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Fresh fish & robatayaki in Minami-Kusatsu — Uomaru Fresh Fish & Robatayaki Minami-Kusatsu

SeafoodRobataStraw-grilledBonitoOmi beefSakeLocal sakePrivate hireSashimiBanquets

Our story

Counter seats at Uomaru Minami-Kusatsu facing the open kitchen and straw-grilling hearth, with the blackboard listing straw-grilled bonito Shrimp cream spring rolls Potato salad with salmon roe Interior of Uomaru Minami-Kusatsu with counter and table seats, sake bottles on the shelves and a fish-print frame on the wall

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 Minami-Kusatsu.

03

Seafood & Sashimi

Fresh fish shipped straight from the port, finished into sashimi by skilled hands. Enjoy the seafood of Minami-Kusatsu 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 Minami-Kusatsu.

05

Banquets & Private Hire

Banquet courses with free-flow drinks, and full-venue bookings for 35–45 guests. Steps from Minami-Kusatsu Station — ideal for company parties and gatherings.

How to enjoy Robata

Robata Story

01

Head for the counter where the straw burns

One to two minutes from the east exit of Minami-Kusatsu Station, at Liberty Minami-Kusatsu 2F. From the counter seats facing the straw grill you can watch the bonito wrapped in flame.

02

Start with the medium, one slice at a time

Straw-grilled bonito starts at 1,490 yen for the medium, about two portions. Take the first slice unseasoned and taste the smoke held in the surface.

03

With the large, change as you go

Work through the condiments, rock salt and citrus. The large, about four portions at 2,480 yen, gives you enough to keep shifting the flavor to the last piece.

04

Smoke, drink, and lose track of time

All 45 seats allow smoking, and guests under 20 cannot enter. We suggest Shiga sake, dry through sweet, to sit alongside the straw-grilled plates.

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

¥5,500 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Duck Charcoal-Grill

¥6,600 (tax incl.)

10 dishes

Omi Beef Charcoal-Grill

¥7,700 (tax incl.)

7 dishes

Omi Beef Luxury Sukiyaki

¥11,000 (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.

Minami-Kusatsu

Minami-Kusatsu izakaya Near Minami-Kusatsu Station Smoking allowed Smoker friendly Minami-Kusatsu private hire Banquets Noji izakaya Straw-grill counter Minami-Kusatsu seafood Minami-Kusatsu sake Robatayaki Minami-Kusatsu Business dining Liberty Minami-Kusatsu Free-flow drinks

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Scenes

Dates & anniversaries

A calm Japanese space for a special evening. Pair fresh sashimi with local Shiga sake in Minami-Kusatsu.

Business dining

Calm seating steps from Minami-Kusatsu Station for relaxed business dining. Straw-grilled Omi beef and carefully selected sake leave a strong impression.

Banquets & groups

Eight banquet courses with 2 hours of free-flow drinks from ¥5,500 (tax incl.), plus full-venue bookings for 35–45 guests for company parties in Minami-Kusatsu.

After work

Steps from Minami-Kusatsu Station — ideal after work. Open daily from 17:00 until 24:00 (food L.O. 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.

Gatherings & reunions

A varied menu for gatherings and reunions, steps from Minami-Kusatsu Station. Smoking is permitted at all seats, so guests under 20 cannot enter.

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A Special Day in Minami-Kusatsu with Omi Beef: The Secret to Perfect Entertainment & Anniversaries

You want to create a memorable time for someone important. Whether it's a business dinner that could determine success or an anniversary to deepen bonds with family and friends, everyone wishes to choose the 'perfect place' when planning such a special day in Minami-Kusatsu.

At our restaurant, we help you beautifully adorn your special occasions with carefully selected ingredients and warm hospitality. We are especially proud to offer our guests the opportunity to fully savor the profound charm of 'Omi Beef,' one of Japan's top three wagyu brands.

With so many options available in Minami-Kusatsu, do you ever find yourself wondering which restaurant to choose?

You might feel anxious, wondering, 'Will my guest truly be pleased?', 'Will it live up to expectations?', or 'I don't want this to be just another ordinary gathering.'

