Today, I’m introducing “Sajima Naruichi Shokudo,” a restaurant renowned for serving incredibly fresh seafood.
In Hayama, restaurants offering fresh and affordable seafood are surprisingly rare. This family-run restaurant, operated by local fishermen, is a hidden gem you must visit. After reading this, you’ll want to go!
This is my second visit to Naruichi Shokudo. During my first visit, they graciously allowed me to take photos during their busy lunchtime. This time, I had the privilege of visiting before opening hours to see how they prepare fresh fish and other ingredients!
I also had the dreamlike experience of tasting freshly prepared fish, right on the spot!
Highlight #1: Fresh Seafood Sourced with a Fisherman’s Privilege
“Sajima Naruichi Shokudo” is run by Yuko Iwasaki, a fisherman’s wife, and her brother, Tonoyuki Harada, an experienced chef. The restaurant has a special privilege: they directly source the freshest fish from boats at Sajima Port right after the catch.
During my visit, they had sourced freshly caught hairtail, horse mackerel, and other varieties of fish early in the morning. The privilege of selecting top-quality fish directly from the fishermen ensures that only the best makes it to your plate.
I was fortunate to watch Mr. Harada skillfully fillet the fish during the bustling pre-opening hours. Watching the delicate preparation of the sashimi was a treat in itself.
The sashimi platter I enjoyed featured lightly seared horse mackerel and hairtail, alongside fresh Spanish mackerel, flounder, and bluefin tuna. Each bite offered a delightful balance of firmness and sweetness, showcasing the exceptional quality of freshly caught seafood.
This was the best sashimi I’ve ever had! You must experience the freshness offered by this local fisherman’s privilege!
Highlight #2: The Chef’s Skill Shines in Every Dish
The dishes at Naruichi Shokudo stand out not only for their fresh ingredients but also for the chef’s meticulous technique and preparation. Mr. Harada, who has years of experience at the renowned Sajima restaurant “Kaneki,” demonstrates remarkable skill in every step, from filleting fish to preparing rice and frying items.
What amazed me most was the preparation of horse mackerel for frying. Mr. Harada carefully removed the fish bones with tweezers, ensuring a seamless dining experience. This attention to detail results in a crispy, juicy, and irresistibly delicious fried fish. The aji fry alone is worth the visit!
The side dishes, like miso soup made with generous chunks of fish and thick slices of daikon radish, are equally delightful. The hearty radish is a signature element, adding to the unique appeal of the meal.
Even the shredded radish garnish and vegetables in the small dishes are exceptionally fresh, sourced from the Iwasaki family’s farm in Tsukuihama on the Miura Peninsula. Locally grown, farm-to-table freshness shines through in every bite.
The hearty miso soup and crispy shredded radish garnish were phenomenal. I couldn’t help but finish everything on my plate!
Highlight #3: Warm Teamwork and a Welcoming Atmosphere
Another charm of Naruichi Shokudo is its warm, family-run environment. The owner, Yuko Iwasaki, exudes cheerfulness, acting as the mood maker for the team. During my visit, her lively personality shone through as she efficiently managed the day’s menu and handled the bustling restaurant with grace. The menu is handwritten daily, reflecting the fresh catch and their commitment to providing seasonal dishes.
The teamwork among the staff was inspiring to witness. Each member knew their role and executed it with precision, creating a seamless workflow before opening.
The young female staff member, who serves as Mr. Harada’s right hand, skillfully handled tasks such as preparing fried items, arranging the shredded radish, and making the restaurant’s signature dessert—soy milk blancmange. Her organizational skills were evident as she kept the kitchen running smoothly. Even the fridge’s layout relies on her touch!
Additionally, Ms. Iwasaki’s daughter diligently took care of cleaning and setting up the dining area, showcasing how every family member contributes to the restaurant’s success. It was heartwarming to see such a collaborative effort.
It’s impossible not to feel uplifted when surrounded by such a bright and caring team. Their energy translates directly into the warm atmosphere of the restaurant!
Baby-Friendly Notes
Naruichi Shokudo is a great spot for families with babies or young children. While compact, the interior has enough space to accommodate strollers. During my visit, I noticed families with young children comfortably enjoying their meals, which speaks to how accommodating the restaurant is.
Dog-Friendly Notes
Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant. Since there are no outdoor seating options, pet owners may need to plan accordingly when visiting.
Access Information for Sajima Naruichi Shokudo
- Address: 1F, Atelier 943 A, 943-1 Isshiki, Hayama-cho, Miura-gun, Kanagawa, Japan
- Hours: 11:30–14:30 / 17:30–20:30
- Closed: Tuesdays
- Parking: Available (approximately 3 spots at Atelier 943 parking lot)
- Official Instagram: Sajima Naruichi Shokudo Instagram
It’s a highly popular spot! During my weekday visit, the parking lot was full even before the 11:30 AM opening. Lines form quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Summary: For the Best Fresh Seafood in Hayama, Visit “Sajima Naruichi Shokudo”!
“Sajima Naruichi Shokudo” combines the freshest seafood, masterful culinary skills, and a welcoming family atmosphere to offer a dining experience like no other. Their use of local fishermen’s privileges to deliver incredibly fresh seafood is truly inspiring.
I’ve become an even bigger fan of Naruichi Shokudo! Their sashimi set meal was unforgettable. You must try it!
Hayama Navi will continue introducing more amazing spots in Hayama. Stay tuned!
Also, check out our first blog post about Naruichi Shokudo!
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