there are smokers in your group, everyone can enjoy conversation and the meal together without having to leave their seats. Please feel free to inquire when making a reservation.

Practical Steps: Tips for Booking a Private Room at Kitano Izakaya

To ensure you can secure and smoothly use the private room that best suits your needs, here are some practical steps and things to confirm when making a reservation. Keeping these points in mind will make your experience on the day even more wonderful.

Your Booking Checklist

  1. Clarify the Number of Guests and Purpose: First, decide on the number of people and the purpose of your visit (e.g., a date, business entertainment, a meal with friends, a company banquet). This is the first and most important criterion for choosing a room.
  2. Specify Your Preferred Room Type: If you have a preference for a specific type of room—such as horigotatsu, table seating, a completely private room, a semi-private room, or a large hall for groups—please state it clearly when booking. As your go-to izakaya in Yasu, this helps us propose the most suitable space for you.
  3. Confirm Smoking Preference: If there are smokers in your party, please be sure to mention that you require a smoking-permitted room or ask about our policies as a smoking-friendly izakaya in Yasu. This ensures all guests can have a comfortable time.
  4. Discuss Budget and Course Menus: If you are considering a Yasu banquet course, discussing your approximate budget and food preferences in advance will make ordering on the day much smoother. We have a diverse range of options, including seasonal courses featuring fresh fish from the port and luxurious courses where you can savor Yasu Omi beef.
  5. Inquire About Private Bookings: If you are planning an event for a large group, a company function, or a special party, be sure to ask if it's possible to book the venue as a private-party izakaya in Yasu, and confirm the availability and conditions of rooms that can be exclusively reserved.

Advice for a Smooth Reservation Process

  • Book Early: Desired private rooms can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, holidays, and during the busy year-end and New Year party seasons. We highly recommend booking as far in advance as possible. As a popular pub near Yasu Station, we serve many customers, so please contact us early.
  • Calling is Recommended for Consultations: If you have questions that aren't answered on our website, specific requests, or things you'd like to discuss, calling us directly is the most reliable way to get information. We can provide detailed proposals for the best private rooms and Yasu banquet plans tailored to your specific situation. As an izakaya that supports event organizers, we will do our utmost to lighten your burden.
  • Communicate Special Requests: If you have any special requests, such as allergy accommodations, birthday surprises, or decorations, please let us know when you book. Our entire staff will strive to meet your expectations as much as possible.

Conclusion: Create Lasting Memories in a Private Room at Kitano Izakaya

At Kitano Izakaya in Yasu, we promise to provide a special and memorable time for our guests, serving fresh fish delivered directly from the port each morning, exquisite dishes made with Shiga's pride, Yasu Omi beef, Yasu robatayaki grilled by skilled chefs, and carefully selected Yasu Japanese sake from across the nation. In particular, our diverse range of private rooms will beautifully enhance any occasion, from intimate conversations with a small group to important business dinners and lively Yasu banquets with large parties.

We hope that by using the tips on choosing and booking a private room introduced in this article, you will find the perfect space for your needs. Located conveniently within walking distance from Yasu Station, we invite you to experience our exquisite cuisine and comfortable private spaces. Once you step inside, you are sure to be captivated by its charm.

At Kitano Izakaya, we strive every day to fulfill the wishes of each and every customer who thinks, This is the kind of restaurant I was looking for. The next time you are searching for an izakaya in Yasu, please consider one of our private rooms. Our entire staff sincerely looks forward to welcoming you and supporting your precious moments in the best way possible.

Voices

カウンターでいただきました。 えびマヨや琵琶マスのお造り、目の前で焼いてくださる旬のお野菜の炉ばた焼が香ばしくて絶品でした! 店員さんがとても親切で、居心地もよい素敵なお店です。 帰り際に毎回いただける手作りふりかけが 家族みんな大好きです!

