Blog/Nikkomi-Misto" - A stopover at "Ikenoue" on the Keio Inokashira Line. Kumahachi" where black belts gather.

Ikenoue is the third station from Shibuya on the Keio Inokashira Line and next to Shimokitazawa.

It's been 12 years since they moved to this location, making it a total of 18 years since they opened. They've come across a charming bar that local drinkers will want to visit even if it means getting off at Ikenoue Station.

Ikenoue "Kumahachi"

When I went inside, there were two tatami rooms in front, and the L-shaped counter was covered with black belts, who seemed to be regulars. There happened to be one seat available, so I slipped in next to an elderly couple! Excuse me!

Hoppy Black

The Hoppy, available in both white and black, is perfectly chilled on the outside and you can choose between Kinmiya or something else inside. This time, I chose the latter.

The set is 400 yen, and a refill of the nakka is 250 yen, the same price as in the Heisei era. The appetizer, which is a kind of greeting, is boiled bracken. When you see it piled up on a flat plate, you are taken aback, but at the same time, you are overcome with excitement, thinking, "This is no ordinary dish..."

Sashimi platter (450 yen)

Four slices of sea bream, one whelk, and a few slices of lean tuna and whale meat. All for just 450 yen. Unbelievable price and quality. No consideration for profit, it's at a level that makes you think they're just doing it as a hobby.

Grilled beef liver (480 yen)

There was also pork liver, but I chose beef without hesitation. It was presented in a spectacular way on a huge flat plate!

The salted sesame oil and coarsely grated garlic on top create a wild dish.

Local clam butter (400 yen)

I saw the elderly couple next to me eating this and couldn't help but order it.

Clams 1, 2, 3, 4... 10-person Grand Cabin!

Hoppy flavors continue to grow, and we switch to fresh lemon sour.

word used after one has been treated (esp. used after a meal)

It's a homey bar where everyone can get along, with roasted garlic being passed around from the farthest end of the L-shaped counter.

As I got into conversation with the couple next to me, I discovered that they had been teachers at the elementary school I attended! Although we weren't there at the same time, we had a great time reminiscing about the past, and I ended up staying until closing time. Who would have thought that just a short trip from Shibuya would bring me to such a wonderful bar? Life is all about taking detours!

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Store Information

Kumahachi

Time: 17:00-23:00
Closed: Thursdays
Address: 1-25-3 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 155-0031

High-Concentration Autumn Turmeric Powder (300 Capsules) [Ito Kampo] [Turmeric Supplement, Autumn Turmeric Powder, Curcumin] Price: 1,016 yen (tax included, shipping not included) (as of 6/2/2025)