01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Even on nights when a clear craving has not quite formed, simply turning the pages of the menu at Ryoma Koji in Saiin is enough to set an appetite in motion. Bound in a volume so hefty it invites continued browsing, the offerings span everything from glistening raw fish and deep-fried bites to substantial skillet stir-fries and filling rice courses, all served in notably generous portions.
From Fresh Seafood to Varied Rolled Omelets
A solid way to begin is with an assortment of sashimi, or fresh octopus and squid accented by shutou, a deeply savory cured-bonito seasoning. Alongside traditional drinking snacks, the dashimaki tamago (rolled omelet) lineup stands out for its sheer range. Beyond the purist's dashi broth version, guests can choose preparations enriched with spicy pollack roe, draped in Kyoto-style dashi gravy, folded with melting cheese and mentaiko cream, or rolled around savory eel or seasoned minced meat. Satisfying hot plates keep the table lively, featuring dishes such as beef and Kujo scallion sukiyaki stir-fry, whelks sautéed in butter, and crisp tempura made with sweet Beni Haruka sweet potatoes.
An Extensive Drink Selection Into the Small Hours
The drink list matches the kitchen's breadth. Diners can design a custom sake flight with 3 pours that include seasonal local brews, or explore distinguished honkaku shochu labels such as Sato and Hyakunen no Kodoku. Drinkers will also find rose-scented highballs crafted with Four Roses bourbon alongside light, fruit-infused mixes. The interior balances an approachable counter where solo diners can drop in comfortably with private rooms well-suited for groups, complemented by all-you-can-drink course menus for parties. Open until 2:00 from Tuesday through Sunday, it accommodates every kind of evening, from an unhurried post-work pint to a late-night supper of miso champon noodles or comforting curry rice.
