Numabukuro Heiwaen: The Wasabi Ribs from 'Solitary Gourmet'

Located about a 10-minute walk from Numabukuro Station, Heiwaen (平和苑) is a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet residential alley. As you stroll through the neighborhood, you might find yourself wondering, "Wait, there's a barbecue restaurant here?" But as soon as you turn the corner, the nostalgic exterior and the rich aroma of charcoal-grilled meat will immediately convince you that this place is a must-visit.

This restaurant gained fame for its Wasabi Ribs (わさびカルビ), which were featured in the Japanese drama 'Solitary Gourmet.'

🥩❤️ Exceptional Meat Quality
The highlight of this restaurant is undoubtedly the quality of the meat. The Wasabi Ribs, in particular, are a showstopper. The meat is so fresh and tender that it bursts with juices even with minimal cooking. Pair it with freshly grated wasabi, and you'll experience a harmonious blend of flavors that is simply unforgettable. With great value for money, this dish is a must-try for first-time visitors.

🍽️✨ Tips for Enjoying Wasabi Ribs
1. Grill one side of the meat until it glistens.
2. Flip it over and cook briefly.
3. Add fresh wasabi on top and roll it up to eat.
The tender ribs combined with the sharp kick of wasabi create a perfect flavor balance.

😋 Rare Cuts Are Delicious but Small in Portion
I also tried rare cuts like 'Sankaku (三角)' and 'Maru (丸).' While they were incredibly flavorful, with a rich and nutty taste, the portions were quite small—just enough for one or two bites. These are ideal for those who want to sample a variety of cuts.

🍚🥚✨ Rice + Raw Egg + Natto = Ultimate Comfort Food
When I ordered the rice with raw egg set, it came with a slightly salty, dried-style natto. This combination turned out to be a real treat. The natto had no unpleasant smell, and when mixed with rice and raw egg, it became a delightful side dish that rivaled the meat in taste.

🥬 Side Dishes: Kimchi, Seaweed Soup & Yukgaejang
Unlike Korean barbecue restaurants, Japanese yakiniku places typically don't offer side dishes. To balance the richness of the meat, I ordered kimchi, which was decent. Interestingly, the menu also included seaweed soup and yukgaejang, adding a touch of Korean-style comfort to the experience.

📋 Atmosphere & Useful Tips
• Traditional, nostalgic vibe run by an elderly lady.
• Charcoal grilling means lots of smoke—ask for ice if the heat gets too intense.
• Arrive at opening time for immediate seating; after 7 PM, expect a wait due to local diners.
• Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so check ahead before visiting.

"The Wasabi Ribs alone make this place worth a visit in Tokyo." If you want to experience the charm of 'Solitary Gourmet' in real life, Numabukuro's Heiwaen is a must-try.

📍3 Chome-23-2 Numabukuro, Nakano City, Tokyo 165-0025
⏰ 18:00-22:00 (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
💴 Cash only, no card payments
✔️ Operating hours may vary depending on the owner's condition, so it's recommended to call ahead.