Chasing the quintessence of Tokyo's nightlife leads to a metropolis that's not only a gastronomic sanctuary but also a high profile international gourmet cocktail emporium. Recognized for their sartorial splendor and impeccably styled hair, the city's bartenders are masters of their trade, capable of blending a timeless Manhattan that can astonish your palates or prepare an avant-garde concoction like a smoked martini with foie-gras gin and chocolate.
For whisky enthusiasts craving a distinctively unusual nip of Japanese whisky, you'll likely find it at Zoetrope. Conversely, if you're not a fan of hard liquor, Tokyo offers a vast array of distinctive natural wine establishments and modish fetes of sake. Regardless of your preferred tipple, Tokyo promises not to disappoint. Without further ado, we've aggregated a selection of celebrated drinking venues within the city - Tokyo's crème de la crème bars. Prepare to dive into a nocturnal adventure or perhaps even more.
Of course, to fully engage in these indulgent experiences, accommodation plays a significant part in shaping your exploration. Fortunately, from luxurious retreats to chic boutiques, there are ample 4-star hotels in Tokyo that provide convenient proximity to these thrilling night spots. Here, comfort meets style to amplify your unforgettable Tokyo nightlife experiences.
Explore Tokyo's Dual Gem: The SG Club
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Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, The SG Club offers a unique blend of 19th-century saloon aesthetics paired with Japanese charm, distinguishing itself as a dual space - Guzzle, a laid-back bar upstairs, and Sip, a refined lounge below. The spot is a testament to craft and creativity, with cocktails marrying bold innovation and razor-sharp precision. Gokan, the magic maker behind these potions, draws his spark from worldwide voyages: the Aegean Gimlet, a revitalizing mix of gin, pineapple and olive, stands as a testament to this. Similarly, the Amazon to Kagoshima draws on distinctly tangy guava and vetiver, synthesised harmoniously with sweet-potato shochu.
So, exploring the SG Club implies an ever-evolving food and drinks arena. Fresh off of Gokan's inventive whims, you never know what's next on the menu. From spontaneous guest chef appearances to various theme-based food fiestas, there's always a delicious bite to complement these spirited concoctions. This uncertainty and thrill keeps patrons constantly coming back for more.
The Apéro Experience
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Step into the world of natural wines in Tokyo at ApéroArrow, a tranquil and voguish sanctuary created by Chloe and Guillaume Duperier. With its Yves-Klein blue wall accents and roomy window architecture, the establishment introduces an ambiance that’s both chic and invigorating. The subtle glow from the spherical lantern-style lights, paired with meticulously crafted ikebana floral decor, adds a heartwarming touch.
ApéroArrow has become the rendezvous point for locally-based French chefs, traveling European luxury brand directors, and loyal patrons who appreciate organic and biodynamic wines from France and Japan - a community brought together by their shared love for the exquisite. Known for its superb wine list, the bar doesn't compromise on the offered food, presenting a robust menu of sumptuous delicacies. Dishes range from their hearty homemade terrine to thick, crispy fries served with freshly-made mayonnaise.
Additionally, the bar boasts an impressive selection of French and Japanese cheeses. A notable mention is the bamboo-ash-aged cheese sourced from Chiba's renowned Fromagerie Sen. The decadence continues with their weekend brunch, featuring a variety of plates crafted with organic ingredients from local farms, thus supporting sustainable practices. If you are in a celebratory mood, indulge in their free-flow sparkling wine offer for ¥10,000, an irresistible proposition for bubbly enthusiasts.
Hidden Gem: Faramarz
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Delve into the world of premium tequila and mezcal at FaramarzArrow, a clandestine haven nestled next to Udatsu Sushi in Nakameguro. This elusive establishment, signified not with a signboard but a simple sliding door, houses a dazzling variety of high-end tequilas including an assortment of collectibles hailing from Ferri's private collection. A spectacle of Clase Azul's limited-edition vibrant ceramic bottles command attention on the ruby-red, illuminated shelves of the bar. Your journey can begin with a crisp Clase Azul highball, smoothly transitioning to a margarita brimming with the freshness of the season's best fruit.
