Bulda Ramji Sakaba

About

Cozy Japanese-style sakaba in Jayang-dong offering miso-seasoned tuna namerou and diverse liquor pairings in an intimate neighborhood setting.

Tucked away in the quiet residential alleys of Jayang-dong, Gwangjin District, Buldaramjwi Sakaba is a cozy, under-the-radar neighborhood watering hole. With just three two-person tables, a four-seat table, and a compact counter bar for two, the intimate hideaway operates with an approachable, lived-in charm defined by playful Japanese knick-knacks and squirrel motifs on the napkins. The owner's hospitality sets an inviting tone early, greeting patrons with warm oolong tea on freezing winter nights, chilled lemon water in summer, and complimentary spicy pickled mustard greens (*takana*) to start. When guests settle in, the host happily recommends pairings from a well-curated beverage lineup that features rare Japanese bottles, Ilpoom Jinro served over carved ice, crisp highballs, lemon sours, and draft Orion beer straight from Okinawa. The menu leans into savory, drink-friendly plates, led undeniably by the signature tuna *namerou*. Diced raw tuna comes tossed in a rich, savory miso-based seasoning, completely balancing any fishiness with pure umami depth. Served alongside crisp sheets of toasted nori—with the host readily offering refills—it makes for an effortless, bite-by-bite drinking companion. Another crowd favorite is the *ankimo* (monkfish liver) cream udon, offering thick, chewy noodles coated in a rich, nutty, and velvety cream sauce packed with deep seafood savor. Whether you are settling in at the counter for draft beer and conversation or dropping by for a quiet second-round drink, the easygoing ambiance and attentive details make the space linger in your memory. Before you step back out into the neighborhood streets, the owner often slips a chewy retro milk caramel into your hand—a fittingly sweet, personal finish to a neighborhood gem.