01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
When the lunch tray lands on the table, it is hard not to stare at the crowded spread: the main fish or meat is flanked by braised bites, fried sides, and an array of small dishes filling every corner. Sakumatei, tucked into Ueno 1-chome, is a down-to-earth izakaya that satisfies hearty midday appetites with unpretentious homestyle cooking. Lunch operates on a pay-first system, offering choices such as the fish-centric Lunch A alongside meat-led sets and revolving daily specials, with free rice up-sizing providing a welcome bonus. From deeply seasoned nikujaga and Saikyo-miso-marinated grilled fish to crisp croquettes, each dish delivers comforting, reliable nourishment to power through the afternoon.
Evenings by the Chalkboard: Seasonal Bites and Drinks
Come evening, the whiteboards and chalkboards fill with the day's recommended snacks, drawing an easygoing crowd unwinding after work. The appeal lies in being able to order small plates freely—popular house-made macaroni salad, richly flavored sardine sashimi, and light, crisp onion tempura among them. Drink choices are just as broad, spanning draught beer, black and white Hoppy, regional sakes like Nanbu Bijin and Hakkaisan, and house signatures such as the Sakumatei Lycopene Sour made with fresh tomato.
Seating includes two-person and four-person tables as well as counter seats tucked toward the back, making it an easy drop-in spot whether eating solo or catching up with colleagues and friends. Note that lunch service accepts cash only, so having yen on hand ensures a smooth visit.
