Japanese Sake Finds in Italy: Rome and Milan’s Notable Spots

Italy is renowned for its wine, but Japanese sake is gaining popularity. In Rome and Milan, there are specialty stores where you can enjoy a diverse selection of Japanese sake. This article highlights Italy’s burgeoning Japanese sake scene and introduces three recommended spots in Rome and Milan.

Japanese Sake Spots in Rome

From cozy corners to upscale establishments, Rome offers a surprising variety of places for lovers of Japanese sake. Whether you are a connoisseur or a curious beginner, these spots provide a taste of Japan’s rich drinking culture. Here is a look at one of the best places in the city to explore the world of sake.

Enoteca Kodama: A Cultural Haven for Sake and Spirits in Rome

"Enoteca Kodama" in Rome is a specialized liquor store that focuses on Japanese sake, wine, and whisky, with a particular emphasis on sake. The name "Kodama" refers to the spirit believed to reside in ancient Japanese trees.

Inside the shop, visitors will find a library corner filled with rare books on sake and whisky, available for browsing at their leisure. The founders, Mr. Cassiano and Mr. Di Giulio, regularly host tasting events and workshops designed to share the cultural value of sake, making the experience enjoyable even for beginners.

The store offers a selection of carefully curated, refrigerated sake, including rare unpasteurized varieties. Additionally, the founders are committed to quality, stocking natural wines and Scotch whiskies.

Their mission goes beyond merely selling alcohol; they aim to share the cultural narratives and stories behind each bottle. To achieve this, they provide detailed explanations and support to help visitors deepen their understanding of these beverages.

Furthermore, they are working on writing a guidebook to expand knowledge about sake and are sharing tasting notes and reviews online. This effort helps visitors gain a deeper appreciation and enjoyment of sake.

Enoteca Kodama strives to be more than just a liquor store, emphasizing that drinking can be both a cultural and aesthetic experience. Since its opening, the store has gained support from the local community and those interested in spirits.

The founders are committed to continuing their mission of promoting Japanese culture through their offerings.

Enoteca Kodama

 Hiromi la Maison: A Premier Destination for Japanese Sake and Cuisine in Rome

One of the most unique features of "Hiromi la Maison" is the extensive selection of over 160 different types of Japanese sake, including rare unpasteurized varieties and aged sakes with complex flavors.

The restaurant also offers a range of Asian-style cocktails crafted by its talented bartenders, Simone Francia and Maurizio Converso. Their creations, like the "Sakuna" and "Homosubi," offer a fresh twist by blending sake with other spirits, delivering a distinctive and exciting flavor experience.

The menu at Hiromi la Maison features traditional dishes from Japan's Kansai region, including popular favorites such as "Doteyaki," "Katsudon," and the special "Maguro Katsu Special." Meat lovers will find plenty to enjoy, while there is also a variety of options like ramen and sashimi to suit different tastes.

Adding to its unique ambiance, the restaurant boasts a Zen garden that enhances the overall atmosphere, offering a tranquil setting for guests. Hiromi la Maison goes beyond simply serving food and drinks; it plays a vital role in promoting Japanese culinary and drinking culture. The venue regularly hosts sake-tasting sessions and sommelier training courses, providing an educational experience for those eager to learn more.

Hiromi la Maison

Japanese Sake Spot in Milan

Milan may be famous for its wine and aperitivo, but there is a unique spot where sake takes center stage. At the intersection of Japanese tradition and Italian sophistication, this establishment offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rich world of sake culture. Step inside and discover a fusion of flavors, where each sip and dish tells a story of craftsmanship and passion.

Sakeya: Where Milan Meets the World of Sake

"Sakeya" is a Japanese sake specialty restaurant in Milan, founded in 2017 by Lorenzo Ferraboschi and Maiko Takashima. The establishment features an impressive collection of over 150 types of sake, meticulously selected from all 47 prefectures of Japan.

Chef Masaki Inaguchi crafts dishes specifically designed to pair perfectly with these sakes, offering a menu that includes creative offerings like Wagyu beef and octopus confit, all carefully curated to enhance the flavors of sake.

Additionally, Sakeya serves as the Italian branch of the Sake Sommelier Association, playing a key role in promoting sake culture.

At Sakeya, guests can enjoy tasting courses that expertly combine sake with a variety of dishes. The menu goes beyond traditional Japanese fare such as sushi, offering unique creations like charcoal-grilled skewers and a signature octopus dish, along with delicious desserts to complete the dining experience.

Sakeya is not just a restaurant; it is a dynamic venue that combines the functions of a sake shop, lounge bar, and bistro, making it a place to explore the depth and diversity of sake. For sake enthusiasts and those seeking new culinary adventures, Sakeya offers an unparalleled experience.

Since its inception, Sakeya has focused on spreading the culture of sake, becoming a prominent representative of sake culture in Italy due to its unique approach and high quality.

In recognition of its contributions, Sakeya was awarded the special "Valorizzazione del Sake" (Enhancement of Sake Value) prize. This accolade was presented in collaboration with the "Sushi 2025" guide by Gambero Rosso and JFC Italia, alongside Hiromi La Maison.

For those eager to delve into the world of sake, Sakeya stands out as a must-visit destination, offering a refined and memorable journey through Japanese flavors right in the heart of Milan.

Sakeya

Discover Japanese Sake Culture in Italy: Top Spots to Explore

The presence of Japanese sake in Italy is growing. Rome's "Enoteca Kodama" and "Hiromi la Maison," and Milan's "Sakeya" each offer unique experiences for sake enthusiasts. As Japanese sake continues to spread in Italy, visiting these spots might lead to discoveries. Experience the depth of Japanese sake by exploring these recommended stores.