HIKARI OBANZAI

A dedicated Japanese izakaya where you can savor local seasonal ingredients

Nearby Ryokans

HIKARI OBANZAI is a Japanese-style izakaya and small diner that opened in March 2024 along the Ueno-Nabari Line in Nabari City, Mie Prefecture. The owner, a culinary researcher who also teaches cooking and baking classes, creates handmade obanzai (traditional Kyoto-style side dishes) featuring seasonal, local ingredients. Located right next to Workman Plus Nabari, the cozy interior has only nine counter seats. It serves as a hidden retreat where locals gather in the evenings for good food and drinks.

Features

The diner offers a warm, welcoming environment that makes visitors feel at home. Soft jazz music plays in the background, creating a calm atmosphere for adults. The menu, selected from a culinary expert’s perspective, features a variety of Japanese dishes. Options include fresh sashimi platters, grilled chicken wings, sirloin steak, and scallop cheese. The shop is also certified for serving Asahi Super Dry Extra Cold, allowing guests to enjoy sub-zero draft beer alongside high-quality dishes.

Every dish prepared by the owner, a culinary researcher, is absolutely exquisite! Ordering the omakase tasting menu lets you savor the best seasonal ingredients throughout the year.

Recommended Ways to Spend Time and Enjoy

The shop is an easy 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nabari Station. Sitting at the counter and enjoying a conversation with the owner over a cold drink is a great way to start. If you are unsure what to order, the seasonal omakase (chef’s choice) course offers a different taste of the season with every visit.

Guests can enjoy small portions of delicious obanzai and occasionally listen to live music events held inside the shop. It is a great spot for dinner with friends or family, as well as for solo travelers looking for a quiet drink. In addition to the evening hours, the shop offers a limited lunch menu of just eight servings per day, which includes an optional dessert and coffee set for a slightly premium lunch experience.

Basic Information

・Spot Name: HIKARI OBANZAI
・Business Hours: 16:00–21:00 (Lunch hours vary due to limited quantities; checking in advance is recommended)
・Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and National Holidays (Occasionally closed on Thursdays)
・Price: Dinner: ¥3,000–¥3,999 / Limited Lunch: From ¥1,540
・Parking:  Available

Access

Address: 1502 Kamihachicho, Nabari City, Mie Prefecture

Transportation

Public Transport: About a 10-minute walk from Nabari Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line

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