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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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Enjoying a Worry-Free Banquet at Noji Izakaya

Enjoy a Truly Relaxing Banquet Time for Everyone at Noji Izakaya

Let's go out for something delicious today! When making plans to dine out with such exciting anticipation, everyone likely shares a common joy. Banquets at lively izakayas, in particular, are special times to soothe daily fatigue and deepen bonds with loved ones. However, some people may feel uneasy about choosing a restaurant or menu due to allergies. It would be a shame for an enjoyable moment to be overshadowed by worries, wouldn't it? At Noji Izakaya, located here in Minami-Kusatsu, we are committed to providing meticulous support for guests with allergies, driven by our desire for all customers to truly enjoy their meals.

Noji Izakaya, located in the heart of Minami-Kusatsu's bustling district, prides itself on serving exquisite dishes made with fresh seafood, Omi beef, and straw-grilled bonito delivered directly from Kochi. We understand the anxieties our customers may have and strive daily to provide as much peace of mind as possible. This article will specifically introduce how Noji Izakaya welcomes customers with allergies and provides safe and enjoyable dining opportunities. We hope our efforts will offer reassurance to everyone planning a banquet in Minami-Kusatsu with family, friends, or colleagues.

Allergy Concerns When Dining Out: Challenges Faced at Minami-Kusatsu Banquets

Dining out, especially at an izakaya where various ingredients are used, can cause considerable anxiety for those with allergies. The substances that cause allergies (allergens) are diverse; in addition to the seven specified raw materials like wheat, eggs, dairy, buckwheat, peanuts, shrimp, and crab, various other foods can also be allergens. The severity of allergic reactions also varies from person to person, and even a tiny amount can cause severe symptoms, making careful restaurant selection essential.

For example, with seafood dishes like Noji Izakaya's proud Assorted Sashimi Platter, one must pay attention not only to the types of seafood used but also to the ingredients in the accompanying condiments and soy sauce. Furthermore, cooking methods such as deep-frying and grilling carry the risk of cross-contamination, where allergens are unintentionally mixed in by using the same fryer or cooking utensils. Even with Omi Beef dishes, known for their rich flavor and juiciness, it is crucial to check that the marinades and sauces do not contain allergens. When enjoying a large Minami-Kusatsu banquet, you would surely want to avoid being the only one careful about your meal and feeling self-conscious around others. Our customers wish to enjoy delicious food with peace of mind and engage in lively conversation. What solutions does Noji Izakaya offer to these customers?

  • Concerns about izakaya menus using various ingredients
  • Necessity of confirming allergens in seasonings and condiments for dishes like Assorted Sashimi Platter and Straw-Grilled Bonito from Kochi
  • Risk of cross-contamination in Omi Beef dishes and fried foods
  • The strong desire to enjoy meals at Minami-Kusatsu banquets without allergy worries

Noji Izakaya's Allergy Response: Concrete Solutions

At Noji Izakaya, we implement the following specific measures to ensure customers with allergies can enjoy their meals with peace of mind.

Detailed Interviewing and Preparation at the Time of Reservation

The first step to providing a safe and comfortable experience for our customers is thorough communication from the moment of reservation. At Noji Izakaya, we actively inquire about the presence of allergies when taking reservations by phone or in person. For any allergens reported by customers, we conduct a detailed interview to confirm which ingredients cause reactions and the severity of symptoms. This allows us to thoroughly share information with kitchen staff before your visit and proceed with suggesting and preparing menus that are as allergen-free as possible. For example, there are many aspects that can be adjusted in advance, such as the condiments used for the straw-grilled bonito from Kochi or the contents of the assorted sashimi platter. We believe this prior preparation is the most crucial process for customers to enjoy their Minami-Kusatsu banquet with peace of mind.

Ingredient Verification and Flexible Menu Adjustments

Our menu often features seasonal ingredients, and its content may vary depending on the day's procurement. Therefore, when addressing allergies, we strive for flexible menu adjustments according to customer requests. For example, for our signature Straw-Grilled Bonito from Kochi, we meticulously check the ingredients of the special sauce and condiments, propose allergen-free alternatives, or consider if it can be prepared using a different cooking method. For the Assorted Sashimi Platter, it is also possible to substitute allergenic seafood with other types or exclude them from the platter. Regarding exquisite dishes using Shiga's proud Omi Beef, we carefully verify the seasonings and cooking processes to ensure customers can enjoy them with complete peace of mind. We value individualized service tailored to each customer's situation and strive to offer as many choices as possible.

