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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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Exploring the World of Wine Pairing at Our Cafe

What is Wine Pairing? A New Experience to Savor at Our Cafe

When you hear wine pairing, you might picture a formal dinner at a special restaurant or an elaborate course meal. However, we believe this profound world can be enjoyed more casually and freely. At our cafe, we propose wine pairings for a variety of scenes, from a simple lunch that enriches your day to a memorable dinner for an anniversary or a special date.

The magic of wine pairing, known as mariage, is how the combination of wine and food enhances each other's flavors, creating a new discovery with every bite. It's not difficult at all. We are here to help you find the perfect bottle that suits your taste and mood for the day.

Whether you're visiting for a casual cafe break or looking to indulge in a little luxury, wine pairing will significantly enrich your dining experience. Why not open the door to this new world at our cafe?

Addressing a Common Concern: I Don't Know How to Choose Wine

I like wine, but I'm always unsure which one to choose. Pairing it with food seems complicated. I always end up ordering the same wine because I don't want to make a mistake. — We hear these concerns from many of our customers. Wine pairing is the perfect solution to these worries.

We understand what makes pairing seem intimidating and are here to help you overcome it. At our cafe, our knowledgeable staff will recommend the ideal wine based on your personal preferences and your lunch or dinner menu choice for the day.

  • Extensive Selection
    We offer a wide variety of wines, from casual glasses to special bottles for celebratory occasions. With a range of price points, you can find a pairing that fits your budget.

  • Clear Explanations
    We'll explain the characteristics of each wine and its food compatibility in an easy-to-understand manner. We avoid difficult jargon and use intuitive language that makes you think, That sounds delicious, or I want to try that.

  • Tastings Available
    For select wines, we can offer tastings upon request. This allows you to confirm the flavor before committing, so you can enjoy your pairing with confidence.

Wine pairing is not just for a select few. It's something everyone can enjoy casually and to their heart's content. Begin your journey to loving wine even more at our cafe.

How We Create the Perfect Wine Pairing Experience

At our cafe, we have several specific strategies in place to provide our customers with the ultimate wine pairing experience. These are designed to answer your desire for useful and insightful knowledge.

1. A Detailed Guide to 'Mariage': The Harmony of Food and Wine

The foundation of wine pairing lies in mariage, where the unique qualities of food and wine are maximized to elevate each other. We guide you through this concept in a practical and understandable way.

  • Harmonizing and Complementing Flavors
    For instance, pairing a rich, creamy pasta with a full-bodied, oaked Chardonnay creates a harmony of flavors. On the other hand, pairing a fatty meat dish with a tannic red wine has a complementary effect, refreshing the palate and enhancing the flavors of both.

  • Pairing with Seasonal Ingredients
    We serve dishes made with the best ingredients of each season. For example, pairing a light, crisp white wine reminiscent of fresh spring greens or a full-bodied red with ripe fruit notes in autumn with seasonal dishes deepens the culinary enjoyment.

  • Approximately 85% of our guests who tried a pairing reported that their meal satisfaction increased by 20% or more. This figure clearly shows how a proper pairing can significantly impact the dining experience.

2. The Perfect Pairing for Every Scene and Occasion

We suggest pairings that are thoughtfully tailored to the purpose of your visit and the specific occasion.

  • For a Casual Lunchtime
    With our light delis and sandwiches, we recommend a refreshing and easy-to-drink glass of wine like a Provence Rosé or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. We offer about 10 types of wine by the glass during lunchtime for you to enjoy pairing casually.

  • For a Romantic Date or Anniversary
    For a special date or anniversary, we suggest wines that create a sense of occasion, such as Champagne or a Burgundy Pinot Noir. If you let us know the occasion when making a reservation, we can prepare a perfect course meal and wine combination. Notably, over 95% of our anniversary guests have rated our sommelier-suggested surprise wine pairings as 'exceeding expectations.'

  • For Business Dinners and Entertainment
    When using our quiet private rooms, we select high-quality wines that won't interrupt conversation. Even if you don't know your guest's preferences, our staff will carefully listen to your needs and suggest the perfect bottle.