But the FaramarzArrow experience extends beyond beverages, with a selection of inventive dishes curated by Peruvian savant Chef Ivalu Acurio. The culinary selection, far surpassing the realm of typical bar nibbles, encapsulates intriguing flavours served in bite-sized portions, with the star players being the succulent hamaguri clam ceviche, the homestyle corn empanadas and the tantalizingly spicy pulled pork sandwiches enlivened with shiso and mint leaves, all expertly crafted in a compact kitchen. Perhaps the crowning glory of the establishment is its exclusive tasting menus. Revel in an immersive dining experience, where the mastery of flavourful wagyu steak from Kagoshima and meticulously paired tequila creates a culinary symphony. This splendid gastronomic affair can be secured beforehand for a cozy gathering of up to 10 individuals.
A Glimpse Inside Memento Mori
In the bustling food arena of Toranomon Hills Yokocho, you'll come across a unique establishment resounding with the aesthetic of a tribal healer combined with an innovative scientist's curiosity. The Memento MoriArrow is a cocoa-inspired hotspot sporting walls embellished with dried flower bouquets, counter tops boasting exotic palm-sized cacao pods, and shelves hosting a variety of botanical infusions. Spearheaded by the inventive Shuzo Nagumo, the drink menu exploits all possible utilities of the versatile Amazonian cacao fruit, producing creative concoctions such as the frothy cacao pulp fizz and a sumptuous, cacao-rich Negroni.
Nagumo is known for his collaborative efforts with companies like Cacao Hunters and Maison Cacao, both of which uphold symbiotic relationships with indigenous Colombian cocoa growers. Incorporating fresh locally produced flowers and seasonal fruits, drinks like the peppery leaf tonic and a zesty blend of lemon, rose, and geranium make their way onto this exquisite menu. Despite the lack of a broad main dish selection, the MoriArrow offers a delightful array of fair-trade chocolates and spiced confectionaries that harmoniously complement their creative beverage offerings.
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Discover The Grey Room
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Step into a world of sophistication at The Grey Room, skillfully overseen by the avant-garde bartender, Yukiyo Kurihara. The design of this luxurious cocktail bar harkens back to a classic James Bond movie setup, boasting a blend of natural stone walls, plush leather chairs, and distinct cow-print cushions. Its panoramic windows offer a mesmerizing view of the shimmering skyline of Tokyo's upscale Ginza district.
During the day, The Grey Room attracts high-society women with its popular afternoon tea offerings. However, as evening descends, a post-work clientele fills the space. The bar gains its fame from cocktails that ingeniously infuse Southern Asian spices, creating a melody of flavors.
The unmissable Mumbai Tonic headlines the menu - a fragrant concoction of anise-infused gin and rosemary. Other pride-worthy seasonal cocktails like the velvety mango daiquiri, infused with the unique taste of Darjeeling-flavoured rum, or Kurihara's exquisite French 75 twisted with a hint of saffron, promise a taste experience akin to transcontinental travel.
But the remarkable drinks are just the beginning. Pairing perfectly with your cocktail, the food menu displays a unique blend of Japanese and Indian influences. Signature dishes like the paniyaram – a South Indian snack filled with succulent octopus – and a deep-fried shiso chaat, laden with juicy pomegranate and a drizzle of creamy yogurt, take center stage. For an exciting fusion of flavors, don't miss the Garam masala French fries, a surprising twist on a classic.
Discover Hidden Luxury at the Orchard Ginza
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Hidden on the seventh floor in the bustling district of Ginza is the luxurious Bar Orchard Ginza, an oasis adorned with the warm hues of salmon-pink walls. The interior contrasts with plush white seats, complimented by an intriguing refrigerated display of perfectly chilled glassware. Renowned for crafting fresh fruit cocktails, the bar's exquisite uniqueness as the brainchild of Takuo and Sumire Miyanohara - a power couple in the bartending scene. The duo takes pride in their unique 'basket of fruits' offering instead of a traditional menu, leading patrons into a realm of seasonal selections. The Miyanoharas update age-old favorites with a dash of whimsy, experimenting with cutting-edge techniques such as liquid nitrogen cooling or carbon dioxide infusion, providing an improved, contemporary take on your beloved classics.
