Negibouzu — Restaurant in Niigata

Nestled in the charming coastal city of Niigata, Japan—a region known for its exceptionally fresh seafood and fragrant, high-quality rice—NegiBouzu is an absolute gem that captures the heart of Japanese culinary tradition and hospitality.

From the moment we stepped through the door, we were greeted not just by the kind and welcoming staff, but also by the heavenly aroma of the traditional sumibi (Japanese charcoal grill) wafting through the air. The space is intimate and inviting, and although we didn’t have a reservation (there wasn’t an English-language booking app I could find), the staff kindly accommodated us for a two-hour seating in a private room on a Friday evening, likely helped by the fact that we arrived early around 5:30 PM.

We kicked off the evening with two signature appetizers, steamed right before our eyes at the table: Ebi no Mushimono – Plump prawns gently steamed to perfection, releasing a delicate sweetness and ocean-fresh flavor that was elevated by a hint of citrus and umami from the dipping sauce. Buta no Mushiyaki – Tender slices of pork belly, steamed and lightly seared to capture both the juiciness and richness of the meat, with a perfect balance of fatty silkiness and savory depth.

We selected two standout dishes that truly showcased the best of Niigata: Nodoguro no Sumibiyaki – This grilled blackthroat seaperch is a Niigata delicacy, and was the star of the night. Grilled to perfection over the charcoal, the skin was crisp and golden, while the flesh was luxuriously creamy, rich, and delicate, with a subtle sweetness that lingered beautifully. Each of us ordered our own charcoal-grilled fish, and the preparation was flawless. We also ordered Madai no Kamameshi – A traditional rice dish cooked and served in an iron pot, this featured red sea bream (madai) atop Niigata’s famed rice, slowly steamed with dashi. The result was a warm, comforting rice dish that soaked up all the umami of the fish—simple, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

For dessert, we shared two unforgettable treats: Nihonshu Terrine Sado Mikan Jam Zoe – A sake-infused terrine that was both silky and delicate, paired with the vibrant tang of Sado Island mandarin jam—a perfect harmony of creaminess and citrus. As well, Hakkaisan Baumu & Gelato – A moist, subtly boozy baumkuchen cake made with the renowned Hakkaisan sake, served alongside creamy gelato—a delightful finish that brought together Niigata’s refined sweetness and craftsmanship.

And of course, all of this was beautifully complemented by a dry local sake, enhancing each dish while standing on its own with clean, crisp notes.

While language was a barrier at times, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and understood. Their patience, smiles, and efforts to explain the menu (sometimes even with pictures!) added to the warmth of the experience.

Thank you, NegiBouzu, for your incredible hospitality, exquisite food, and for giving us a taste of Niigata we’ll never forget. If you’re ever in this city of rice and sea, do not miss the chance to dine here. Just come early—or, if you can, ask your hotel to help make a reservation. It’s...

Delicious food for a very affordable price. Their chicken dishes are very good along with their sushi. They give big portions so you know you are getting what you paid for. The restaurant is smoking friendly so be careful if you aren't a fan of secondhand smoke. Overall a wonderful atmosphere with an old style...

家族との食事会。 他のグループ店はよく利用してましたが初めて、こちらの店舗に伺いました。 接客の質の悪さにビックリしました。

個室に案内され直ぐに刺身の盛り合わせを持ってきて置いたら直ぐに大学生なのかな若い店員さんは何処かにいなくなり、こちらとしては料理の説明（何の魚の盛り合わせなのか）とか乾杯のお酒のオーダーをしたかったのですが。 再度、呼んだ際にお酒を頼み魚の種類を尋ねたが予想通り分からないと言われました。 他の料理を運んで来て人の目の前に手を差し出す時に一言もないですし、この段階で接客に関しては全てを諦めましたね。

1番怒りを覚えたのは飲み放題が終わり次のお客様がいれば退店するのは承知の上でしたが、急にあと3分で店を出ろと言われた事ですね。 こちらとしたら、帰る準備や締めの言葉とかあるのでもう少し早めに言ってもらわないと困りますよね。

個室に関しては。 ホームページから店内写真を見て個室を予約しました。 念の為、電話で個室の事を事前に聞いた際は部屋の壁、上下が空いてるがプライベート空間は確保されてると言っていたが実際は個室の扉が木の柵状になっていて廊下から丸見え。 ホームページにのっている庭園は見えないです。 もちろん、他の個室、廊下、厨房の従業員の声全て丸聞こえです。 他の方が仰っている大切な接待で使うには難しいと思いました。

せっかくの家族との食事会が残念な結果になり母はかなり怒っていて最後に責任者に文句を言ってましたね。 家族の中で母が1番よね蔵グループを利用しているので。 流石に責任者も外まで走ってきて頭を下げてくれたのでしばらくしたら再度利用したいと考えております。

長々と書きましたが人気のあるお店なので働いている方も自覚を持...