Tabelog ratingTucked away in a back alley in Hiroshima’s Nagarekawacho district, Rojiura no Tapas Ishioka (路地裏のタパス イシオカ) is a bustling bar that merges Spanish and Italian flavours. The main draw is its extensive tapas menu, which features house-smoked specialities and a famously creamy chicken liver pâté. Unusually, the restaurant is connected to a pizzeria, allowing guests to order true Neapolitan-style pies alongside their Spanish small plates.
Guests consistently praise the house-smoked items (自家製スモーク), such as quail eggs and mackerel, the rich chicken liver pâté (鶏白レバーパテ), and the various ajillo (garlic oil) dishes. The fresh pastas and seafood paella also receive frequent compliments. The wine list is well-regarded, and many appreciate the lively, energetic atmosphere.
However, the experience can be inconsistent. Several reviewers report that the owner can be brusque or short-tempered, and a few non-Japanese visitors have noted feeling unwelcome. Portions are tapas-sized, so be prepared to order several dishes to make a full meal. The menu is written on a blackboard and can be difficult to see when the small space gets crowded.
A typical dinner costs between ¥4,000 and ¥4,999 per person. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,580 for a Quattro Formaggi pizza, ¥1,420 for an ajillo with a whole sanma (pacific saury), ¥1,100 for fresh fish carpaccio, and about ¥450 for individual smoked items. Most find it good value for the quality, provided you enjoy the shared-plate style and lively setting.
- Location: On the first floor of the Kato Building in a narrow alley in the Nagarekawacho district. It can be hard to spot, so check your map carefully. The nearest stations are Ebisu Cho and Ko-machi.
- Reservations: Recommended, as it gets busy after 7:00 PM.
- Payment: Credit cards are accepted. Electronic money is not.
- Seating: 34 seats, including 9 at the counter and 25 at tables.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Service: Staff can help with recommendations, but English may be limited and the menu is largely in Japanese.
- Smoking: The restaurant is non-smoking.
- Parking: No dedicated parking, but paid car parks are available nearby.
