Late-night restaurants - west-side Tokyo
This section covers late-night restaurants (generally places open till 2am or later)
in West-side Tokyo (the Ikebukuro-Ebisu stretch of the Yamanote line and farther west).
Note that some restaurants have later hours only on weekends, and others may close
earlier on Sundays.
The central Tokyo is listed in a separate section.
See late-night restaurant map.
Ikebukuro, Takadanobaba
Phrik (Ikebukuro - Thai). 3984-7273 Very authentic Thai cooking served in a modest little shop. They also run a small Thai grocery store across the street.   Ikebukuro 2-62-6. Open 4pm-3am (LO) daily. | |
This large late-night bar offers an excellent selection of beers from around the world, including some very nice US microbrews, at decent prices. The happy hour from 6-8pm is an especially good deal, with many drinks half-price. The extensive food menu offers varied international fare such as Buffalo chicken wings, tacos, pork chops, pizzas and pastas.   Nishi-Ikebukuro 1-38-5, Seiko Bldg 3F. Open 6pm-3:30am (LO) daily. | |
Zaian (Ikebukuro - Izakaya). 5957-2207 Seasonal fish and vegetables and creative original recipes are well represented on Zaian's eclectic menu. The impressive sake line-up is served either by the glass or by the 1-go tokkuri, or in three-part tasting sets (Y880). Budget around Y5000 for food and drink at dinnertime. There's also a stand-up bar in front in case you just want a quick drink and snack.   Higashi-Ikebukuro 1-31-1, Barack Court B1F. Open 11:30am-2, 5pm-4am daily.
Spicy chicken wings, yakitori and Nagoya miso specialties.   Minami-Ikebukuro 1-20-1, Yokota Bldg. Open 5-11pm (LO; 5am weekends) daily. | |
Butazo (Ikebukuro - Izakaya). 3985-2192 If you find yourself in Ikebukuro with a hankering for umeshu, look no further than Butazo, where giant pig lanterns hover luminously above the main dining space to add a dash of the bizarre to your dinner. Discover eighty kinds of umeshu and almost as many kinds of shochu as you nibble on tasty kushiyaki, miniature nabes and shabu-shabu, in addition to well-prepared izakaya standards. A couple of drinks and some substantial snacks will set you back about Y4000. No English.   Minami-Ikebukuro 2-16-8, Fujihisa Bldg East #3, B1F. (proceed down the spiral staircase of the "Fantasy World" entrance, and Butazo is the middle restaurant) Open 5pm-4am daily. | |
Scrumptious fried chicken wings, yakitori, chicken sashimi and much more.   Minami-Ikebukuro 2-27-8. Open 5pm-1am (LO) daily.
Ippudo (Ikebukuro - Ramen). 6907-8305 A branch of the famous Hakata ramen chain, featuring thin, slightly chewy noodles in a pork-based broth ("red" or "white"), with or without extra chashu. You can add your own freshly grated garlic.   Minami-Ikebukuro 2-26-10. Open 11am-2am (Fri, Sat -3am) daily.
