One of our favorite discoveries of the past couple of months has been Wanoba, a stylish little dining bar in Ebisu that marries contemporary Japanese design with tasty, affordable food and drink — all with a welcoming, easygoing ambience.

When it first opened, just before Christmas, we were immediately impressed by the craftsmanship that's gone into the interior: walls painted black and vermilion; the counter, with its textured surface of lacquered canvas; curiously amorphous handmade lampshades; and a gorgeous wall decoration of washi paper burnished the color of terra cotta.

Now the serving staff have had time to relax into the place, while the kitchen has settled in and has also begun serving lunch (¥1,000; till 2 p.m.). The menu is a mix of Japanese and Western. There's a small array of obanzai (prepared side dishes) on the counter. Vegetables, fish or meat are cooked over a charcoal grill. Daily specials are chalked on the wall by the door, and you can choose between udon or pasta, risotto or fried rice.