#Japan #Tachikawa #Watami #Torimero #Udora

Watami's Strategic Expansion: New 'Torimero' Izakaya in Tachikawa

Watami Inc., headquartered in Ota-ku, Tokyo, is set to launch its new izakaya, the 'Torimero Tachikawa Station South Exit Store', on March 31, 2026. This marks the first new opening in 5 years and 9 months for the Torimero brand, which celebrates its 10th anniversary of establishment. Since June 2020, when the last new location was opened, existing Torimero restaurants have consistently reported sales above the previous year's figures for 47 consecutive months. Despite a general contraction within Japan's izakaya market, the brand has successfully cultivated a loyal customer base and established a profitable revenue model, prompting the decision to strategically resume new openings.

To commemorate the grand opening, Watami will host a special "Thank You 39 Beer Campaign" from March 31 to April 2, during which the first pint of Suntory's The Premium Malt's draft beer will be available for only 39 yen (around 42 yen including tax).

Balancing Quality and Affordability at Torimero

Torimero operates 99 locations nationwide and serves as a key player in Watami's domestic dining sector. Since its establishment in 2016, the izakaya has maintained an attractive pricing strategy, offering classic drinks such as beer for 199 yen (including tax) and highballs for 299 yen (including tax). As part of their seasonal offerings, Torimero has introduced a limited-time 'Farewell and Welcome' course, which includes premium Omi beef with an all-you-can-drink option for 4,500 yen (including tax).

Torimero also offers a diverse range of value options, including courses starting at 2,980 yen (including tax), allowing patrons to enjoy domestic wagyu and premium tuna, catering to varying customer demands. Additionally, the brand is committed to enhancing product quality by switching to chilled chicken for its signature grilled skewers and incorporating organic produce grown at its own Watami Farm.

Strategic Reopening in a Busy Terminal

The decision to reopen is based on the significant sales performance of existing locations. For this new establishment, Watami carefully selected areas with high passenger volumes, choosing a location near Tachikawa Station, which sees over 300,000 passengers daily across multiple railway lines, including the Tama Monorail and Seibu Railway. The area acts as a commercial hub within the Tama region, catering to a wide variety of customers, from local residents to business visitors and shoppers.

Watami previously operated in Tachikawa until June 2020 but was compelled to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new Torimero location aims to reconnect with the community after this hiatus.

Collaboration with Local Character 'Udora'

As part of their community engagement efforts, the new Torimero Tachikawa Station South Exit Store will collaborate with 'Udora,' a beloved character in Tachikawa City. From March 31 to April 2, Udora will be present at the store to greet customers and partake in special events and promotions.

Udora Collaboration Highlights

• - Date: March 31 to April 2
• - Meet and Greet: Udora will welcome customers at the store entrance.
• - Exclusive Gifts: Customers will receive coasters featuring both Udora and Torimero's character, Melo-chan, while supplies last.
• - Photo Opportunities: An original collaboration photo booth with Udora will be available in-store for fun photo opportunities.

Special Beer Promotion for the Opening Days

During the grand opening period from March 31 to April 2, the Torimero Tachikawa Station South Exit location will also feature the 'Thank You 39 Beer Campaign.' For these three days, the first pint of Suntory's The Premium Malt's draft beer, normally priced at 199 yen (approximately 218 yen including tax), will be just 39 yen (around 42 yen including tax) to encourage patrons to celebrate the new opening with a toast.

Key Menu Highlights

• - Juicy Chicken Skewers: Starting from 88 yen - Featuring a secret sauce perfected over time, combining chicken feet and comb for a sweet, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled skewers.
• - Crispy Fried Skewers: Starting from 88 yen - Known for their skilled batter, using finely ground panko for a crunchy texture, with a secret blend of soy milk and soybean flour for extra depth.
• - Large Grilled Chicken Thigh: Priced at 878 yen - Made with domestically sourced, chilled Seiryu young chicken known for its size, juiciness, and rich flavor, ensuring a hearty dining experience.

Torimero Tachikawa Station South Exit Store Details

• - Location: 3-3-7 Shibaseki-cho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo, 2F
• - Contact Number: 042-518-9929
• - Opening Date: March 31, 2026
• - Hours of Operation: Weekdays from 4 PM to 4 AM, weekends and holidays from 3 PM to 4 AM (Last Orders at 3:30 AM). Note: Until April 6, operating hours will end at midnight.

For more information, you can visit the official Torimero website here.

About Watami Inc.

Founded in 1984, the Watami Group has operated in the restaurant industry and has passionately committed to providing customers with safe food materials since 2002 through organic farming. Currently, they manage organic farming and dairy operations across seven locations in Japan, covering a total of 531 hectares. They supply organic vegetables produced on Watami Farms to their homemade kitchens, distributing them through their dining and home delivery services nationwide. Additionally, Watami is engaged in sustainable practices, such as developing renewable energy projects, including wind power facilities, aiming to build a sustainable, circular society. Their unique integrated ‘sixth-sector’ business model drives growth and expands new business frontiers for the Watami Group.

For more information on Watami Inc., visit here.