靖子 ★★★★★ 2 か月前

接客が丁寧で好感持てる。 料理も美しく、提供も丁寧でもちろん全部美味しい。 たまたまかもしれないが、厨房含め女性中心に運営されてるのかな。どうでもいいことかもしれないけど。

T Echigo ★★★★★ 2 か月前

安くて美味しくて雰囲気も良かった。欠点は立地が悪いくらいなので、近くまで来たらオススメです!😁

ああ ★★★★★ 5 か月前

入り口で迷ってたら すぐにお出迎えしてくれて 気持ちが良かったです。 どのメニューも美味しそうなのと お通しきゅうりとお味噌も美味しすぎました!!! なんといってもすずちゃんが最高の接客してくれて丁寧で可愛くて 美味しくビール呑めました。 またいきます。

まーちゃそそそ ★★★★★ 6 か月前

お店も清潔感がかり、気取らないけど接客は丁寧なところが良かった。もちろん味もボリュームもよし!

やまもとたかよ ★★★★☆ 2 年前

木曜日に行きましたがお店はお客さんで賑わっていました。 漁港直結の今朝獲れのお刺身は新鮮で美味しかったしキレイな盛り付けにテンション上がりました。 人気のポテサラはたっぷりのいくらと、とびこのプチプチ感がたまりませんでした。 ホッケも肉厚で美味しかったです。 帰り際にお店の方から小袋に入ったふりかけのお土産をいただきました。 一つ一つメッセージも書かれてて嬉しかったです。 とっても満足な時間を過ごせました。 ぜひまた行きたいと思いました。

さお ★★★★★ 2 年前

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Autumn seasonal robata and new local sake are now available.

Open daily from 17:00; last order: food 23:00 / drinks 23:30.

Store

Closed now
Name
Robata & Sake Uomaru Yasu
Address
1-6-1 Kitano, Yasu, Shiga 520-2361
Tel
077-596-3366
Hours
Daily 17:00–24:00 (L.O. food 23:00 / drinks 23:30)
Access
3 min walk from JR Yasu Station
Seats
45 seats / 13 counter, 12 table, 8 private room, 12 terrace / private room for up to 8 / private hire for 20–30 (one floor or whole restaurant) / smoking permitted throughout
Pay
Cash, cards, QR payments (PayPay). 5% service charge (waived on course orders)
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Exterior of Uomaru Yasu, with its wooden "Robata & Sake Uomaru" sign and terrace seats made from red beer crates

Get in touch

HoursDaily 17:00–24:00 (L.O. food 23:00 / drinks 23:30)

Private rooms, banquet courses and full-venue bookings are easiest to arrange by phone — tell us your date, party size and budget and our staff will help.

Book a seat online (24h)

FAQ

What are your opening hours?
Open daily 17:00–24:00 (last order: food 23:00 / drinks 23:30). We do not serve lunch. Closed irregularly (no fixed closing day).
Can I make a reservation?
Yes. Especially on weekends and busy hours, we recommend booking in advance by phone or web.
What do you recommend?
Straw-grilled bonito from Kochi, straw-grilled Omi beef, and fresh sashimi from the port. Seasonal robatayaki is also popular.
Do you have private rooms?
Yes, we have private rooms for relaxed dining, ideal for meals and banquets. Please inquire for details.
How do I get there from Yasu Station?
About a 3-minute walk from JR Yasu Station, at 1-6-1 Kitano.
What kind of sake do you have?
A wide range of carefully selected sake from across Japan, including Shiga local brews to match your dishes.
What payment methods can I use?
Cash, major credit cards (VISA/Mastercard/JCB/AMEX/Diners) and QR code payments (PayPay). E-money is not accepted.
Is it comfortable for solo diners?
Yes, our lively counter seats are perfect for solo guests to enjoy the cooking right before them.
Can you host banquets or groups?
Yes. We offer banquet courses and private rooms, and can arrange full-venue bookings. Please consult us.
Can I take out food?
We are sorry, but we do not offer takeout.

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