01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
When the evening calls for hearty grilled meats and unpretentious drinks with friends, Itami in Ikebukuro is an easy destination to keep in mind. Thick-cut beef tongue is frequently singled out by diners, sizzling on the grill and releasing juicy savor with every bite. Those who prefer a lighter, brisk start can opt instead for scallion-salted tongue or thinly sliced premium salted tongue.
For a pleasing balance between lean meat and sweet fat, the classic loin and kalbi short ribs are staple picks, alongside finely marbled jo-roast and jo-kalbi cuts. The Itami Set features an assortment of 4 daily recommended cuts, providing a quick way to sample the kitchen's specialties without hesitation. Small dishes also keep drinks well accompanied while the meat cooks, from rich seared yukhoe to crunchy boiled white tripe served with vinegared miso.
Drink choices cover broad ground, starting with draft beer and Suntory Kaku highballs before moving on to chilled bottles of Tora Makgeolli, various sours, and shochu with tea. To round off the meal, the kitchen serves smooth, chewy cold noodles, bibimbap generously crowned with toppings, and warming bowls of spicy daegu-tang soup.
Located in bustling Ikebukuro, the restaurant is open until 7:00 the following morning from Tuesday to Saturday, 22:30 on Sunday, and 0:00 the following morning on Monday, making it a reliable destination for late dinners and after-hours gatherings. Courses with 2 hours of all-you-can-drink are also available, and reserving ahead is recommended for groups planning to gather around the grill.
