What should I order at Sakai?
Sakai
Yakitori
Mentioned multiple times as amazing and a must-try, highlighting it as a standout grilled dish typical of an izakaya.
Fried Chicken / Karaage Chicken
Frequently praised for its deliciousness and recommended repeatedly, indicating it is a popular and well-prepared dish at the restaurant.
Tofu / Deep Fried Tofu / Agedashi
Agedashi tofu is described as extremely soft and tasty, and deep fried tofu is recommended, showing the restaurant excels at tofu dishes.
Eggplant with Miso Glaze
Called scrumptious and a must-have by several reviewers, marking it as a unique and flavorful dish not to miss.
Grilled Udon
Noted as delicious, this dish is highlighted among the grilled items, showcasing the variety of grilled offerings.
Bacon Potatoes
Described as delicious and recommended, indicating it is a favored side or smaller plate.
Grilled Salted Wings
Praised by reviewers for taste, suggesting it as a popular grilled option.
Pork Stew (Motsuni)
Specifically mentioned as loved, indicating it is a hearty and well-liked dish on the menu.
Clams in Sake
A personal favorite and praised for authenticity and flavor, highlighting the quality seafood options.
Gyozas
Mentioned as delicious, indicating well-made Japanese dumplings that complement the menu.
Ginkgo Nuts
Especially recommended to order everything on the menu with emphasis on ginkgo nuts, showing it as a special or unique item.
Location details
大湯7923-2, Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano, 389-2502, JP
Open in Google MapsHours
| Monday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 6 to 9:30 PM |
About Sakai
Sakai is an izakaya restaurant in Nozawaonsen, Shimotakai District, Nagano. Reviewers consistently praise its yakitori, fried chicken, and other small plates, along with a cosy atmosphere and warm, welcoming owners. It is known for dinner service, accepts reservations, and is popular with solo diners and groups. The price range is ¥2,000–3,000, and drinks include beer, wine, sake, and other alcohol.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Frequently asked questions
What is Sakai known for?
Sakai is especially known for yakitori, with reviewers also calling out fried chicken, grilled salted wings, and a wide range of small plates. People also mention the cosy izakaya setting and the owners’ warm service, which make the meal feel personal and relaxed.
What dishes are most recommended at Sakai?
The most frequently recommended dishes are yakitori, karaage chicken, eggplant miso, grilled salted wings, pork stew (motsuni), and clams in sake. Reviewers also praise the grilled udon, bacon potatoes, and agedashi for being especially tasty and well made.
What is the atmosphere like at Sakai?
Sakai has a small, rustic, pub-style izakaya feel that reviewers describe as very cosy and welcoming. It suits solo diners, couples, and groups, including larger tables, though people note it can get busy and service is still attentive even when crowded.
Is Sakai good value, and what is the price range?
Sakai is priced at ¥2,000–3,000, and reviewers often describe it as reasonably priced or good value for the quality of the food. A few note that Nozawaonsen is not the cheapest area, but they still felt the dishes and service justified the cost.
Should I book ahead or expect a wait at Sakai?
Booking ahead is often recommended, especially for larger groups, because reviewers mention waiting a long time without a reservation. Some people did walk in successfully, but others suggest aiming for a later dinner around 8pm or making a reservation in advance.
Restaurants like Sakai in Nozawaonsen
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