Abumi

Located near Toshima Market in Sugamo, Abumi is a familiar spot for anyone seeking a hearty breakfast or lunch. In the morning, diners can opt for a set meal centered on grilled salmon or other main dishes, assembling their own tray with self-serve rice, miso soup, and side dishes. Opening shortly past 7:00 in the morning, it provides a reassuring stop for market workers and anyone looking to fill up early.

Come lunchtime, the menu features classic set-meal fare such as grilled salted mackerel, Japanese fried chicken (karaage), pork ginger stir-fry, and minced meat cutlets. The salted mackerel, grilled to order, is generous and tender, making it easy to finish a bowl of rice even while sampling the side dishes before the fish arrives. The buffet of self-serve daily side dishes—including seasoned soft-boiled eggs, potato salad, simmered daikon radish, and namul—alongside pickles, salad, and free refills on rice and miso soup, forms the heart of the experience here.

From late afternoon into the evening, the restaurant shifts into an izakaya, pouring Kirin Lager, Hoppy, and fresh-squeezed sours alongside drinking snacks like thick fried tofu (atsuage) and grilled mentaiko. With an unassuming atmosphere welcoming solo diners as well, guests can step away from the bustling street outside to enjoy a leisurely set meal or a drink.