Thorough Kitchen Management and Staff Information Sharing

In Noji Izakaya's kitchen, we implement thorough hygiene management and information sharing to minimize risks in allergy responses. Allergy information received from customers is reliably communicated to all cooking staff, and dishes are prepared with the utmost care. Measures are taken to prevent cross-contamination, such as segregating ingredient storage, dedicated use of cooking utensils, and diligent washing and sterilization after cooking. For example, when handling ingredients containing specific allergens, extreme caution is exercised to prevent mixing with other ingredients, and cooking utensils are either dedicated or thoroughly cleaned. The staff at Noji Izakaya prioritize customer safety in their daily work. We maintain a constant awareness of potential risks and have a consistent management system from preparation to serving to ensure delicious food is safely provided to our customers.

Consideration for All Customers as a Minami-Kusatsu Smoking-Permitted Izakaya

As a Minami-Kusatsu smoking-permitted izakaya, Noji Izakaya satisfies customers who enjoy smoking while savoring drinks and food. However, some customers who are sensitive to tobacco smoke or have allergies might be concerned about the smoking environment. We strive to provide as much consideration as possible to ensure these customers also have a comfortable stay. For example, if you inform us when making a reservation, we will do our best to flexibly accommodate your request, such as guiding you to seats away from smoking areas or well-ventilated seats within the possible range. Noji Izakaya never forgets to offer meticulous consideration, aiming to create a comfortable space for all customers, both smokers and non-smokers alike, to enjoy their time.

Practical Steps for Enjoying a Worry-Free Banquet at Noji Izakaya

To ensure you can enjoy your Minami-Kusatsu banquet at Noji Izakaya to the fullest, without any allergy concerns, here are some practical steps we kindly ask for your cooperation with.

  1. When making a reservation, please clearly inform us about your allergies by phone.
    By providing as much detail as possible, including specific ingredient names, the amount that causes symptoms, and past reactions, we can provide a more accurate response. Please also inform us of any desired substitute ingredients at this time.
  2. Upon arrival, once seated, please kindly reconfirm your allergies with a staff member.
    Reconfirming with a staff member upon your arrival provides a double-check, ensuring that the information shared during your reservation has been smoothly communicated to the kitchen, thus increasing your peace of mind.
  3. When viewing the menu, if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to ask a staff member.
    If you feel even the slightest bit uneasy, for example, asking, What seasonings are used in this dish? or Does this fried item use eggs?, please feel free to ask our staff. Our staff maintain thorough information sharing to earnestly answer customer questions.
  4. In the unlikely event you feel unwell, please inform a staff member immediately.
    While we take measures to ensure you enjoy your meal with peace of mind, should any allergic symptoms appear, please notify a staff member promptly. We will respond swiftly.

An Unforgettable and Worry-Free Minami-Kusatsu Banquet at Noji Izakaya

Noji Izakaya aspires to be a place where customers with allergies can genuinely enjoy themselves, alongside our proud dishes like straw-grilled bonito from Kochi, assorted sashimi, and Omi beef. In Minami-Kusatsu, we strive daily to be like a 'perching place' where local customers and those visiting from afar can always drop by with peace of mind.

Allergy response is one of our most crucial missions, dedicated to protecting the safety and comfortable dining experience of each customer. From initial consultations and meticulous care in the kitchen to detailed support upon your visit, the entire staff of Noji Izakaya promises to stand by our customers and provide the best possible service. To everyone planning a banquet in Minami-Kusatsu, including those with allergy concerns, please feel free to contact Noji Izakaya. We will alleviate your worries and deliver an unforgettable wonderful time with delicious food and warm hospitality. As a Minami-Kusatsu smoking-permitted izakaya, we sincerely look forward to welcoming everyone, smokers and non-smokers alike, to a space where all can feel comfortable.

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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