My most recent bar-hopping adventure led me to a cozy little spot called Sakaba Maruko. Interestingly, I had already popped into the neighboring bar, Shelbourne, for a quick drink before drifting into this one. I couldn’t help but wonder—maybe the name “Maruko” comes from the stylized katakana “コ” (ko) enclosed in a circle on the sign?
We settled in at the counter. Antonio went beer, while I tried something different: a shochu called “Rento.” If I remember correctly, this is the one that’s aged while being serenaded with classical music. Quirky, but kind of poetic, right?
I ordered some leaf wasabi, thinking it’d be a light appetizer—but wow, it packed a punch! The spice hit me right in the nose in the best way possible.
Next came the highlight: Hamachi and madai sashimi cured in kelp. The umami was deep and satisfying, and what really elevated it was the fisherman-style soy sauce. Rich, robust, and somehow rustic—it felt like tasting the sea itself.
Then came a dish that sounded almost too curious to pass up: Prosciutto with Taiwanese pineapple, mango, and mascarpone in a tofu dressing. It was delightful—sweet, creamy, and savory all at once. Even though I was already pretty full, my appetite mysteriously came back. This place might really be a hidden gem.
I left with one lingering thought: next time, I’d love to visit before I get too tipsy to truly savor it all.
That’s all for this round. Until next time—cheers.
“I wish I had met you first. Before we met them.”
— Eric Jerome Dickey, The Other Woman
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