01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Tucked into a side street among the office blocks of Iidabashi 2-chome, Masami hangs its shop curtain over an unpretentious entrance that feels preserved from the Showa era. Inside, a lively greeting welcomes diners to counter and table seating, quickly filling with workers dropping by after finishing their morning duties. A dependable lunchtime anchor here is the daily set meal, appreciated for its modest pricing and prompt service. Main dishes rotate between choices such as chicken cutlet or mackerel simmered in miso, accompanied by freshly steamed rice, piping-hot miso soup, a small side, and pickles for a homestyle, untiring meal that leaves you thoroughly satisfied.
Beyond the set meals, the menu offers a generous selection of classic diner à la carte dishes, noodles, and rice bowls. Fragrant stir-fried vegetables, pork kimchi, or crisp, deep-fried tonkatsu can be paired with individual orders of rice and miso soup to tailor a meal to your liking. When noodles are in order, dishes such as umani soba—coated in a thick, savory vegetable glaze—and tender, easy-to-slurp wontons deliver the comforting, familiar appeal of neighborhood Chinese-style diner cooking.
On weekday evenings, the shop serves equally well as a relaxed pit stop for a beer accompanied by casual bites like fried chicken, gyoza, and potato salad before finishing with dinner. While tables may be shared during peak lunch hours, the attentive service and warm hospitality ensure an easygoing meal. Note that payment is cash only, so it is best to arrive with coins or bills ready.