Choosing a restaurant can be particularly stressful for important business dinners or once-in-a-lifetime anniversaries. The quality of the food is crucial, but so are the atmosphere, service, and the extent to which the venue can accommodate individual requests. Only when all these elements come together can a truly satisfying experience be created.

Savor the Essence of Omi Beef: The Star of Your Minami-Kusatsu Entertainment & Anniversaries

We proudly recommend 'Omi Beef,' a true treasure of Shiga Prefecture. Its fine-grained texture, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and elegant sweetness and aroma create a truly blissful taste. For entertaining important guests or celebrating a memorable anniversary, we promise an unparalleled luxury.

  • Rare Cuts and Diverse Cooking Methods: We offer various cuts of Omi Beef, prepared in ways that maximize their unique characteristics. Enjoy seared beef, steak, shabu-shabu, sushi, and more, all served in their most delicious state.
  • A Feast for the Senses: The beautiful marbling of Omi Beef is a visual delight. Our chefs' artful presentation makes each dish even more special.
  • The Skill of Chefs Who Know Omi Beef: Our experienced chefs bring out the unique character of Omi Beef and deliver it to your table in perfect condition. We can also make suggestions based on your preferences and the occasion.

A Blissful Experience in Minami-Kusatsu: Enhanced by Straw-Grilling and Seafood

Alongside Omi Beef, another of our restaurant's proud specialties is 'Warayaki,' or straw-grilling. Fresh seafood, delivered directly from Kochi Prefecture, is seared over a high-temperature straw fire, concentrating its unique smoky aroma and umami. The flames and smoke right before your eyes stimulate your senses of sight and smell, making your meal even more memorable.

The Joy of Straw-Grilling: A Treat for All Five Senses

  • Fresh Fish Direct from Kochi: We carefully select the freshest seasonal seafood to serve straw-grilled. The flavor is simple yet profound, highlighting the natural taste of the ingredients.
  • A Harmony of Aroma and Umami: The scent of the straw enhances the fish's umami, creating a unique flavor you won't find elsewhere. You'll be amazed by the smoky aroma that unfolds with every bite.
  • A Variety of Seafood Dishes in Minami-Kusatsu: In addition to straw-grilling, we offer a wide range of dishes featuring fresh seafood, such as sashimi, simmered dishes, and grilled items. They pair perfectly with our drinks.

A Premium Space and Service in Minami-Kusatsu, Perfect for Entertainment & Anniversaries

Because this is a place for spending precious time, we focus not only on the food but also on the space and service. We offer a variety of private rooms to suit your needs, ensuring you can enjoy your time in complete privacy.

Creating Special Moments in a Private Space

  • A Full Range of Private Rooms: We have numerous completely private rooms where you can talk at ease without worrying about being overheard, perfect for business meetings, dinners, or formal introductions. Rooms are available for both small and large groups.
  • Private Bookings for Up to 45 Guests in Minami-Kusatsu: We can accommodate private bookings for up to 45 people, making us ideal for special large gatherings like company farewell parties, grand banquets, or reunions. Entire floor buyouts are also possible, so please feel free to inquire for details.
  • Attentive Hospitality: We strive to provide meticulous service tailored to each customer's needs. From explaining the dishes and suggesting drinks to helping with surprise celebrations, please don't hesitate to let us know your requests.

The Best of Both Worlds: The Casual Vibe of a Minami-Kusatsu Izakaya and the Quality of a Specialty Restaurant

While we serve authentic Omi Beef and straw-grilled dishes, our restaurant also has the relaxed atmosphere of a 'Minami-Kusatsu Izakaya' where you can unwind. We maintain the quality of a specialty establishment while creating an environment where a wide range of customers can feel comfortable visiting.

  • Extensive Drink Menu: We offer a wide selection of beverages, including sake and shochu, as well as wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. You can also enjoy pairing them with your meal.
  • Varied Menu Selection: In addition to main dishes like Omi Beef and straw-grilled items, we have a well-balanced menu that includes side dishes made with seasonal vegetables and finishing rice dishes. You'll discover something new with every visit.
  • Course Proposals to Fit Your Budget: We offer various course menus to suit your budget and occasion. Please feel free to consult with us, and we will propose the perfect plan for you.

