Located in a relatively respectable corner of Roppongi, Shirube offers a decent sake list and reliable izakaya-style fare at reasonable prices in this often expensive area. The dining area is quite large, with private rooms suitable for parties and a spacious counter that's comfortable for lone diners.

Shirube's famous seared mackerel is one of the big draws here - it's not just tasty but also entertaining, as it's prepared right at your table by a blowtorch-wielding waiter. Another highlight is the bagna cauda - a colorful mix of fresh and beautiful vegetables served with a satisfyingly pungent anchovy- and garlic-heavy dipping sauce. Other specialties of the house include amiyaki-grilled meat and fish, and Tokyo-style oden in a dark broth.

Service is friendly and competent, and the atmosphere gets livelier as the evening progresses. Dinner with drinks averages around Y3500.