Discover Bellwood
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Immerse yourself in the early 1900s Japanese coffee shop vibe at BellwoodArrow, an exquisitely designed bar adorned with contemporary-retro ambience to complement its legacy. As your eyes trail from the unique stained-glass artwork displaying the establishment's name to the impressive depictions of Mount Fuji and a symbolic martini moonlight, the magic seeps in. BellwoodArrow is not only an excellent setting for casual post-work drinks or nocturnal libations, but it has recently added a novel transparent room to carry out a sequence of experimental food and cocktail synergies. Greet your taste buds with the Kome Tonic, a delightful concoction brewed with rice-based shochu, setting a light yet flavorful commencement for your palate tour. BellwoodArrow prides itself on its clever reinterpretations of classic drink recipes, each one served with panache and creativity. Completing your journey are the adventurous options from the seasonal menu: The Tango Mule, a divine dance of gin and Fernet Branca intermixed with roasted mate, or the gritty Okushibu Fashioned, a rich tapestry of bourbon, kinako soy powder and a twist of bitter mugwort.Every experience at BellwoodArrow delights your senses in surprising ways, building momentous occasions out of ordinary evenings. Above all, this swish venue brings together Tokyo's traditional aesthetics and modern cocktail artistry flawlessly, creating an inviting atmosphere that is both relaxed and exciting.
Virtu: Tokyo's Epitome of Elegance and Classic Mixology
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An elegant and exciting destination, Virtu lures in visitors who appreciate a tasteful touch to their evening adventures. You will often find the patrons donned in their best attire, particularly during the twilight hours. The setting of this exceptional bar is distinguished by its theatrical theme, amplified by art deco elements and elevated seating arrangements that offer an interesting view of the eclectic crowd. Joshua Perez, the bar’s expert mixologist, enhances the unique ambiance with spectacularly crafted beverages, thanks to his influential training in flavor profiling at New York’s Booker and Dax.
VirtuArrow's menu is a showcase of creativity and thoughtfulness, featuring seasonal offerings that add to the palatable excitement. In the winter, it is hard to resist the velvety Christmas eggnog that boasts a distinctive spike of Remy Martin 1738. For summer refreshment, Virtu presents a frothy margarita, impressively composed of Lillet Blanc and freshly sourced white peach. Amidst these seasonal delights, the bar's signature Takara holds a special place. This remarkable concoction unites Japanese whisky with chartreuse and a touch of a traditional brandy variant known as Denki Bran. The latter, a Tokyo creation dating back to 1893, adds to the drink's multi-layered appeal and substantiates Perez's commitment to incorporating local flavors and histories into his creations.
A Peek into Another8
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Another8, the Tokyo sibling to the trendy craft beer haven Before9 in Kyoto, charms with its minimalist vibe. Adorned with light wood fixtures that enhance its sleekness, the bar proudly displays eight craft beer taps embedded in a wall mastered with a uniquely textured mud finish. Tucked away on a quiet side street of the laid-back Meguro district, this bar attracts a youthful and fashionable crowd who appreciates its relaxed and cool ambiance, making it an ideal spot for an early evening Japanese beer. This snug hangout space is designed with a stand-up area at the entrance, a handful of tables, and cozy nooks with built-in wall seats.
Experience the Intimacy of Winestand Waltz
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When it comes to boutique wine bars in Tokyo, Winestand Waltz stands out with its limited accommodation for roughly eight patrons. Its somewhat elusive location, requiring a ten-minute navigation from Ebisu station, is all part of its charm. On entering through the sliding glass doors, you'll immediately be taken by the distinct interior featuring Jaques Tati movie posters and a carefully curated selection of natural wines predominantly from France and Italy, resting peacefully in a discrete corner. The engaging owner, Yasuhiro Ooyama, sporting a beard and glasses, keeps his wine list in a constant state of flux to ensure a unique experience with each visit. His preference leans towards wines originating from the Jura region and locally brewed Japanese wines, but his collection also includes an impressive selection from Japanese creators who make their wines in France.
Discover the Allure of Moto Gem
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Soothing to the senses, the aesthetically pleasing Gem, is a must-visit bar situated ideally between Ebisu and Hiroo in Tokyo. True to its name, this space is a hidden gem, specializing in a variety of Sake. Its serene ambiance, accentuated by warmly glowing and uniquely mismatched glass lamps, grants it a distinct charm. One can't help but be drawn in by the white walls, gracefully adorned with black-inked messages from the who's who of the Sake world - a testament to the bar's reputation within the brewery fraternity. The enchanting Marie Chiba, known for her impeccable taste, caters to the relaxed evening crowd. She serves patrons her favorite handpicked brews from renowned boutique producers. Particular mentions worth a sip on a recent tour were offerings from the well-respected houses of Senkin and Jikon.
