Robata Ishikura at Akihabara, Tokyo

Long-running robatayaki izakaya on Akihabara's Junk-dori since 1969, famous for its beef tendon rice bowl.

Robata Ishikura has stood on Akihabara's Junk-dori since 1969, making it one of the neighbourhood's longest-running izakaya. The menu spans charcoal-grilled yakitori, sashimi, tempura and a wide range of set meals, with the gyusuji-don - beef tendon rice bowl - the most popular order. The restaurant opens for lunch and continues through to last orders at 11pm. Unlike many izakaya, the kitchen keeps a full set-meal menu available throughout the day and into the evening, which has made it a fixture for solo diners seeking a proper meal rather than just snacks. Prices are reasonable and large rice portions are often offered at no extra charge. The interior is old-school and unpretentious, with counter and table seating. For a taste of old Akihabara before the high-rises moved in, Robata Ishikura is a reliable choice. More than fifty years on, the gyusuji-don alone is worth the visit.