Tokyo’s bar scene is thriving, offering everything from timeless Japanese classics to cutting-edge mixology. Lately, cocktails infused with local flavors—shochu, sake, and Japanese tea—have been making waves. Elevate your Tokyo nights with expertly crafted drinks at these standout bars.
The Bvlgari Bar, Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo
Yaesu
This sophisticated bar boasts a sleek counter set against an elegant mosaic backdrop, along with a spacious terrace offering 45th-floor views. Ideal for big gatherings, it accommodates up to 100 guests. Embracing the art of craftsmanship, cocktails by Andrea Minarelli—who sources top-tier ingredients from Japanese producers—pair with refined bar bites by Chef Niko Romito, behind the One-MICHELIN-Starred Il Ristorante Niko Romito.
Virtu, Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
Otemachi
World-acclaimed bartender Keith Motsi grew up in the UK, where the cocktail culture was already thriving. Guests love Motsi's witty banter and the convivial atmosphere. Takara (meaning "treasure" in Japanese) is his take on a Manhattan, inspired by the Japanese fairy tale “Momotaro,” using French chartreuse and Japanese “Denki Bran,” an old-school Japanese cocktail mix created in Asakusa.
Mixology Salon
Ginza
Opened in 2017 by renowned mixologist Shuzo Nagumo, this tea-inspired cocktail bar redefines the art of mixology. With a deep understanding of flavor and aroma, Nagumo crafts his signature ‘tea-tails’—six refined, low-alcohol tea cocktails served in wine glasses to enhance their fragrance and lingering finish. Each sip reveals delicate, unfolding layers, offering a modern take on light, sophisticated cocktails.
BAR HIGH FIVE
Ginza
The precision and artistry of Japanese bartending have shaped a globally admired genre: “Japanese-style bartending.” This is the place to witness it firsthand. Owner-bartender Hidetsugu Ueno, a renowned judge of international cocktail competitions, showcases masterful technique—from the shake of a three-piece shaker to the swagger of his stir.
ST LOUIS BAR by KEI
Ginza
A bar born from the legacy of French crystal house Saint-Louis, in collaboration with Three-MICHELIN-Starred chef Kei Kobayashi of Kei. Every detail, from the glassware to the chandeliers, is crafted by Saint-Louis, while the cocktail menu pays homage to tradition with original recipes. Bar manager Riku Suzuki delves into Edo-era history, reinterpreting Japanese flavors with creations like the “Modern ‘Honnaoshi,’” a shochu and mirin-based cocktail inspired by centuries-old recipes. Don’t miss the serene outdoor Japanese garden—a hidden gem in the heart of the city.
Gold bar at EDITION, The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon
Toranomon
Step into a world where pre-Prohibition nostalgia meets a futuristic vision. This bar’s “Duality” theme comes to life through a hidden menu revealed under black light, adding an element of intrigue. Crafted by bar director Hideyuki Sato—whose global expertise shines through—the cocktails blend Japanese spirits with bold flavors, creating an experience that feels avant-garde.
EUREKA!
Nishi Azabu
Eureka!"—named after the exclamation of Archimedes upon a groundbreaking discovery—is led by the Marie Chiba and is celebrated for its innovative pairings of Japanese sake and food. Experience surprising combinations, like blue cheese and ham cutlet paired with "Doburoku" (unfiltered sake), unlocking new flavors. True to its name, this bar invites you to discover fresh ways to savor and appreciate Japanese sake.
The SG Club
Shibuya
This bar offers two distinct experiences across its two floors: the basement “Sip,” where you can sip cocktails with carefully crafted flavors and aromas in a quiet setting, and the vibrant first floor “Guzzle,” ideal for mingling and celebrating, featuring an elevated twist on the classic “Oolong Hai” made with cold-brewed premium Taiwanese oolong tea.
BenFiddich
Shinjuku
Owner-bartender Hiroyasu Kayama blends his roles as both a farmer and a mixologist at this innovative bar, where the concept of “Farm to Glass” takes center stage. Just two hours from Tokyo in Saitama, he cultivates plants like juniper and absinthe, using his harvests to craft his cocktails. Kayama’s global travels inspire his creations, as he sources rare local spirits to incorporate into his drinks. Collaborating with Japan's Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, he also pioneers the development of wood-based alcohol, extracting flavors from wood chips for a distinct drinking experience.
Sakurai Japanese Tea Experience
Omotesando
Shinya Sakurai, a tea expert renowned for his exploration of brewing and savoring Japanese tea, opened a tea shop in Omotesando in 2014. The shop offers a diverse selection, including in-house roasted tea, premium "gyokuro," and the rare fermented "Goishicha" tea, along with expertly crafted tea cocktails. Experience a curated set of gyokuro, blended tea, and four distinct tea cocktails, complemented by traditional Japanese sweets. The calm vibe enhances the experience, providing a perfect setting to relax, take a breath, and awaken your senses.
Hero image: A fresh cocktail at Eureka! (©EUREKA!)
