Shima

When deciding what to order from the grill, starting with the omakase selection of skewers is an easy approach. Guests are asked whether they prefer salt or sauce; the tare is light and savory, coating options like tsukune meatballs nicely. Skewers grilled patiently over charcoal come served with a dollop of spicy miso on the side of the plate, providing an inviting kick to vary each bite.

Shima’s menu extends across classic izakaya bites, including simmered offal motsuni, pork jowl, skirt meat, tongue, and gatsu sashimi (blanched pork stomach). The drinks list features draft beer, large bottles of Kirin Ichiban Shibori, white Hoppy, baisu sours, and slushy sharikin shochu, alongside curated bottles of sake and shochu.

The compact storefront in Oji, Kita Ward, opens from 17:00 in the evening. During peak hours, smoke rising from the charcoal brazier fills the compact room with the energetic hum of an old-school tavern. Because seating is limited, the setting suits solo drinkers and small parties looking for unpretentious grilled skewers and drinks.