Himonoya (Takadanobaba - Izakaya). 3362-8081 This cozy izakaya specializes in himono (grilled dried fish), with a big menu of different varieties from around Japan. There's also plenty of good regional sake. Budget around Y2-3000 per person.   Takadanobaba 4-11-8, 2F. Open 5pm-4am daily. | |
Ringer Hut (Takadanobaba - Japanese regional). 5338-5934 This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Takadanobaba 4-11-9. Open 11am-3am (Sun -10pm) daily. | |
Late-night cocktails, jazz, light meals, and garlic chips in a relaxed neighborhood bar. Some outdoor seating.  Takadanobaba 1-31-8. (to get there turn right from Takadanobaba station, turn right again and go up the hill past Big Box, keep walking for 5 minutes, then turn right again just before Suwa-dori - it'll be on the left) Open 5pm-3am. Closed Sundays. | |
Late-night cocktails and snacks, with jazz in the background. Terrace seating is available on the first and second-floor cafe areas.   Takadanobaba 1-17-14. Open 11:30am-4am (LO) daily. | |
State-of-the-art Hokkaido-style miso ramen. Occasionally there are lines, but they move quickly.   Nishi-Waseda 2-20-5. (Meiji-dori 2 min. south of Waseda-dori.) Open 11-4am daily. | |
Wasshoi (Takadanobaba - Izakaya). 5273-0267 This cheap and cheerful late-night izakaya serves decent yakitori and izakaya fare and very cheap beer. The sprawling dining areas are usually crowded with Waseda students.   Takadanobaba 1-3-13. Open 4pm-5am daily. | |
Slightly less crowded than the main shop, this branch is just around the corner on Waseda-dori, just east of Meiji-dori.   Nishi-Waseda 3-21-18. Open 11-4am daily. | |
Ippudo (Takadanobaba - Ramen). 5272-0039 A branch of the famous Hakata ramen chain, featuring thin, slightly chewy noodles in a pork-based broth ("red" or "white"), with or without extra chashu. You can add your own freshly grated garlic.   Nishi-Waseda 2-15-7. Open 11am-2am (Fri, Sat -4am) daily. | |
Zanmai (Okubo - Sushi). 5155-6655 This 24-hour branch of the popular Tsukiji-based budget sushi chain offers good value for money.   Okubo 1-1-13. Open 24 hours a day. | |
The unusual specialty of the house is Korean futomaki - fat sushi rolls filled with vegetables, bulgogi, cheese, kimchee, glutinous black rice - some ten variations in all, including a sampler set if you can't decide. The unusual specialty of the house is Korean futomaki - fat sushi rolls filled with vegetables, bulgogi, cheese, kimchee, glutinous black rice - some ten variations in all, including a sampler set if you can't decide.
Rounding out the menu are plenty of Korean standards (and a few not-so-standards) - nice garlicky gyoza dumplings, chijimi pancakes, bibimba and other rice dishes, chige stews, spicy stir-fried pork, and a whole page of noodle dishes - with makkoli, soju and beer to drink. Prices are cheap, and everything on the menu is ready to take out. [Show more] [Show less]   Okubo 1-12-3. Open 24 hours a day. | |
A change of pace from the down-home Korean restaurants and boisterous makkoli bars surrounding it, Festina Lente has ambitions to be a proper cocktail bar. The barman operates his shaker with just the right degree of vigor, and he understands the importance of pre-icing your glass before the pour. On the downside, a very simple drink might take five minutes to arrive even when it's not busy. A change of pace from the down-home Korean restaurants and boisterous makkoli bars surrounding it, Festina Lente has ambitions to be a proper cocktail bar. The barman operates his shaker with just the right degree of vigor, and he understands the importance of pre-icing your glass before the pour. On the downside, a very simple drink might take five minutes to arrive even when it's not busy.
Along with standard and exotic cocktails you'll find Belgian beers and some nice Japanese sake on the menu, along with a basic food menu. The atmosphere is quite chilled-out, and you can relax late into the night if you're so inclined, as they don't close until four or five. In keeping with neighborhood customs, the background music is K-pop shown on a big-screen TV.
[Y300 cover charge; cafe time 1-6pm; bar time 6pm-4am.] [Show more] [Show less]   Okubo 1-16-21 3F. Open 1pm-4am daily. | |
Spicy chicken wings, yakitori and Nagoya miso specialties.   Hyakunincho 2-4-1, Sun Bldg B1F. Open 5pm-3am (LO) daily. | |
While they many not win any awards for their rather basic decor, this late-night shop offers decent curries, friendly service and good value for money. And everything on the menu is available for take-out. If you somehow miss their 5am closing hour, they also have a 24-hour branch nearby (03-5272-6336).   Hyakunincho 2-27-5. Open 11am-5am daily. | |
Shinjuku
La Boheme (Shinjuku Gyoen-mae - Italian). 5366-2242 This spacious multi-level branch of the budget Italian chain is open all afternoon, and convenient when you're visiting Shinjuku Gyoen. | |
La Verde (Shinjuku - Italian). 3341-6124 Very good budget pastas and other Italian fare, a good wine selection and convenient hours.   Shinjuku 3-28-13, Shinjuku Nagashima Bldg. 3F. Open 11:30am-2am (LO) daily. | |
Spicy chicken wings, yakitori and Nagoya miso specialties.   Shinjuku 3-18-4, Seno Bldg 4F. Open 5pm-4am daily.
