Convivial and warm best describes the vibe at Sumire Yakitori house. Designed as a stylish izakaya, with hues of grey and brown dominating the interior, Sumire serves mostly yakitori (grilled meat and vegetables on skewers) as well as a selection of Japanese favourites like sashimi, and some hot plate dishes. At lunch, there are also plenty of set meals including salmon chirashi (rice bowl) and grilled eel on rice, which are great value for money.

Of note is the hinatoro chicken shoulder yakitori—this is a part that is rarely served. The daisen tori ramen which uses daisen chicken broth, and nixon roll that consists of grilled eel and cream cheese, are other hearty and satisfying dishes.

Intersperse the meal with yakitori. Two of the more interesting varieties available include the chicken breast with cod fish roe and mayonnaise (mune mentai mayo), and egg plant with chicken, miso paste and cheese (nasu nikumiso cheese). The homemade potato croquette (bakudan korokke) is a must-try, with fluffy mashed potato coddling an oozy half-boiled egg hidden within its crisp crust. Round off the meal with the matcha warabi mochi ice cream and homemade tofu cheese pudding.

Like any self-respecting izakaya, Sumire Yakitori houses a good list of alcoholic drinks including Sapporo premium draft beer, Black Nikka highball and Assari umeshu. The service is stellar, with friendly staff doing whatever they can to ensure that patrons have a great dining experience.