Hamachan

One dish that diners remember at Hamachan is the three-item otoshi assortment, which includes tamagoyaki with spring onion. The selection makes a fitting accompaniment to a drink, and is well suited to settling in with a glass and a few bites. Another diner also described enjoying drinks with the otoshi and snacks prepared in advance. Rather than ordering a full spread of dishes, this is a place for taking things slowly over a drink.

Shochu is a talking point among the drinks, and one diner mentioned enjoying shochu from Kumamoto. Someone who ordered a second highball said it was made with VO brandy as its base. Beer is also available, offering another way to start the evening.

Hamachan is in the Lido dining arcade, just west of Karasuma on Shichijo Street, and has only a few counter seats. Diners’ descriptions differ on the exact number of seats, but all portray it as a small establishment. It is better suited to solo diners or small groups than to larger parties, with the close quarters making it possible to chat with the owner or people seated nearby.