A Hidden “Fisherman’s Meal Heaven” in Kotsubo — An Izakaya Lunch with Unlimited Rice and Fish Soup - 葉山Navi 通称”ハヤナビ"【葉山/逗子/鎌倉/江の島/横須賀】#はやなび#はやまなび#葉山なび#葉山ナビ#ハヤマナビ

Peli

Hello, this is Peli from Hayama Navi!
Hayama Navi shares wonderful places around Hayama.
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If you are visiting Hayama or the Miura Peninsula, you might be wondering where to find a truly delicious seafood lunch.

Tourist restaurants are nice, of course, but discovering a small, local spot where neighborhood regulars gather is always a special experience.

Today I’d like to introduce an izakaya in Kotsubo, Zushi called “Tsubomaru”.

It’s mainly known as an izakaya, but the lunch here is surprisingly popular. One of the best parts is that rice and ara-jiru (fish soup) come with unlimited refills — perfect if you want a satisfying, hearty meal.

Peli

I have to admit, the exterior looked a little old-school at first… but once I stepped inside, it felt incredibly cozy and welcoming!

Highlight #1: The Ultimate Lunch with Unlimited Rice and Fish Soup

The first thing that surprises many visitors is that rice and ara-jiru (fish soup) are both refillable. It’s a self-service style, so you can go back for seconds without hesitation — perfect if you want a satisfying lunch.

The ara-jiru especially stood out to me. The rich flavor of fish stock blended beautifully with the gentle miso broth, creating a comforting soup that made me want another bowl immediately.

Here’s what I ordered during this visit:

• Fisherman’s Meal (Ryoshi Meshi) – 1800 yen
• Seafood Bowl – 1800 yen
• Fried Horse Mackerel (Aji Fry) – 580 yen

The fried horse mackerel was particularly memorable. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it highlighted the freshness of local fish you would expect from a restaurant close to the fishing port.

Highlight #2: Everyday Set Meals Loved by Locals

Tsubomaru isn’t just about seafood bowls. The restaurant also offers a variety of set meals that locals enjoy regularly.

For example:

• Fried Horse Mackerel Set Meal – 1060 yen
• Fried Chicken Set Meal – 1180 yen
• Stewed Offal Set Meal – 1180 yen

These dishes are perfect when you want a filling lunch.

During my visit, I noticed fishermen and local workers enjoying their meals while happily refilling their rice and soup. It’s clearly a place loved not only by visitors but also by regulars from the neighborhood.

Peli

I love places like this. Even though it’s near a tourist area, it still feels like a neighborhood dining spot where locals come for their everyday meals.

Highlight #3: A Rustic but Surprisingly Comfortable Atmosphere

The atmosphere inside the restaurant has a very rustic charm.

Some of the seats are simple cushions placed on overturned drink crates, giving the place a nostalgic, old-school izakaya feel.

Yet despite its traditional look, the restaurant never feels intimidating. Instead, it has a warm, relaxed vibe that makes first-time visitors feel comfortable right away.

The owner’s wife was especially kind and even reminded me, “Don’t forget the fish soup!” when I walked in.

It’s those small gestures that make a place memorable.

Baby & Family Note

The restaurant offers lunch service and many set meals, making it relatively easy for families to visit for a casual meal.

However, since the interior has a traditional izakaya layout, it may be difficult to move around with large strollers during busy hours.

If you are visiting with small children, it may be best to come slightly outside peak lunch time.

Dog-Friendly Information

The terrace seats allow dogs.

However, there are only a limited number of outdoor seats, so it is recommended to contact the restaurant in advance if you plan to visit with your dog.