You'll find great Peking Duck here - just Y3680 for a portion big enough for three or four people - plus a big menu of surprisingly inexpensive dumplings and small-plate dishes.   Shinjuku 3-5-3, Takayama Land Kaikan 6F. Open 24 hours a day.
Superlative izakaya-style fare in a lively, noisy setting. They have an impressive and ever-changing selection of jizake (regional sake), plus good sashimi and grilled fish. Intriguing original creations include maguro kimuchii yukke, made with raw tuna and raw egg and flavored with kimchee and sesame oil. No English spoken.   Shinjuku 3-6-12, 2F. Open 4pm-5am daily. | |
Marugo (Shinjuku - Wine bar). 3350-4605 Choose from about fifteen wines by the glass or bottle, or pick a Latour or Mouton from the back and put it on your expense account. France is amply represented, with biodynamic wines comprising nearly half of the choices on the frequently changing list. While Marugo's laid-back modern interior recalls Manhattan, the tuxedo-clad staff is pure Tokyo. But don't let appearances fool you: the service is mannerly and attentive but never stuffy at this popular Shinjuku 3-chome spot. Choose from about fifteen wines by the glass or bottle, or pick a Latour or Mouton from the back and put it on your expense account. France is amply represented, with biodynamic wines comprising nearly half of the choices on the frequently changing list.
Small plates of olives, anchovy-avocado canapes, and cheeses start at 500 yen; earthy tripe stew and creamy pork and duck liver pate go for about Y700. You can order something more substantial - grilled lamb chops, pasta, or pizza - if you're feeling really peckish. On the fifth of every month the bar features a special selection of premium wines hailing from its namesake, Margaux. Menu in Japanese only, but a little English spoken. [Show more] [Show less]   Shinjuku 3-7-5. Open 5pm-2am daily. | |
This second branch of the popular and always-packed Marugo wine bar serves two dozen wines by the glass, about half of them French, with a new selection every day. The food menu is Italian and very reasonably priced. Get there early to avoid the crowds. [Go to branch review]   Shinjuku 3-9-4. Open 5pm-2am daily.
Dora (Shinjuku - Izakaya). 3226-0919 This basement branch of the Donjaca chain offers a wide menu of izakaya-style fare and Japanese sake. The Japanese dishes are much better than their multi-cultural experiments.   Shinjuku 3-9-5, B1F. (Across from BYGS Bldg.) Open 5pm-5am daily.
Inexpensive jizake (regional sake) and good grilled fish. Seating can get a little cramped during peak hours, so check out the much larger Suehiro-dori branch just around the corner. No English spoken.   Shinjuku 3-9-10. Open to about 6am daily. | |
An excellent late-night ramen shop conveniently located in one of Tokyo's funkier entertainment zones. The thick noodles come in a richly flavored, anchovy-intense broth with big chunks of chashu. A selection of drinks is also available.   Kabukicho 1-1-10-2F. Open 11:30am-3, 6pm-5am. Closed 3rd Sunday.
Friendly service and high-quality shabu-shabu available until the wee hours of the morning.   Kabukicho 1-14-3. Open 11-2am (LO 1:30) daily.
ZuZu (Shinjuku Kabukicho - Bar). 5292-3703 The smart drink list offers eleven choices of popular umeshu like Saika and Kakutama, plus a few liqueurs based on anzu (apricot), yuzu and even decopon (the orange-tangerine hybrid). Lots of shochu, a short but sweet selection of nihon-shu, and oodles of cocktails give you more reasons to sit and linger, while dainty servings of chazuke - twelve kinds, as a matter of fact - and other small dishes provide delicious distractions from the hectic world outside. Budget around Y3000 for drinks and a light meal. No English spoken.   Kabukicho 1-21-2, Itoh Bldg 3/4F. Open 6pm-3am (LO) daily. | |
Hazelburn (Shinjuku Kabukicho - Bar). 5285-1470 Hazelburn offers an impressive line-up of Scottish whiskies, along with English draft ales and well-prepared Scottish and English pub food. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Kabukicho 1-6-6, Hashimoto Bldg B1F. Open 6pm-3am (5am Fri, Sat) daily. | |
Kotatsu (Shinjuku Kabukicho - Ramen). 3202-3996 Miso ramen is the recommended bowl at this late-night shop located in a rather colorful corner of Kabukicho.  Kabukicho 1-8-5. Open 11am-5am. Closed Sundays.
