Tabelog ratingBera Jr. (ベラ ジュニア) is an intimate tapas bar built around a single concept: live-fire cooking. In a compact, 20-seat space in Nishinakasu, the chef works over an open wood flame, finishing dishes so they arrive with a distinct, controlled smoky aroma. Guests sit at the counter, watching the entire process up close, making for an engaging and personal dining experience.
The menu's highlight is the wood-fired steak, with reviewers consistently praising cuts like misuji (top blade) and tōgarashi (a lean shoulder cut), often from Satsuma black beef. Other popular dishes include the house-smoked bacon, smoky potato chips, and rich meat pastas like bolognese. The chef's personable service and thoughtful wine pairings are frequently mentioned, and several international visitors have noted that staff can communicate in English.
On the downside, the chef often runs the kitchen and floor alone, which can lead to slower service during busy periods. A few diners found certain dishes too salty, and the powerful wood-smoke aroma tends to cling to clothes. Seating is cozy, and some find the chairs a bit firm.
Dinner typically costs between ¥6,000 and ¥8,000 per person. Reviewers recently paid around ¥4,800 for a single steak, ¥7,200 for a three-meat tasting platter, ¥650 for the smoked potato chips, and ¥1,100 for a Caesar salad with house bacon. Most guests feel the quality of the ingredients and the unique smoky finish offer good value for the price.
- Booking: Reservations are recommended, as the small space can be fully booked on busy nights.
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Tenjin Minami Station. The restaurant is on the ground floor of the Ura Building.
- Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners), electronic money, and QR code payments are all accepted.
- Seating: 20 seats, primarily at the counter. No private rooms are available.
- Atmosphere: Be prepared for a strong, pleasant wood-smoke aroma that will linger on your clothing.
- Language: Staff can often speak English.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Smoking: A designated smoking area is available.
- Parking: No parking is available.