How to Choose a Plan for Your Special Day: Minami-Kusatsu Entertainment & Anniversary Guide

To make your special day perfect, our 'Entertainment & Anniversary Plans' are meticulously designed. We promise a smooth and highly satisfying experience from reservation to the day of your visit.

A Checklist for Finding the Perfect Plan

  1. Clarify the Number of Guests and Purpose: The ideal private room and course will differ depending on your purpose, whether it's a small business dinner, a large private banquet, or an anniversary celebration. Please let us know the number of guests and the occasion in advance.
  2. Share Your Target Budget: Depending on your budget, we can suggest various plans, such as an Omi Beef course, a course featuring straw-grilled dishes, or a seafood-centric course. Please don't hesitate to tell us your desired budget.
  3. Inform Us of Preferences and Allergies: Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, allergies, or specific requests (e.g., 'more Omi Beef,' 'feature the straw-grilled dishes,' etc.). We will do our best to accommodate you.
  4. Discuss Surprises or Special Touches: If you'd like special arrangements such as an anniversary cake, a bouquet of flowers, or a message plate, please feel free to consult with us. Let's create a memorable day together.
  5. Booking in Advance: We recommend booking early, especially if you require a private room or a full buyout, as availability can be limited on weekends and during peak seasons. We may not be able to accommodate last-minute requests.

A Practical Guide to Creating the Perfect Special Day in Minami-Kusatsu

Here are the specific steps to ensure a smooth process from reservation to your visit. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  1. Inquiry & Consultation: First, please contact us by phone or through our website's inquiry form with your desired date, number of guests, and purpose (e.g., business entertainment, anniversary). We will also ask for a general idea of your budget and food preferences at this stage.
  2. Plan Proposal: Based on the information you provide, we will propose the most suitable course, private room, or buyout plan. You can choose from several options, such as a course centered on Omi Beef, a course featuring the straw-grilling experience, or a course with abundant Minami-Kusatsu seafood.
  3. Confirmation and Finalization: Once you are satisfied with our proposal, we will confirm the final details, including the menu, drinks, room size, and any surprise arrangements, and then finalize your reservation. If you are requesting a private booking for 45 people in Minami-Kusatsu, we can also discuss the layout.
  4. Arrival on the Day: Please arrive at your reserved time. Our experienced staff will greet you with a warm smile and guide you to your private room or designated table.
  5. Enjoy Your Meal and Time: Please enjoy our carefully selected Omi Beef, aromatic straw-grilled dishes, and fresh Minami-Kusatsu seafood to your heart's content. We will attentively adjust to your pace, from the timing of the food service to additional drink orders. If you have any requests or concerns, please do not hesitate to speak with our staff.

We are always preparing with dedication to provide you with the best possible experience. We will do our utmost to ensure your special day in Minami-Kusatsu becomes an unforgettable memory.

A Special Moment with Omi Beef in Minami-Kusatsu

To all who wish to create the perfect occasion with someone special here in Minami-Kusatsu.

At our restaurant, you can fully enjoy the profound flavor of Japan's celebrated 'Omi Beef' as our centerpiece, complemented by the dynamic spectacle of 'Warayaki' straw-grilling and the freshest 'Minami-Kusatsu seafood' of the season. We are prepared to accommodate every special moment, from business dinners crucial for success to anniversaries with family and friends, and even large banquets with 'private bookings for 45 people in Minami-Kusatsu.'

Enjoy your own private time in our high-quality private rooms. We promise memorable hospitality with attentive and detailed service. By combining a refined atmosphere with the approachable feel of a 'Minami-Kusatsu Izakaya,' we aspire to be a place that makes everyone want to return.

Please visit us. The exquisite culinary experience crafted from Omi Beef and our warm hospitality will surely deliver an impression that exceeds your expectations. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you.