Alps (Shinjuku Kabukicho - Izakaya). 5292-3040 Alps isn't exactly destination dining, but sometimes it's good to know a place where you can just show up with a group of twenty people and no reservation. Plus they're open until 9am every night but Sunday! The Y1500 party menu supplies ample, decent-quality food, and drinks are surprisingly cheap. (Y500 table charge.)   Kabukicho 2-35-2. Open 5pm-9am daily. | |
Nakamoto (Nishi-Shinjuku - Ramen). 3363-3321 The tanmen noodles here are very spicy, but the soup has a depth of flavor the goes beyond one-note hotness. You can pick from several variations, with different levels of spiciness.   Nishi-Shinjuku 7-8-11, Biwara Bldg B1F. Open 9am-2:30am daily.
Himonoya (Nishi-Shinjuku - Izakaya). 3369-8088 One of the few late-night spots on the west side of Shinjuku station, this budget izakaya offers a good selection of sake and a wide range of food, including many varieties of grilled himono (dried fish). Lunch is served until 4pm.   Nishi-Shinjuku 7-10-18, Otakibashi Bldg B1F. Open 11am-5am daily.
Serving relatively expensive German beers and decent pub grub in a cavelike basement, this branch of the Franziskaner group is worth knowing about for their late-night hours.   Nishi-Shinjuku 1-4-6, Ida Bldg B1F. Open 5pm-5am daily. | |
Watami (Nishi-Shinjuku - Izakaya). 5339-2415 This sprawling (330-seat) chain izakaya offers good value for money, and they can often accomodate large groups on short notice. They're also one of the few late-night options in this neighborhood. Budget around Y3000 for food and drink.   Nishi-Shinjuku 1-13-1, Kesa Bldg 3-6F. Open 5pm-3am (Fri, Sat -5am) daily.
Ringer Hut (Nishi-Shinjuku - Japanese regional). 5339-9313 This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Nishi-Shinjuku 1-16-4. Open 24 hours a day.
Imaginative pub-style Japanese food and regional sake at great prices.   Nishi-Shinjuku 1-18-4, Kyoshin Bldg. B1F. Open 5pm-3am (LO) daily.
Open twenty-four hours a day, the Hilton's Marble Lounge offers various special buffets throughout the day, including a dessert buffet with fountains of chocolate every afternoon from 2:30-6pm (Y4200). There's also a breakfast buffet every day from 6:30 to 10:30am (to 11am on weekends), and a "night owl" menu late at night. | |
This spacious, two-story bar from the Brussels chain serves very good Belgian food along with a wide assortment of beers.  Yoyogi 2-20-2. Open 5:30pm-2am (Sat. to 11pm). Closed Sundays. | |
Harajuku
This bistrot branch of the highly regarded L'Artemis restaurant in Jingumae offers a more casual experience and convenient late-night hours. The extensive wine list starts at around Y3000; budget Y4500-7500 for dinner. This bistrot branch of the highly regarded L'Artemis restaurant in Jingumae offers a more casual experience and convenient late-night hours. The kitchen covers the standards very well - excellent grilled lamb and pork confit - but they also turn out dishes we don't often see at the typical bistrot - blood sausage served with chunks of baked apple, avocado-shrimp salad, and an eye-opening red pimento creme brulee.
The extensive wine list starts at around Y3000; budget Y4500-7500 for dinner. Tables are a bit snug, but there's no smoking, except in the tiny garden area out front. The restaurant is very popular with a young local crowd, so advance reservations are recommended. [Show more] [Show less] | |
Artica (Yoyogi - Bar). 3320-3217 Artica is not just a water bar - it's a water jazz bar! There's live music most evenings, with a music charge of Y1000-2000, and a water list featuring more than forty choices. If you want something stronger there's also a diverse cocktail and cafe menu, and inexpensive dishes like curries and pasta.  Yoyogi 1-41-3, 2F. Open 11am-2:30, 6pm-2am. Closed Sundays.
