Santomi Sango

With a drink in hand and a few unfussy small plates to share, Santomi Sango (三富珊瑚／サントミサンゴ) in Nishi-Asakusa makes a comfortable place to settle in for the evening. This casual izakaya opens at 4 pm, before dusk, so there is time to take things slowly from the early evening.

The menu brings together Okinawan-inspired snacks such as goya champuru, ninjin shirishiri, Okinawan mozuku seaweed and sea-grape salad, with an emphasis on small plates at accessible prices. Other options include Amami peanut miso, a salad of Japanese yam and bacon, and slowly simmered motsu stew, making it easy to order a few dishes that pair well with a drink. For something warming, the assorted oden platter is another option.

Drinks include small bottles of Orion beer and sanpin-cha highballs, alongside a range of labels associated with Okinawa and Amami. The awamori selection includes Sangosho, Kumesen and Kikuno Tsuyu; brown sugar shochu options include Sango, Mankoi and Asahi. There are also plum liqueurs made with brown sugar or shikuwasa, as well as sake and draft beer, offering a range of choices to suit the mood.

Inside, counter seats sit alongside a raised tatami area. Reviewers describe a relaxed atmosphere that suits stopping in for a drink alone. Reviewers also describe the service as warm and welcoming, including for women dining alone, and the relaxed setting can work well for an informal meal while travelling. Payment is cash only, and reservations are possible, so booking ahead is an option for an evening spent taking your time over small plates and drinks.