Hello, this is Peli from Hayanavi. Today I’m introducing “Washu Bistro KOYA,” a cozy, well-loved bistro within walking distance from Zushi Station.
KOYA specializes in Japanese sake and domestic wines. Each dish is crafted with care, yet the atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly. I visited with my husband for his birthday and was surprised to see how many families were dining in—proof of how much the locals adore this place.
If you’re in Zushi or Hayama thinking, “I want something really delicious without the formality,” or “I want a place where the food and drinks are both done right,” KOYA will hit the spot.
Going out for dinner at night used to feel like a hassle—but this place is proper, yet effortless. That balance is rare.
魅力① A Big Blackboard Menu Full of Temptations
KOYA’s standout feature is its enormous blackboard menu, packed with handwritten dishes. While most bistros keep a fixed list of around 30 items, KOYA offers 70–80 different dishes, changing daily with the seasons and fresh market finds.
From small starters to carpaccio, fried plates, grilled dishes, and rice or noodle finales—everything is arranged so that each course pairs beautifully with sake or wine. It’s the kind of place where choosing what to eat is half the fun. Whether you stop by for something light or settle in for a full dinner, KOYA fits the mood perfectly.
魅力② “Cook with Heart, Serve with Grace” — The Owner-Chef’s Philosophy
Owner-chef Mr. Koyama honed his skills in both bistros and traditional Japanese restaurants in Tokyo before opening KOYA in Zushi. His approach is grounded in simplicity and sincerity.
“The most important thing,” he says, “is to respect the ingredients. Instead of flashy presentations, I want to create food that lingers in the guest’s memory.”
That’s why everything—from the way he makes dashi to the timing and temperature of plating—is handled with quiet precision. Each detail feels personal, never rushed.
He visits the local market himself every morning, selecting seasonal fish and vegetables with his own eyes. The tableware, too, is chosen with intention—each piece handmade by a Mashiko-based ceramic artist whose earthy tones enhance the warmth of the dishes.
Every plate is designed so that the food and the vessel complete each other. When it lands on the table, there’s a moment of calm beauty—exactly as he hopes guests will feel.
“I want to deliver the quiet beauty that exists the moment a dish is served,” he says. That sentiment truly captures the spirit of KOYA.
Every plate felt thoughtful and calm—it reminded me what it means to truly “cook with care.”
魅力③ Every Dish Tells a Story of Honest Craftsmanship
That night, I ordered the “Super Tasty Liver” (780 yen), “Premium Fried Chicken,” “Free-Range Pork Grill” (2,480 yen), “Today’s Carpaccio” (1,580 yen), and “Lotus Root and Sudachi Pickles” (580 yen).
*Prices may vary depending on the day’s menu.*
Every single dish lived up to its name—each one made me say, “Wow, this is really good.”
The liver was incredibly smooth, free of any gaminess, and melted in my mouth with a rich, subtle sweetness—an absolute must-try for sake lovers.
The fried chicken had a crispy, paper-light coating and juicy meat that burst with flavor. It’s the kind of “simple but perfect” dish that you instantly remember.
The free-range pork grill was seared beautifully—crispy on the outside, tender inside—with deep, savory fat that lingered pleasantly. A truly satisfying entrée.
Today’s carpaccio featured fresh, seasonal fish, drizzled with olive oil and just the right touch of salt—it was light yet full of character, impossible to stop eating.
The lotus root and sudachi pickles were a refreshing palate cleanser between rich bites—a quiet but thoughtful touch that showed the chef’s sense of balance.
Every dish exceeded my expectations. This place has that rare kind of “kindness that comes through the food.”
魅力④ Perfect Pairings with Japanese Sake and Domestic Wine
KOYA offers a curated selection of Japanese sake and domestic wines, all chosen by the owner himself. “I want guests to enjoy drinks that reflect the heart of the producers,” he says.
He pairs each dish with a perfect match—perhaps a crisp Niigata sake with sashimi, or a light Nagano Niagara white with grilled pork—always suggesting what brings out the flavors best.
The goal is simple: to make high-quality Japanese beverages feel approachable, enjoyable, and worth exploring—one glass at a time.
I’m not a wine expert, but the guest next to us was chatting passionately with the chef about wine—and you could tell he really knows his stuff!
魅力⑤ A Warm, Family-Friendly Atmosphere—Even at Night
Though KOYA mainly operates for dinner, it’s welcoming to families. The owners’ children are sometimes present, adding to the comfortable, lived-in feeling of the restaurant.
When I visited, a few kids were happily chatting between tables, and the staff watched over them with warmth and ease. It’s an environment that feels genuine, not forced.
For parents, it’s a relief to find a dinner spot where you can enjoy good food without feeling self-conscious. Since it’s a popular place, booking ahead is recommended if visiting with family.
Baby & Kid Note
Children are welcome. The restaurant mainly offers table and counter seating, so it’s not ideal for long stays with strollers. To dine comfortably, book an early time slot around 5–6 p.m. on weekends. Bringing baby food is unconfirmed, so please contact the restaurant in advance if needed.
Dog-Friendly Info
The restaurant is fully indoors and dogs are not allowed. KOYA is in a central, walkable area near Zushi Station—best enjoyed as a relaxing evening spot without pets.
Access
Washu Bistro KOYA
Address: 5-4-37 Tachibana Building 1F, Zushi, Kanagawa
Access: 7 min walk from JR Zushi Station / 5 min from Keikyu Zushi–Hayama Station
Hours: 17:00–23:00
Closed: Unconfirmed (check official page before visiting)
Parking: None (coin parking nearby)
Phone: 046-884-8077
Instagram: @washu_bistro_koya
Official site: https://koya-zushi.com/
*Hours, holidays, and menu may vary. Please check official Instagram or website for updates.*
*Sources: official site, Tabelog, owner’s blog (rewritten for clarity)*
Summary
“Washu Bistro KOYA” in Zushi is where Japanese sake, domestic wine, and heartfelt cooking come together. With a huge rotating menu, beautiful handmade tableware, and a warm, family-friendly vibe, it’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back. Whether you’re a mom planning a dinner out, a restaurant owner seeking inspiration, or a traveler exploring local favorites, KOYA is worth adding to your list.
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Hello, this is Peli from Hayanavi!
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