Location. Location. Location! Situated off of Akiya Beach in Yokosuka City is a charming Italian eatery named Restaurant DON. With breathtaking views of the beach, DON is especially romantic when Mother Nature grants a view of Mt Fuji at sunset. Conveniently located off of Route 134 and next to Tateishi Park, the shared lot offers free, ample parking for the restaurant, the park and beach goers. Open every day for lunch and dinner, DON is a popular local getaway for special occasions. However, if you’re in the vicinity of Hayama, Zushi, or Kamakura, DON is worth a stopover for a delicious meal, even if it’s not your birthday.
Upon arrival you’ll be greeted by DON's friendly staff and then escorted to the second floor, which is where the main dining area is (the first floor is reserved for Café seating). Before you are seated, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the chefs working hard in the open kitchen as they meticulously prepare each meal. Don’t forget to make a brief stop at the display case of desserts; you’ll want to save some space for the tiramisu!
My last visit to DON was my seventh this year. Out of all the menu selections I’ve tried, my favorite is the Tuna Fish Pepper Steak ¥1,450. Can you say mmm-yum-mmm? Cooked to perfection, the steak is topped off with eggplant, scallions, dried pepper berries and a squeeze of lemon (I actually think this tuna steak outshines the pricey Prime Tuna Steak I had from the world famous New York Grill at Park Hyatt Tokyo). Now, let's talk about the sauce: it is so sensational! It compliments the tuna so well; I always want to scrape the rim of the plate with my finger to savor every last drop. But, I remember to keep it classy. I have eaten the tuna steak alone, but it’s heartier with a small plate of steamed rice. With or without the rice, be sure to pair your meal with DON’s Homemade Sangria ¥850. Infused with just the right amount of wine and fruit, this chilled original cocktail is simply refreshing and outstanding.
I was so excited to talk about the tuna steak and sangria I just bypassed the appetizers! Definitely try to fit an appetizer or two in. A few of our favorites are the German Potatoes ¥650, Bacon Quiche ¥420 and the fried Small Shrimp & Camembert Cheese Spring Rolls ¥710. The serving size for each is pretty small, so relish the flavors slowly. And remember, save room for dessert! Tiramisu is always my go-to dessert and DON’s homemade version is light & airy with a good pop of espresso.
For those driving from Yokosuka Naval Base, take Route 27 and follow the signs to Ashina. Once over the mountain and through the winding road, turn right at the stoplight (Route 134) and head towards Kamakura & Hayama. Restaurant DON is located on the left hand side flagged by maroon banners. You can either park in the few marked spaces right off of Route 134 or drive a few meters ahead until you see the sign for "Tateishi Parking." Plan ahead! Depending on the time of day, your wait can be about thirty minutes before a parking space opens up. Be sure to make a reservation, too. Drive carefully and enjoy!