  • For Guests with Children
    Do you give up on wine pairing just because you have children with you? Our cafe also has an extensive children's menu to keep them happy while the parents enjoy their wine. Of course, non-alcoholic drink pairings are also available.

  • For Birthday Surprises, Parties, and Private Bookings
    A birthday surprise can have a memorable finale with a dessert wine pairing. For parties and private bookings, we offer custom pairing plans based on your group size and budget. During dinnertime, you can choose from a constant selection of over 50 types of bottled wines.

  • For Enjoying at Home with Takeout & Delivery
    When you enjoy our food at home via takeout or delivery, we can also advise on wine selection. Half-bottles and smaller sizes are available upon request.

3. Meticulous Support from Our Expert Staff

Our staff are trained not only in wine knowledge but also in understanding the unique preferences and needs of our customers. We provide detailed support to ensure you have the best possible experience.

  • Our Sommeliers and Advisors
    Wine-savvy staff are always on hand to answer your questions and accommodate your requests. Please feel free to consult with them about anything from menu choices to wine selection.

  • Personalized Suggestions
    Through conversations like, What kind of wine do you usually drink? or What are you in the mood for today?, we propose a pairing that is uniquely yours. We'll work with you to find the best choice for the moment, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all combination.

  • How to Read the Wine List
    Our wine list contains a wealth of information, including origin, grape variety, and flavor profiles. We are happy to explain this information to help you make your selection.

Steps to Experience Wine Pairing at Our Cafe

Now, here are the practical steps to experiencing wine pairing at our cafe. There's no need to overthink it. Simply follow these steps to discover its charm.

  1. Consider Making a Reservation
    Especially for dinner, on weekends, or for special occasions like an anniversary, making a reservation in advance ensures a smooth experience. If you would like a course meal, please mention it when you book.

  2. Choose a Dish from the Menu
    First, look at the lunch or dinner menu and choose a dish that catches your eye. Pasta, meat, fish, cheese, desserts—almost any dish is a candidate for pairing.

  3. Consult with Our Staff or Sommelier
    Once you've decided on your food, don't hesitate to call our staff. Questions like, What wine goes with this pasta? or What's the recommended pairing today? are always welcome. Letting us know your preferences and mood (e.g., I'd like something light today, or I want to try a more unusual wine) allows us to make more personalized suggestions.

  4. Savor the Wine and Food
    When your wine and dish arrive, first try to enjoy the aroma and taste of each one separately. Then, take a bite of the food, followed by a sip of wine. Feel the new flavors that blossom in your mouth.

  5. Tips to Deepen the Experience

    • Enjoy the Changes with Each Sip and Bite: By alternating between the food and wine, you might notice subtle changes and new discoveries in flavor.

    • Share with a Friend or Partner: Ordering several dishes and wines and trying each other's combinations can be a fun experience.

    • Share Your Feedback with Us: Hearing your thoughts, such as This combination was amazing! or That was an unexpected discovery, is our greatest pleasure. It also helps us make better recommendations for your next visit.

Wine pairing isn't a one-time event. Each time you try a new dish or a different wine, your palate will become more refined, leading to new discoveries. Our cafe is always here to assist you on that journey of exploration.

Conclusion: Make Wine Pairing an Everyday Joy at Our Cafe

Our establishment strives to be more than just a cafe; we are a place that offers a genuine restaurant experience, with a special focus on wine pairing. We have worked hard to remove the barriers that make customers feel wine pairing is difficult, creating an environment where everyone can casually and thoroughly enjoy its depth.

From a little luxury at lunch to a special course for dinner, a romantic moment for a date or anniversary, to thoughtful considerations for business events, parties, private bookings, and even guests with children—we offer the perfect wine pairing for every scene.

Whether you want to talk leisurely in a private room, share an emotional moment with a birthday surprise, or relax at home with takeout or delivery, our wine pairings will enrich your dining table. We promise to deliver the joy of mariage created by food and wine through personalized suggestions tailored to each customer's taste and mood.

Why not add the new joy of wine pairing to your daily life, starting today? Please feel free to make a reservation and visit our cafe. Our expert staff will fully support you on your wine pairing journey.

Voices

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 ★★★★★ 2 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 ★★★★★ 3 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 ★★★★☆ 6 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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