Kannomiho

Unless you show up just as they open — admittedly, 4 pm is too early to start the night — expect a steady stream of patrons who settle for a long evening over a cup of warmed sake. The cozy, old-timey izakaya is situated along the stretch of Nagahori-dori Street in Osaka, taking over the place of a former coffee shop. The space now has an L-shaped counter, open shelves with stacks of mismatched plates and a gas stove; the effect is akin to stopping by a friend’s apartment. Naturally, the atmosphere is always bustling: staff moves around and serves a trio of appetizers as you peruse the menu. The food items may be driven by seasonality, but the seared Kawachi duck and kasujiru — a hearty sake lees soup — are staples year-round. The kitchen does an admirable job with other izakaya-focused dishes like horse yukke (chopped raw meat), sashimi platter and miso-simmered beef sinew. Even though there’s beer and wine at Kannomiho, skip them. Local sake is why it earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award in 2023. Not sure which sake pairs best with the meal? The staff can make a recommendation. Even the handwritten remarks in the menu's opening notes make it clear: "Kannomiho is run by Miho, who adores warmed sake."