HIKARI OBANZAI
A specialty Japanese izakaya where you can enjoy seasonal, local ingredients.
What is HIKARI OBANZAI?
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.
A Relaxing Space With Jazz and Great food
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 crafted by the owner, a culinary researcher, is absolutely delicious! If you order the omakase (chef’s choice) course, you can enjoy the best seasonal ingredients with every visit.
How to Enjoy Your Visit
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.
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
・Name: HIKARI OBANZAI
・Operating 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: 3,000–¥3,999 yen / Limited Lunch: From 1,540 yen
・Parking: Available (Contact the venue directly for details)
Access
・Address: 1502 Kamihatcho, Nabari, Mie 518-0710
・By public transport: About a 10-minute walk from Nabari Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line.
Nearby Ryokan
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