Entenka

Slide open the door to find an unpretentious standing counter and tables, where glasses clink and colorful platters of raw meat sashimi arrive in quick succession. The centerpiece of Entenka in Takadanobaba is its Kagoshima free-range chicken (jidori) along with an extensive selection of meat sashimi. Options range from side-by-side tastings of chicken thigh and breast to a comprehensive four-cut platter featuring thigh, breast, liver, and heart, as well as gently cooked low-temperature "mega liver," allowing guests to explore the distinct textures and clean flavors of each cut.

Standing toe-to-toe with the food menu is the bar's generous mega-sized drink selection. Poured at roughly 2 times the standard volume, options like Mega Kaku Highballs, Mega Lemon Sours, and Mega Oolong Hai are priced at an approachable 500 yen, with an option to request a stronger pour (koime) for an extra kick. Those looking to settle in can also order a Strong Hoppy set, a chilled pour of Kokuryu sake, or sweet potato shochu like Mitake.

Beyond raw preparations, the kitchen cooks up fragrant seared chicken cuts, seared liver, and refreshing starters like chicken with ponzu or scallion-topped chicken ponzu. Smaller bites like soy-marinated cream cheese, seasoned quail eggs, and beef tripe (senmai) make handy palate cleansers to keep the meal moving along.

The tavern runs on a practical, self-reliant system: drink orders upon arrival, a straightforward ordering style for dishes, and patrons carrying their own trays and clearing dishes when finished. Once familiar with the rhythm, it becomes an effortless spot to drop by solo for quality meat dishes and a chilled mega stein.