Today I’d like to introduce “Amato Ichiba,” a seafood diner in Hayama that I’d been curious about for years but somehow never managed to visit. It sits in a stand-alone house with the cozy feel of a Showa-era izakaya, run by an owner who loves Okinawa. The warm, relaxed atmosphere has made it a long-time favorite for both locals and visitors.
Inside, you’ll find Okinawan knick-knacks and lanterns, and behind the counter a board packed with small dishes and drink options. It’s not just a place for lunch – it also shines as a spot to enjoy drinks at night, the kind of place that makes you think, “Next time I’m definitely coming back in the evening.”
The owner working behind the counter looked so cool and relaxed, and the whole atmosphere felt just right.
Highlight 1: Bring In Your Own Catch｜The Fun of Fisherman-Style Cooking
The biggest highlight of Amato Ichiba is its service where you can bring in the fish you’ve caught and have them cook it for you on the spot. Sashimi, stewed dishes, deep-fried plates – they prepare your catch in the style that suits it best.
Local anglers especially love this place. When you end up with more fish than you can handle, it’s reassuring to have somewhere that will turn them into a delicious meal. The owner, with his love for Okinawa, has an easygoing, flexible attitude that makes it very comfortable to ask for special requests.
For people who love fishing, this service is such a treat. There are so many anglers around Hayama that it really feels like the perfect match.
Highlight 2: A Calm, Retro Atmosphere Like a Showa-Era Izakaya
The entrance is surrounded by lush greenery that feels almost like a small jungle, and once you step inside you’ll find a wooden counter and tables spreading out before you. The space has the calm, nostalgic feel of an old-school Japanese izakaya, making it a comfortable place to relax whether you visit at lunch or in the evening.
At night they even offer a unique service: if you drink, you can leave your car in the lot overnight for free. It’s a thoughtful option that makes it easier for people driving from farther away to enjoy their time without worry.
Highlight 3: Reasonably Priced and Satisfying Lunch Sets
For lunch, we ordered the “Oikē Don” (soy-marinated tuna over rice, 1,485 yen) and the “Tuna Tatsuta-age Set Meal” (1,150 yen). Both were well-balanced in flavor and generous in portion. The tuna tatsuta-age in particular was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, offering a very satisfying bite.
The wall menu lists many more dishes available at night, including assorted sashimi, fried items, simmered fish, and more. If you enjoy seafood, this place truly feels like a treasure chest.
Lunch for a hearty meal, dinner for a relaxed drink — it’s the best of both worlds!
Highlight 4: Spacious Interior with Tatami Seating — Great for Families
Amato Ichiba has 82 seats in total, including tatami rooms on the second floor. This makes it particularly family-friendly, allowing parents with young children to relax comfortably. There are also six parking spaces, making it easy to visit by car.
Baby & Kids Note｜Tatami Rooms Make It Easy for Families
・Tatami seating on the second floor makes it comfortable for families with small children.
・The entrance area is a bit narrow, so if you’re bringing a stroller, it helps to consult the staff when entering.
・The miso soup and simmered dishes have a gentle flavor that’s easy for children to enjoy.
Dog Information｜Dogs Cannot Enter the Restaurant
・Dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant. However, there is space outside where they can wait safely.
Access Information
Restaurant: Amato Ichiba
Address: 1815 Horiuchi, Hayama, Miura District, Kanagawa
Hours: 11:30–14:00 / 17:00–21:00 (subject to change)
Closed: Unknown
Parking: 6 spaces
Instagram: @amatoichiba
Official website: Not confirmed
Summary｜A Nostalgic Seaside Diner Full of Local Flavor
Amato Ichiba is more than just a casual seafood diner — it’s a place where the owner’s personality and the local seaside culture blend together. Whether you come for lunch or dinner, the experience is satisfying and memorable. It’s loved by anglers, families, and travelers alike.
From the unique “cook-your-own-catch” service to the retro, relaxed interior and the reliably tasty seafood dishes, this is a spot where you can feel the charm of Hayama’s coast. If you want to enjoy a peaceful meal surrounded by the sea breeze, this is the perfect place to visit.
I’m already planning to come back here at night for drinks by the sea!
Sources: Tabelog, official Instagram, menu photos (all rewritten for this article)
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