Donpei

The sashimi is a natural place to start: order an assortment of the day’s recommendations and see what is in season. At Donpei in Nekozane, Urayasu, the selection may include fatty or lean bluefin tuna, alfonsino, gizzard shad and sardines. You can also ask to have your preferred fish made into sushi. Seasonal seafood, such as firefly squid from Toyama, pairs well with a dry junmai sake or warmed sake.

A generous choice of seafood and meat

There is more to the menu than fish, with plenty of hot dishes to accompany a drink. The signature chicken thigh, grilled until aromatic with salt or a glossy glaze, sits alongside beef tataki and chicken nanban served with house-made tartar sauce. These heartier meat dishes make a satisfying contrast to the delicate sashimi. A dashi-rich Japanese-style omelette, slowly simmered beef offal and freshly fried thick tofu are other options; enjoy them with a whisky highball or a sour made with fresh fruit juice.

A relaxed seat and something to finish

Guests remove their outdoor shoes before entering the calm dining area. There is a roomy counter where solo diners can drop in, as well as tatami seating and private rooms for groups and families. To round off the meal, try a torotaku roll—fatty tuna with pickled daikon—or a small seafood rice bowl; firefly squid ochazuke, rice served with tea or broth, is another option. Donpei stays open until 25 a.m., making it a useful choice for a late meal after work or at the end of a day out around Urayasu.