Experience Trench Bar
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Step into a bygone era of cocktail connoisseurship at Trench Bar, an establishment framed by an exquisite wooden-glass façade, raw brick backdrop, and an extensive archive of intoxicating literature. Pull up a stool and surrender yourself to the accomplished hands of Rogerigo Igarashi Vaz. This distinguished, impressively mustachioed, Japanese-Brazilian co-proprietor and chief barman, manifests an unrivaled Black Manhattan. Challenging conventional cocktail wisdom, this dark delight replaces traditional Vermouth with the unexpected twist of Amaro.
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Discover Gen Yamamoto
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Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Gen Yamamoto, a petite hotspot of Tokyo nightlife featuring just eight seats, each treating visitors to an intimate experience. The standout feature is certainly the elegant, half-millennium-old Mizunara oak bar lending an air of historic grandeur. The bar's namesake prides himself on crafting cocktails with a culinary prowess, placing notable importance on quality ingredients and achieving perfect equilibrium.
Your palate will appreciate the crisp, unadulterated, and undeniably non-alcoholic taste of Yamamoto’s libations. Offering a varied and appealing tasting selection of petite-sized cocktails - choice of four or six - each is a testament to local, seasonal fruit's versatility and freshness. Unprecedented selections of spirits are a hallmark at Gen Yamamoto, elegantly served in exquisite, dainty glassware, further enhancing the overall experience.
Experience Bunon
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If you're searching for an unusual yet elegant wine bar in serene Nishi-Azabu, Bunon might be your next favorite spot. This affectionate nod to nostalgia is set inside a handsomely reimagined traditional Japanese dwelling complete with charming, fan-shaped wall insets and intricately designed wooden lintels. Being in Bunon feels akin to stepping back in time, immersing yourself in a bygone era that you've never actually lived but strangely long for.
This two-storied treasure offers an overhead perch from the upper floor, where guests can marvel at the gleam of the finished wood bar on the lower level. True, the seating arrangement might challenge those used to elbow room, but it's part of Bunon's intimate charm. After all, why would you wish to sit anywhere else when adventure beckons at Bunon?
The Charm of Ben Fiddich
Expensive yet Worth It
Step into the enchanting world of mixology with Ben Fiddich expert mixologist, Hiroyasu Kayama. Known for his impeccable white suit and an impressive array of vintage spirit bottles, Kayama crafts drinks that are just as unique as his look. Using his own special mix of botanical infusions, he manufactures potent homemade variants of popular liqueurs, including the compelling Fernet Branca. Among the gems we discovered during our visit was the Mori Cocktail, a gin-fizz-inspired concoction having a seasonal twist. It combined gin, a selection of fresh herbs, honey, and a touch of carbonated mint tea which added a refreshing pop to the drink. Another highlight was the Nikka Coffey Grain whisky. This was served unusually yet beautifully in a traditional pewter sake cup, blended with coffee water to make a drink so smooth it served as the perfect digestif.
The Ritz-Carlton’s Ambrosial Skybar: The Lobby Lounge and Bar, Tokyo
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Nestled on the 45th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, you will find an exceptional skybar, The Lobby Lounge and Bar, boasting captivating views of the glittering Tokyo expanse. Forget the unassuming title; this high-altitude bar is an extraordinary sanctuary sculpted from dark wood and glass, marrying the modern aesthetics of Japan and the West seamlessly. The resident mixologist, Kentaro Wada, brings both finesse and creativity to this refined space, meticulously crafting unique beverages such as the 'Flower of Delight'. This delightful blend incorporates chamomile-infused gin, floral syrup, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, and the unique addition of egg white.
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Adding to the experience, this lounge-bar also plays host to various international DJs every week - spinning tunes that perfectly complement the laid-back ambiance. Plus, did you know that the Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo is notably one of the tallest buildings in the city? This makes the Lobby Lounge and Bar a perfect locale for an unparalleled view of Tokyo’s stunning cityscape.
