Introducing Choi-Nomi Mashikiya

Hello, fellow travelers!

It’s Binako, your SaruKuma writer who just ran out of her favorite blended coffee sticks!

Today I’m excited to introduce you to Wakaba in Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City, home to “Choi-Nomi Mashikiya” — a charming little izakaya where casual drinks meet seriously good food.

You’ll find it along the lively Kenkun Shopping Street, right next door to Izumo Ramen, which we’ve previously featured.

[CLOSED] Izumo Ramen: A Ramen Shop’s Hearty Takeaway Oyakodon That Truly Satisfies (Wakaba, Higashi Ward, Kumamoto City)

Inside you’ll find both counter seats and table seating, making it easy to drop in even if you’re traveling solo — perfect for those wanting an authentic local izakaya experience.

The wall displays the day’s recommendations, and everything looks tempting — but the dish that immediately caught my eye was my all-time favorite: Fried Oysters (Kaki Fry, 540 yen)

Here’s a peek at the menu:

Mashikiya’s signature specialties include:
・Mashikiya’s Homemade Stuffed Fried Gyoza (2 pieces) — 450 yen
・Thick-Cut Beef Tongue (Gyutan) — 990 yen
・Pia-Cress Vanilla French Toast — 650 yen

You’ll also find a “quick serve” section, plus basashi (horse sashimi) — a Kumamoto specialty — and nikomi (slow-simmered stews).

Kid-friendly favorites like fried foods and pizza are on the menu too, along with shime (closing dishes) — perfect for families.

The variety means there’s truly something for everyone.

Of course, there’s a full drinks menu too.

And yes — soft drinks are available too, so non-drinkers and kids are well covered!

Bento (lunch boxes) are also available for purchase,
so you can take Mashikiya’s signature dishes home with you ♪

The staff even kindly provided child-sized tableware for our little one ^^

Choi-Nomi Mashikiya’s Recommended Menu

First up, the Onsen Tamago Caesar Salad (630 yen).

That moment when you crack the soft-poached egg and the yolk flows out — irresistible!

The way the dressing blends with the runny egg yolk is just perfect.
And the bacon? So thick and juicy, you could practically eat it over a bowl of rice.

Next, the Shishamo Yuzu Marinade (500 yen) — and wow, the texture absolutely surprised me with how tender it was.

I’ve never had shishamo (smelt fish) this soft before…
It’s genuinely moving how delicious this is.

Now here’s Mashikiya’s signature dish:
Mashikiya’s Homemade Stuffed Fried Gyoza (2 pieces)

Gyoza filling is stuffed inside a piece of aburaage (fried tofu pouch), and the bite-sized portions make them so easy to enjoy.

The dipping sauce is incredibly tasty — I wanted to dunk them generously and drink up every last drop!

The gyoza themselves are wonderfully tender, with the rich meat flavor spreading through every bite — seriously recommended.
And since they’re available for takeout, definitely grab some to enjoy at your hotel or accommodation!

Pure Beef Tendon Stew (Gyusuji Nikomi, 830 yen)
This dish practically radiates deliciousness.

Pure beef tendon — nothing else!
It’s an indulgent specialty, and the moment it touches your tongue, the melt-in-your-mouth tendon literally dissolves.

And here it is.
My beloved Fried Oysters!

The crispy coating wraps around plump, meaty oysters that are just too good for words!
Each bite was packed with generously sized oysters — pure happiness in your mouth.

And then, the thick-cut beef tongue (gyutan)…
I could bow down to it for hours.

This tongue practically melts away.

Eaten with wasabi and salt, the richness of the meat becomes refreshingly clean — an unbeatable combination.

Even our kids couldn’t stop eating it (haha)!

The salted mackerel (shio saba) was also wonderfully meaty and flavorful — but listen up:
The grated daikon radish (daikon oroshi) was unbelievably fluffy and incredibly delicious.

Eating it together with the mackerel creates a texture you’ve never experienced before — truly impressive.

And anything we couldn’t finish, the staff packed up for us to take home — such a thoughtful touch!

The owner is wonderfully friendly, attentive, and warm-hearted, creating a truly comfortable atmosphere where you’ll instantly feel at home.

And here’s a special bonus for our readers:
Mention “I saw it on SaruKuma”
and get a free drink on the house!

Travelers exploring Kumamoto, definitely add this place to your itinerary!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.