The breeze off the bay ruffles the canvas parasols overhead. The soothing, constant lapping of the waves on the nearby rocks drowns out any shouts from the beach beyond. The aroma of woodsmoke wafts out from the kitchen. The oven is primed and ready to go at Pizzeria il Veliero Hayama.

The alfresco experience: Arrive early to snag a spot at one of Il Veliero's outdoor tables. | ROBBIE SWINNERTON
The alfresco experience: Arrive early to snag a spot at one of Il Veliero's outdoor tables. | ROBBIE SWINNERTON

It's no secret that this stretch of coastline on the Miura Peninsula in Kanagawa Prefecture boasts some lovely beaches — in fact, among the finest within easy reach of Tokyo. What's less widely known is that there's plenty of good eating to be found here too. Il Veliero is one of the best of the recent arrivals.