Sugimoto

In a quiet corner of Minami-Oi, Shinagawa, Sugimoto is a Japanese restaurant that lights up in the early evening. Its unpretentious atmosphere has a nostalgic, welcoming feel. A familiar favourite at the heart of the menu is kiji-yaki don: a rice bowl topped with fragrant, richly sauced kiji-yaki. Alongside the rice bowls, the menu includes crisp fried horse mackerel, squid and prawn. They make satisfying choices for an evening meal when you want something substantial.

There are also grilled fish, fresh sashimi and individual dishes such as tuna with grated yam. You can linger over small plates with beer or other drinks, or have them as part of a set meal with rice and a deeply savoury miso soup.

The evening opening hours are 6 pm to 9 pm, and the restaurant is closed on Sundays. The dining room is quiet and peaceful, with a relaxed atmosphere that suits stopping in alone for dinner. Payment is by cash only, so it is worth having cash on hand when you visit.