Discover a Classic Izakaya Loved for Over 60 Years in Nakasu
Nakasu in Fukuoka has countless izakayas, but finding one that excels in taste, price, atmosphere, and hospitality is not easy.
Among them, there is a long-established izakaya that has been loved by locals and tourists alike for generations. That is Sake Ichiban, a traditional izakaya with over 60 years of history.
This article introduces the charm of Sake Ichiban, recommended menu items, and the atmosphere inside.
Taishu Sakagura Sake Ichiban
Sake Ichiban is a long-established izakaya that has been operating for over 60 years in Nakasu, Hakata, the premier entertainment district in Fukuoka Prefecture. With affordable drinks and an extensive menu, it is popular with both locals and tourists.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hours | 4:30 pm–11:30 pm |
| Closed | New Year holidays (Dec 31–Jan 2), Oct 21 |
| Payment | Cash only |
| Smoking | Allowed at all seats |
| Phone | 092-291-3920 |
| Parking | None |
| Nearest Station | 2 - min walk (130m) from Nakasukawabata Station Exit 1, Subway Kuko Line |
| Address | 4 - 4-9 Nakasu, Hakata - ku, Fukuoka 810 - 0801 |
Safe for Solo Diners: Warm Hospitality
What I most want to convey about Sake Ichiban is the warm hospitality of the motherly staff who run the place.
They greet you with such friendliness that it feels like coming home to your family.
Whether you sit at the counter or a table, they always check on you, so you never feel alone even when dining solo. Solo diners can enjoy not just the food but the entire experience.
When I say the warm, motherly staff, I mean that the izakaya is run by about 3-4 middle-aged women, including those in the kitchen. Every single one of them warmly engages with customers.
From casual conversations like Where are you from? to recommendations about Fukuoka specialties, delicious sake, popular menu items, and the best ways to enjoy them. Despite being busy running around in this popular, thriving restaurant, they never skip communicating with guests.
I have visited izakayas all over Japan, but I rarely find one as comfortable as this.
A Welcoming Atmosphere Loved by Locals – Safe for Women Traveling Alone
Perhaps because the clientele ranges from locals to tourists, the age range is broad – from 20s to 50s. There were middle-aged men, groups of young locals in their 20s, and even two Korean women in their 20s visiting from abroad. Some came not as tourists but on business trips to Hakata. Korean menus are available, making it easy for international visitors to order.
Local young people also seem to gather here because of the staffs warmth. A group of about 8 energetic young men came in but listened respectfully to the staff and were considerate of other customers. Seeing this made me feel this is truly a warm place loved by the community.
Sake Ichiban is built on the character of its motherly staff, which is why the atmosphere is exceptionally welcoming. Women can feel safe dining alone here.
The intimate size of the restaurant means the staff can keep an eye on everything, which is another reassuring factor for solo diners.
Ambiance and Seating
The interior is a quintessential traditional izakaya. There are counter seats, table seats, and tatami seating.
From Hakata Specialties to Home Cooking: Affordable and Extensive Menu
From Hakata specialties like motsunabe (offal hot pot) and mizutaki (chicken hot pot) to home-style dishes, the menu is extensive and everything is reasonably priced.
Travelers will appreciate that Fukuoka local sake is also well-represented on the menu.
There is an abundance of sashimi, grilled fish, hot pot dishes, yakitori, and fried foods. It is the ultimate lineup for a traditional izakaya.
Seasonal Fish and Fukuoka Local Sake
The fish is sourced seasonally, and the staff can advise you on which Fukuoka local sake pairs best with your dish.
The recommendation is definitely the sashimi. Japanese sake and fresh fish sashimi are a perfect match.
Sake Ichiban offers the following Fukuoka local sake:
- Tanaka Rokujugo
- Biden
- Wakanami
Recommendation 1: Mentaiko Tamagoyaki
Among Sake Ichibans extensive menu, I highly recommend the tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) at 300 yen.
As befitting Fukuoka, it is tamagoyaki with mentaiko (spicy cod roe). The price of 300 yen is surprising, but above all, the gentle flavor and comforting dashi broth bring peace of mind. Home-style cooking creates a moment of relaxation.
Recommendation 2: Easy-to-Enjoy Yakitori
The yakitori is offered at reasonable prices, making it perfect for casual snacking.
Pictured are kawa (chicken skin, top) and bara (pork belly, bottom).
A Reliable Izakaya in Nakasukawabata: Over 60 Years of Trust and Hospitality
When looking for an izakaya, I search for a place where my companions will be glad they came.
When looking for an izakaya, I search for a place where I feel comfortable.
When looking for an izakaya, I search for a place where I can enjoy local specialties and sake.
Whether near home or while traveling, the criteria for choosing an izakaya are much the same. Taste, price range, atmosphere and safety, and the warmth of the staff. Sake Ichiban excels in all these aspects.
The exterior looks like a classic traditional izakaya. Some might find it intimidating to enter. But once you step inside, you will find the warm, motherly staff, the locals who gather because of them, and fellow travelers like us creating a gentle atmosphere, along with delicious and affordable Hakata cuisine, home-style dishes, and Fukuoka local sake.
Sake Ichiban is a reliable izakaya in Nakasukawabata, backed by over 60 years of trust.
Please stop by when you visit Hakata.
