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Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture. In one corner of the lively Douza nightlife district lies a small, hidden gem izakaya known for its delicious local fish, chicken, sake, and Nagasaki wagyu beef. Its name is “Torobi.”
We visited Torobi to check its reputation, tasted the food, and now we bring you a comprehensive review of its charms.
“Nagasaki Aburidokoro Torobi” is a hidden gem izakaya boasting delicious dishes made from local Nagasaki ingredients. With only 28 seats, the cozy atmosphere allows you to enjoy exquisite dishes and a wide variety of sake in a relaxed setting.
At Torobi, the focus is on using seasonal, select ingredients from Nagasaki Prefecture. Particularly noteworthy are the anago (conger eel) from Tsushima and the sweet tilefish. The large, fatty anago is exquisite when grilled or tempura-fried. The sweet tilefish, with its delicate white flesh, shines in Matsukasa-age (pinecone fry).
The sashimi is also of high quality. Not only is it fresh, but the skillful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well.
Nagasaki Prefecture is surrounded by the East China Sea, rich in marine resources. Located in fishing grounds where rich ocean currents intersect, fish raised in nutrient-rich waters can be supplied fresh. Therefore, you can enjoy sashimi with an elasticity that surpasses what you can find in Tokyo.
Other dishes include fragrant straw-grilled bonito tataki, savory Nagasaki wagyu beef, and steamed fresh vegetables, all meticulously prepared to bring out the best in each ingredient’s natural flavors.
When you visit Torobi, you must try the grilled dishes. Among them, the straw-grilled bonito tataki is outstanding. Each piece is carefully grilled with straw upon order, so it takes a bit of time, but it is well worth the wait.
The aroma of the straw enhances your appetite, and the bonito tataki, crispy on the outside and rare on the inside, offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The soy sauce-based sauce complements the flavor of the bonito, making it an addictive dish.
A meal at Torobi would not be complete without sake. “Nagasaki Aburidokoro Torobi” offers a wide selection of sake. It is a delight to choose from the owner’s carefully selected brands, paired perfectly with the dishes. Nagasaki sake is also available.
In addition to sake, there are also shochu, wine, whisky, and a variety of other drinks. The selection of Nagasaki sake changes depending on the situation, so it’s something to look forward to when you visit the store. Both classic and premium sake are available.
Torobi’s charm extends beyond its food. The relaxed atmosphere, perfect for adults to unwind, is another highlight.
You can enjoy conversations with the owner at the counter or have a banquet with friends in the tatami room, making it versatile for any occasion. The warm hospitality of the staff is also highly regarded. They provide detailed explanations of the dishes, including the best way to enjoy them and how to pair them with sake. The heartfelt service, prioritizing customer satisfaction, leaves a lasting impression.
All the dishes served in the restaurant were exquisite. Here are some of the dishes I enjoyed at Torobi.
First, I quenched my thirst with a cold beer. The appetizer was delicious and paired perfectly with the beer.
The fresh tomato and avocado salad was served with wasabi soy sauce. Its refreshing taste complemented the beer nicely.
I chose Nagasaki sake “Nagasaki Bijin (Junmai Daiginjo)” to pair with the sashimi. The combination was perfect, with the umami spreading in my mouth.
The assorted sashimi was made with plenty of fresh seafood, each piece being a delight. The firm texture, only possible with fish caught close to the fishing grounds, was very satisfying. This is an experience you can’t have in Tokyo, making it worth the trip to Nagasaki.
Afterward, I enjoyed the anago, bonito tataki, and Nagasaki wagyu beef. Sitting at the counter, I had lively conversations with the owner and regular customers. The atmosphere was so comfortable that I stayed longer than expected.
“Nagasaki Aburidokoro Torobi” prides itself on dishes made with Nagasaki’s delicious ingredients and warm hospitality. You can savor exquisite dishes in a hidden gem atmosphere.
With a wide variety of dishes and sake made with Nagasaki ingredients, it is recommended for travelers and tourists alike.
I have visited many small restaurants in Nagasaki City, but Torobi stands out for its fresh ingredients and skilled preparation. It’s a place that makes you want to visit again and again.
When you visit Nagasaki, be sure to stop by Torobi. You will leave with a full heart and stomach, thanks to the delicious food and warm service.
