HYPER LOCAL NAGOYA
At the intersection of Akatsuka in Higashi-ku, Nagoya, there’s a Nagoya’s hidden teppanyaki izakaya called “Kon-chan.” The place exudes a hyperlocal vibe, and it takes some real courage to step inside for the first time. A friend swears by this joint, so I decided to sneak a peek at a low-key Nagoya-style drinking party on a weekday at “Kon-chan.”
Cozy, Hyperlocal Teppanyaki Izakaya!
Inside, you’ll find a cozy setup with ten counter seats and one table, and yes, it’s a smoking-friendly environment. The atmosphere screams old school and local, so if you’re not a regular, you might feel a twinge of nervousness. But fear not! The friendly master of the house greets you with a smile. The master might not seem approachable at first sight, but he’s actually friendly and caring. A cool local Nagoya guy, he brings a genuine warmth to the izakaya, making everyone feel at home. Despite the slight haze of cigarette smoke, the first sip of an ice-cold draft beer hits the spot, especially in Nagoya’s hot and humid weather.
The menu features all the teppanyaki classics: okonomiyaki, yakisoba, domestic beef ribs, grilled chicken thighs, and a solid range of izakaya staples. Everything is cooked up right in front of you by the master himself, so you get to enjoy your food piping hot and fresh off the grill.
In a quirky twist, some drinks like lemon sours are self-serve from a dedicated corner. This homey, laid-back vibe explains why there are so many loyal locals. It’s a cozy spot.
The counter area might be a bit cluttered and messy, but hey, that’s part of its charm! The master is always ready for a chat, making the atmosphere genuinely enjoyable.
Whether you have a problem to share, need some advice, or just feel like having a casual conversation while drinking alone, Kon-chan is the perfect place to drop by for a friendly and lighthearted chat.
Kon-chan （鉄板居酒屋こんちゃん）
1-101-2 Tokugawa, Higashi-ku, Nagoya
