Matsuri

For evenings when you want a substantial meal in an unpretentious drinking spot, Matsuri in Higashi-Kasai proves a dependable choice. The menu is packed with generous, home-style fare, each dish arriving in satisfying portions. First-time orders often center on the signature dishes: the fisherman-style grilled squid with liver, rich in deep umami that pairs naturally with drinks, and the tender, thoroughly simmered beef tendon.

The owner's creative touches show across a wide range of house specialties. Dishes like torifubuki—chicken crowned with plenty of house-made tartar sauce—along with hinotama-yaki, a spicy rolled omelet folded around kimchi, and meat-packed Matsuri gyoza easily anchor the table. Other crowd-pleasers include sukimi natto, a hearty toss of raw fish cuts and fermented soybeans, and crispy spring rolls packed with piping-hot mochi and melted cheese.

Drinks to accompany the spread range from chilled draft beer to clean, refreshing sakes such as Hakkaisan, Koshino Kagetora, and Hitakami. To round off the meal, options are just as hearty, spanning fragrant garlic fried rice, grilled rice balls, and comforting chazuke.

The dining space offers both table seating and tatami floor areas, making it convenient for group gatherings. Open from 17:00 in the evening until late into the night, it provides an easygoing backdrop for sharing an assortment of small plates among friends.