01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Tucked into Nakasaiwaicho in Kawasaki's Saiwai Ward, the izakaya Mochizuki is a cosy counter-focused eatery where diners can enjoy line-caught seafood landed by the master himself alongside homestyle Japanese cooking. A glance at the whiteboard reveals the day's catch: fresh horse mackerel sashimi accented with fragrant grated ginger, or tachiuo (beltfish) with its skin crisply seared to bring out rich umami. Regulars frequently order the signature aji fry, served piping hot with a tender, fluffy interior that pairs deliciously with classic brown sauce or tartar sauce.
Along the counter, ready-to-serve small plates and simmering obanzai dishes line up in inviting rows, ranging from fish braised to a deep amber glaze to tender simmered daikon radish that carry the warmth of home cooking. Diners also linger over carefully broiled items, such as seasonal pacific saury with crackling, salt-grilled skin, fatty salmon collars, or semi-dried squid overnight-cured for concentrated flavour. The drinks list covers bottled beer, chu-hi highballs built on spirits like Takara Shochu, Iichiko, or Kuro Kirishima, and regional sake, accommodating whatever strength or mix you prefer.
The dining room is centred around counter seating, fostering an easygoing mood where solo guests can unwind over an evening drink amid cordial, attentive hospitality. Mochizuki is open in the evenings from 17:00 to 22:00, and is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays; payment is cash only. With seating limited, arriving on the earlier side helps ensure a relaxed meal around the freshest catches and freshly prepared dishes of the evening.
