The Modern Izakaya is one of those low-profile places buzzing away under the radar that you are thrilled to discover. It ticks every box: good food, reasonable pricing and cosy, relaxed vibes. The service here is friendly, sincere and proactive without being intrusive.

An added bonus: its cute location in a small glass house infused with natural light.

Start the weekend here with its focused range of sakes by the glass—not often available in restaurants here—served sosogi-koboshi, poured until the wine overflows into a wooden masu cup below. The Hakkaisan Tokubetsu Junmai and the Nanby Bijin are crisp and refreshing, and go nicely with the parade of dishes.

Food-wise, yakitori, or smoky grilled skewers cooked over bincho (i.e. Japanese coal), is another speciality here. The mixed platter of eight skewers is a winning highlight,comprising juicy portions of bacon wrapped in asparagus,beef, chicken wings and even quail eggs. Others that will delight include the salmon aburi maki, a hearty roll of lightly seared salmon encasing sushi rice with an unusual centre of cream cheese; comforting pork belly rice with onsen egg; and the bar snack of small river shrimp fried delicately crisp and served with a lemon wedge.