Benikurage

No food and beverage pairing tops the harmonious marriage between sake and izakaya food, and Benikurage knows this too well. Driven by a shared passion for sake, the husband-and-wife team behind this Michelin-recognized izakaya in Osaka visited sake breweries in Japan to curate their favorite variety. Attention to detail is paramount in prepping the rice wine: hot sake is gently warmed in a pot, and its temperature is monitored with a thermometer. The tokkuri, or sake flask, is pre-warmed with hot water. The owner’s wife takes a little sip for a final taste test before serving it to guests; her smile widens as they nod in approval. Beer sometimes makes a guest appearance, but whiskey, wine, and soft drinks are notably absent. Naturally, the menu is geared towards compatibility with the beverage. A platter of three types of sashimi is paired with the recommended sake. The owner suggests a sprinkle of salt over the fish instead of the typical soy sauce dip. Newcomers can spot Benikurage by its chic concrete exterior and heavy wooden door. Service is a warm, late-night embrace, and each visit is an invitation for another.