Unasho

Fragrant steam rises the moment the lacquered lid is lifted, unveiling grilled eel so fluffy and tender that it parts effortlessly under chopsticks. Tucked down a side street in Uchikanda, Chiyoda Ward, Unamasa is a dependable spot where quality eel can be enjoyed casually as an everyday meal. Glazed in a light, gently sweet tare sauce, the fillets avoid heaviness, while an extra cruet of sauce on the counter allows diners to adjust each bite to their preferred richness.

The menu ranges from accessible unaju boxes to the generous Unadon Double—featuring a second fillet layered inside the warm rice—and comforting eel chazuke. Savoring hot rice alongside savory eel, punctuated by sips of clear liver broth (kimosui), delivers deep satisfaction even in the middle of a hurried day.

Evening Skewers and Small Plates

Beyond rice bowls and bento boxes, arriving in the evening offers the pleasure of exploring an appetizing roster of side dishes. Specialty eel skewers—from pleasantly bitter kimoyaki and liver to savory tanzaku fillets and hiremaki fin rolls—pair naturally with cold beer or sake. Balancing the meal with refreshing, vinegar-dressed uzaku or soft rolled umaki omelet before finishing with rice makes for a thoroughly satisfying evening.

Counter seats on the ground floor create a calm, welcoming setting where solo diners can easily settle in. Takeout bento boxes are available alongside dine-in service, and because the shop is cash-only and does not take seat reservations, it is best approached as a relaxed, walk-in meal.