Shinpachi

Settling into a seat and glancing at the paper-strip menu reveals an unpretentious lineup of dishes, from charcoal-scented skewers to piping-hot simmered stews. Shinpachi Itabashi Nakajuku is a welcoming izakaya centered on grilled skewers and small plates, where an evening can easily unfold over a wide variety of drinks.

Skewers in Tare or Salt, Alongside Substantial Meat Dishes

The skewer selection spans grilled pork varieties seasoned with a choice of tare sauce or salt—including buta karubi pork belly, shiro intestine, and pork-wrapped scallions—alongside familiar chicken cuts such as cartilage-flecked tsukune meatballs, liver, and bonjiri tail. Beef skirt skewers, mochi wrapped in bacon, and asparagus bacon also feature, making the process of composing an order skewer by skewer part of the enjoyment. More hearty fare is on offer as well, including deep-fried half-chicken made with Nakasatsunai Inaka chicken, diced garlic beef steak, and shinkoyaki grilled young chicken, well suited for those looking for a substantial meal.

From Signature High-Riki and Small Plates to Hearty Rice Dishes

While waiting for skewers from the grill, quick bites such as deeply simmered motsuni tripe stew, dashi rolled omelet, and fried tofu keep drinks company. Beverage options range from the tavern's signature High-Riki chu-hai—available in large bottles—to draft beer, Hoppy, and refreshing sours flavored with Iwashita pickled ginger or Otoko Ume plum. To round out the meal, Nagasaki sara udon, yakisoba noodles, the house oyakodon chicken and egg bowl, and rice balls provide satisfying choices even on evenings without alcohol.

Open from 4:00 p.m. into the late hours of the night, it serves equally well for a quick drink after work or a casual dinner of shared dishes with a group.