古民家レストラン たまや — Restaurant in Imabari

I’m still buzzing from dinner at Tamaya! Slide open the weathered kominka door and you’re instantly wrapped in warm lantern light and cedar-beam nostalgia—pure magic even before the food arrives.

Here’s what blew me away:

Vegan set meal – a gorgeous spread of seasonal veggies, perfectly seasoned tofu, fluffy rice, and a miso soup so deep-flavored I’m still thinking about it. Zero compromise on taste; even the meat-eaters at our table kept reaching over for bites.

Yakitori – smoky, juicy skewers that vanished in seconds (had to order another round—worth it!).

And then there’s Tamayo-san herself. She hops between five languages like it’s nothing, grills yakitori while sharing wild travel stories, and somehow makes every guest feel like an old friend. I left grinning ear to ear.

I’m literally mapping my next Omishima trip around this place—no joke. If you want unforgettable food, big smiles, and a slice of living history, run (don’t...

We highly recommend Tamaya! The restaurant is located in a former 'akiya' (abandoned house) that has been beautifully renovated. It's the last house on the village road before the forest begins, so the view is really lovely. The atmosphere cannot be found at any other restaurant on the island.

The chef is a really fun and friendly woman, with many years of experience cooking and operating businesses throughout Japan. She is kind, knowledgeable, and speaks many languages! Her menu has been thoughtfully crafted to include many delicious options, including vegetarian and vegan. we've enjoyed her restaurant many times :)

My husband and I operate a guesthouse nearby. We regularly recommend her restaurant to our guests, because it's a short drive, or a short walk, up the quiet village road, to Tamaya restaurant. The operating hours are posted on Tamaya instagram, and she also takes reservations for specific dates or...

This wife and husband run restaurant in a former Akiya is a hidden gem! I called in advance to make a reservation and ask if they could accommodate gluten free, and I was told yes. The owner takes great care with all of the ingredients used and can customize orders for special diets.

I had the katusuo (bonito) and ginger pork which was adapted to be gluten free by using salt instead of soy sauce, both of which were delicious. The organic lemon sour was also great.

The owner did a wonderful job restoring the house and garden outside. I was told that in the coming year they plan to open a guest room next to the restaurant which I look forward to staying at...