Voices

滋賀県・南草津にある、ナデシコグループの 魚業態のお店。魚料理と日本酒を楽しめる 居酒屋です。 看板はカツオの藁焼き。しっかりと藁の香りが 立った仕上がりで、香ばしさとカツオの旨味を 存分に楽しめます。この香りだけで日本酒が 進む、看板メニューにふさわしい一品です。 日本酒の品揃えも豊富なので、魚料理に 合わせて色々な銘柄を試せるのが嬉しい ところ。魚と日本酒の組み合わせをじっくり 楽しみたい方にぴったりの構成です。 スタッフさんの対応も良く、気持ちよく 過ごせます。 南草津エリアで魚を肴に日本酒を飲みたい夜に、 頼りになる一軒です。 【利用シーン】南草津での食事、魚料理と 日本酒を楽しみたい時、藁焼きを食べたい時、 仕事帰りの一杯、友人との食事。 【アクセス】滋賀県草津市・南草津駅から 徒歩圏内。

Shota H ★★★★★ 2 か月前

ビワマスがすごく美味しかったです✨ お野菜のお料理も美味しく、こちらからの要望にも快く応えて下さり、気持ちの良い接客で嬉しかったです! またきます😊

のりこにしおか ★★★★★ 3 か月前

料理は美味しかったです。カツオの藁焼きと粗塩はとてもマッチしていました。 喫煙できるお店のようで、幸い周りには喫煙者いなかったので良かったです。 サービス料?が別に取られていました。

omot ★★★★★ 5 か月前

居酒屋なので静かに飲むには向かないが、大きな店では無いので我慢できないレベルではない。何より店員さんがテキパキ笑顔で対応してくれるのが嬉しいです。日本酒も地酒豊富で大満足。南草津駅で時間が有るならオススメです。あいみちゃん、なかじーさん、ユーゴさん、アサヒさん、ありがとう。

林貴之 ★★★★★ 4 か月前

とても繁盛していたので、予約して来店するのがおすすめだと思います。 スタッフの方々の接客も良かったです。食べ終わった皿なども定期的に下げてくだったので、皿で机のスペースがなくなることもありませんでした。 料理もとても美味しかったです。 どの料理もお酒に合う味付けでお酒が進みました。 魚と店名にあるだけあって特に海鮮料理は安定して美味しいと思いました。 帰る際にはふりかけをもらいました。後日食べましたが、とても美味しかったです。 草津駅の近くの魚丸にも行かせてもらっていますが、南草津店ならではのメニューもあって楽しかったです。 ウオマルだと草津店ばかり行っていたので、こちらのお店にも再度来店したいと思いました。

じょんす ★★★★☆ 7 か月前

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Autumn seasonal robata and new local sake are now available.

Open daily from 17:00; last orders — food 23:00, drinks 23:30.

Store

Closed now
Name
Uomaru Fresh Fish & Robatayaki Minami-Kusatsu
Address
1-7-21 Noji, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-0059
Tel
077-561-5133
Hours
Daily 17:00–24:00 (food L.O. 23:00 / drinks 23:30)
Access
1–2 min walk from JR Minami-Kusatsu Station
Seats
45 seats (no private rooms) / full-venue bookings for 35–45 guests / smoking permitted at all seats (guests under 20 cannot enter)
Pay
Cash, cards, QR payments (PayPay). 5% service charge (waived on course orders)
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Exterior entrance of Uomaru Minami-Kusatsu, with the Uomaru logo on the wooden facade and lattice windows

Get in touch

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

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 orders: food 23:00, drinks 23:30). We do not serve lunch. Closed irregularly (about once every three months).
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?
We do not have private rooms. All 45 seats are counter and table seating, including counter seats facing the straw grill.
How do I get there from Minami-Kusatsu Station?
About a 1–2 minute walk from JR Minami-Kusatsu Station, at 1-7-21 Noji, Kusatsu.
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 can arrange full-venue bookings for 35–45 guests. Please consult us.
Can I take out food?
We are very sorry, but we do not offer takeout at this restaurant.

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