anchoa: Modern Spanish Cuisine

In the historic city of Kamakura, anchoa offers a distinctly Japanese interpretation of Spanish cuisine, built around the exceptional seafood of nearby Sagami Bay. The experience is intimate and focused, with chef Koji Uotani applying classic Spanish techniques to local ingredients, creating something both familiar and new.

Guests consistently praise two signature offerings: the pinchos platter and the paella. The meal often begins with a dramatic assortment of six intricate bites (pinchos), showcasing creative uses of local fish, pork, and game. The main event is the paella, rich with concentrated stock and shown to diners tableside before serving; the squid-ink version is particularly acclaimed. Other frequently mentioned highlights include the stuffed piquillo peppers and a Basque-style cheesecake for dessert. The thoughtful Spanish wine pairings are also a core part of the experience.

While the vast majority of reviews are glowing, a small number of diners have reported inconsistent service or found some dishes over-seasoned. A few guests felt the lunch portions didn't quite justify the cost, and there is a single but notable report from one diner of a hygiene issue. Overall, however, most find anchoa delivers a memorable meal that is well worth the price for a special occasion.

Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥12,100–¥13,200 for the standard dinner course, and from ¥16,500 for premium courses. A lunch course centered on fish paella was about ¥6,600. Wine pairings start around ¥6,000 for five glasses. Typical spend is ¥6,000–¥8,000 for lunch and ¥15,000–¥20,000 for dinner.

• Booking: Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, often a month out. Book online for parties of 2-4; phone for larger groups.
• Access: A 3-minute walk from the West Exit of Kamakura Station.
• Seating: The restaurant is small, with 15 seats split between a counter and three tables. Counter seating is common; specify a preference for a table when booking, though it cannot be guaranteed.
• Children: Children under elementary school age are permitted only at one specific window-side table, which must be reserved by phone.
• Dietary Restrictions: The restaurant states it cannot accommodate guests with multiple food allergies, or those who cannot eat seafood, garlic, onions, or bell peppers.
• Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
• Dress Code: Smart casual.
• Service Charge: A 10% service charge is added to dinner bills.
• Smoking/Parking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. No parking is available.