Unagi Hamamatsu Gozaro

Located just a short stroll from Hamamatsu Station in the bustling Sakacho area, Gozaro is a celebrated izakaya renowned for its masterful seafood dishes and deep connection to the region’s culinary heritage. Drawing from the rich bounty of the Enshu-nada Sea and Lake Hamana, the menu showcases locally sourced ingredients prepared with exceptional care and creativity. At the heart of the menu is eel (unagi) — a beloved local specialty said to be the secret to Tokugawa Ieyasu’s strength and longevity. In fact, Hamamatsu is known as the “City of Success,” once home to the great shogun himself. With the international success of the hit drama "SHOGUN", the city’s historical significance is more relevant than ever. Locals proudly say that it was the nourishing power of eel that helped sustain the Tokugawa shogunate for generations. Gozaro honors that tradition with "Deshiko" — a premium eel breed known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Expertly grilled and lacquered in house-made tare, it’s a must-try dish that encapsulates the spirit of Hamamatsu’s culinary legacy. Other highlights include seasonal sashimi, Hamana Lake oysters, and the rare Douman crab, a prized delicacy that’s both luxurious and deeply rooted in local food culture. Gozaro adds a playful twist to classic izakaya fare with inventive dishes like chikuwa cheese and perfectly crisp fried oysters. Behind the menu is Chef Kenichi Akimoto, a master of his craft who brings decades of experience and refinement to every plate. The atmosphere at Gozaro reflects the same dedication to quality. The restaurant's entire interior is features local Hamamatsu wood, including repurposed materials from the original structure, renovated with sustainability in mind. This eco-conscious approach earned Gozaro the Forestry Agency Director-General’s Award from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Guests are invited to dine in a warm, wood-scented space designed to evoke the calm of a forest bath — an intentional choice by the owner to offer both nourishment and relaxation. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring the essence of Hamamatsu, Gozaro offers an authentic, refined dining experience steeped in history, craftsmanship and local pride.