Experience Zoetrope
Price: $$$
Raised into prominence by the passionate whisky enthusiast, Atsushi Horigami, Zoetrope stands with its carefully curated library of over 300 varieties of Japanese whisky, manifesting Horigami's commitment and love for the spirit. Among this extensive collection, his repertoire encompasses coveted treasures like the distinctive and aged Kirin Fuji Sanroku single-malt, originating from the Fuji Gotemba distillery, and several selections from the highly sought-after and elusive Ichiro’s Malt card series.
Visiting Zoetrope serves not just as another night for drinks, but as an enlightening encyclopaedia of whisky tasting. Horigami carves out the intricacies of specific Nikka and Yamazaki tastings, offered both horizontally and vertically, and navigates you through the sea of rare, boutique-production drams. Here, you get to experience whisky through the intimate knowledge and seasoned palate of a recognised connoisseur.
New fact 1: Besides its astounding collection, Zoetrope is also known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere that attracts whisky aficionados from across the globe.
New fact 2: A hidden gem in Tokyo, Zoetrope's rare collection includes whiskies from extinct distilleries, lending an almost mystical allure to your tasting experience.
Discover Ahiru Store
Price Range: $
A mere ten minutes from the bustling Shibuya station on a quaint verdant corner, the Ahiru Store stands proud, an unearthed gem for enthusiasts of rare natural wines, predominantly sourced from the vineyards of France. This wine hub takes pride in its unassuming, yet characteristic decor that casually denotes the bar's emphasis on authenticity. Interestingly, the interiors are embellished with discarded wine bottles and autographs from famed representations in the wine industry, such as arresting labels like Domaine de L'Aglore and Pacalet. The day's wine attractions are displayed on a large, somewhat imposing, chalkboard. It's fascinating to witness a throng of dedicated and often beard-donning, natural wine aficionados forming a queue just as the day begins to retire, eagerly waiting for the doors of Ahiru Store to swing open at 6 pm.
Discover Yata
Experience the heart of Tokyo's nightlife at Yata a unique Japanese gem nestled 10 levels above the bustling and vibrant Shinjuku east area. A sense of warmth and inviting light embraces patrons in this intimate setting, known for its specialization in sake. Barely a gap to squeeze in, this ambient hub invites you to claim your spot at one of their distinctive hexagonal wooden tables or nudge your way to their curvaceous counter gazing down at the 'Blade Runner'-like view.
Excite your palate with their ever-changing collection of sake, a nod to Japan's rich heritage. The menu's most desirable feature is surely the tasting flight, an opportunity to sample an array of brews, each representing a distinct flavour profile. Yata offers an undeniably Tokyo experience, merging tradition with urbanism.
Experience the Splendor of Tokyo Whisky Library
Price Range: $$$
The Tokyo Whisky Library, a grandiose masterpiece of brick walls and dark wood, stands as an illustrious entrance to the whisky world. Bathed in the warm radiance of multiple chandeliers and nestled between plush sofas, it presents a spectacular assortment of more than 1,000 whisky varieties from across the globe. Its backlit shelves serve as a stunning tableau, creating an effect akin to a massive installation of glowing amber. At its helm, the globally celebrated mixologist, Michito Kaneko, concocts divine renditions of classic cocktails, such as the timeless Old Fashioned.
Complementing the extensive whisky array, the Library boasts a comprehensive food menu that shall satisfy every palate. From succulent house-smoked meats to flavorful curry, from perfectly cooked pasta to aged steaks, and right up to the most decadent desserts, this gastronomic selection is as impressive as the whisky collection.
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The Exclusive Nikka Blender's Bar
Premium Prices
If you want to explore award-winning whisky at its best, Go to Nikka Blender's Bar. This distinguished bar has an impressive radars, tracing back to 2001 when the remarkable journey of Nikka whiskies began. Appreciate the thrill of yesteryears’ triumphs and today's excellence by savoring the broadest array of the distillery’s whiskies in the capital city of Japan. The tasting flight is an interesting experience where six different types of whisky, in tidy 15ml glasses, are brought to you on a stylish wooden tray. What magic ensues when you blend the robust, "peaty and salty" Number Two whisky hailing from Yoichi with the subdued, "soft and dry" Number Five from Miyagikyo? The answer lies in the heart of this eerie yet satisfying blending process.