Locale: Pair authentic Italian with the perfect wine

In search of a casual Italian dining experience with homemade dishes and tasty wines? Locale has you covered.

Located in the building connected to Sagamihara Station of Odakyu Line, the eatery is perfect for your daily commute or after a day trip.

“When you exit the ticket gate at the station, just turn left and (Locale) is 200 steps away,” says Ken-ichiro Iguchi, restaurant manager. “It’s easy. You can’t miss it.”

Although located near a station, Locale has a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. With Italian furniture and wooden shelves filled with antique books, the interior is more like the study of a traditional Italian house than a restaurant.

Including an 8-person private room, Locale can accommodate more than 40 customers at once. Those planning a large party can reserve the whole shop; there are various party options, including all-you-can-drink.

Locale, a 10-minutes walk from Sagamihara Housing Area, is popular among locals thanks to the highly-reputable chef Toshiharu Nakamura, who has used his training to create a unique take on Italian food.

“Chef Nakamura has spent 10 years working exclusively on Italian cuisine, so he knows how to create authentic Italian dishes,” Iguchi said. “He carefully chooses fresh foods from the market every day, so you can sample the best possible Italian dishes throughout the year.”

While most dishes are cooked with seasonal foods, grilled wagyu beef and roasted lamb (2,000 yen ($20) each) are some of the fixed menu items available year round. Carefully grilled wagyu beef has an extremely tender texture and rich taste. Homemade balsamic sauce and sprinkled parmesan cheese really bring out the crispy flavor, according to Iguchi.

You can also create your own 5-item appetizer plate for 1,000 yen. This popular option pairs well with the many wine options Locale has to offer.

“We offer up various wines - from casual to full-bodied, both red and white,” Iguchi said. “We enjoy helping you pick the best wine to pair with your dish.”

If you just want to enjoy a casual glass of wine, there are also several selected house wines for only 500 yen.

The next time you’re looking for some authentic Italian food, or just need that glass of wine, check out the unique atmosphere at your local Locale.

Locale

Open: Wed.-Mon.,  11:30 a.m.–3 p.m., 5-12 p.m.
Location: 5-11-19 [2F] Minamidai, Minami-ku, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Localeodasaga/
Tel: 050-5590-6351 (reservation),  042-701-1230 (for more information)