The Yoshidamachi area bridges the bustling nightlife district of Noge and the Isezaki-cho Mall pedestrian shopping street. Unlike a bridge, however, it has far more to offer than just acting as a means to cross to the other side. There are many fine restaurants and bars to explore, and also mixed in are small art galleries and other quaint shops.
Tradition in the neighborhood is long-running. Toraya, the classic Japanese sashimi and tempura shop run by longtime community leader Arai Hiroshi, has served generations. UMEYA has been delivering delicious chicken to Yokohama’s residents for over a century. Sparta can boast the title of oldest Greek restaurant in Japan. Newer restaurants specializing in Vietnamese, Indian, Italian and other ethnic cuisine can also be found in this one central location. Great drinking establishments are in abundance ranging from an overwhelming choice of American craft beer at Antenna America to the local brews on tap at Yokohama Bay Brewing.
Yoshidamachi is fortunate to have a strong community of business owners willing to work and not only invest money, but also their time in the neighborhood. Three times a year in the spring and summer, the main avenue is closed to host the Yoshidamachi Beer Garden (5/3 this year) in addition to a similar event for Halloween. This month the Yoshidamachi Art and Jazz Festival will also take over the neighborhood. Current Events Committee Chairman, Tsuchiya Ryoichi (owner of hip bar Poz Dining) has been working hard to make all the events a success. We at the Seasider would like to encourage all to join in the fun, even if you aren’t a local.