This casually hip bar and sometime music performance space is often open many hours later than the official midnight closing time. No cover charge.   Sendagaya 2-1-8. Open 7pm-midnight daily.
Kowloon (Kita-Sando - Chinese). 3402-0114 The specialty of the house is dragon ramen, made with large chunks of kakuni (stewed pork), tomatoes and octopus. They also offer garlicky gyoza and simple stir-fry dishes, all of very high quality.   Sendagaya 2-1-8. (Meiji-dori, just north of Sendagaya Shogakko) Open 11:30-2am (to 10:30pm Sun.). Open every day. | |
Reissue (Harajuku - Bar). 5785-3144 Plain and simple is the motto of this unpretentious Harajuku cafe-bar. Drinks start at Y500, and kushiage is available from Y80-250 per skewer. At lunchtime they serve Japanese teishoku sets.   Jingumae 3-25-7. Open noon-2am. Closed 3rd Tuesday.
Brussels (Harajuku - Belgian rest/beer bar). 3403-3972 Original pita sandwiches and an impressive assortment of Belgian beers. The big tables can accommodate larger groups than average (5-8 people), but you may have to share a table when they're crowded. There are also a few seats at the bar.  Jingumae 1-10-23. Open 5:30pm-2am (Sat-11pm). Closed Sundays. | |
Famous Kyushu ramen; kakuni (Chinese-style stewed pork) is one of their specialties, and helps explain the long lines at lunchtime. | |
Designed to resemble a stylish Tokyo dwelling (complete with bedroom, living room, and dining room), this popular Harajuku cafe offers shoppers a comfortable place to sit and watch the world go by. Lunch sets from Y840 on weekdays and Y945 on weekends.   Jingumae 1-11-11. Open 11am-midnight (LO) daily. | |
Shibuya/Ebisu
Frames (Shibuya - Cafe). 6415-6822 They bill themselves as an oasis of quiet in the midst of Shibuya's shopping neighborhood, with pretty good food and late-night hours. [Go to branch review]   Udagawacho 13-16, Kokusai Bldg. 2F. Open 11am-4:30am daily. | |
Zest (Shibuya - Tex-Mex). 5489-3332 California-style Mexican food and drinks, served in one of Tokyo's noisiest restaurants. | |
From the owners of the Zest Mexican chain, a lively, fun place serving Southeast Asian dishes. The food is tasty (although not extremely authentic), there's a big bar, and service is friendly and competent. | |
This newest venture from the popular budget Italian chain promises to serve "an Italian mama's home-cooked meals." | |
Kyushu (Shibuya - Kyushu). 3463-0442 This long-established izakaya mini-chain serves excellent Kyushu cuisine and a good assortment of sake and shochu from the southern island. Especially recommended are the Kagoshima-style tonkotsu (pork and daikon stewed in shochu) and a well-balanced Nagasaki-style sara-udon with vegetables and meat served over crisp fried noodles. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Udagawacho 17-2. Open 5pm-2:30am (LO; -11pm Sat, Sun) daily. | |
This cozy Nepalese joint serves up curries, momo dumplings, and assorted mutton dishes all night long (till 5am anyway).   Udagawacho 10-2. (about one minute past Tokyu Hands) Open 11:30am-3, 5pm-5am daily. | |
This cozy Shibuya hangout has a homey feel - literally. The cafe's six sections are all decorated to look like the rooms of a house. Make yourself comfortable in the bedroom, kitchen, or children's room and have a drink or a bite to eat.   Udagawacho 11-6, 8/9F. Open 5pm-3am. Closed Mondays.
It's a bustling cafe-lounge space by day, with late-night dining and DJ club events on weekends. There's free wifi, although it's not exactly a laptop-conducive atmosphere. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Dogenzaka 2-23-12, Shibuya Fhontis Bldg 2F. Open 11:30am-2am daily. | |
Good-value grilled fish, snacks and sake in this lively late-night drinking spot. The specialty is himono (grilled dried fish) from around Japan. Budget around Y2000-3000 per person. There's often a two-hour time limit at tables.   Udagawacho 33-8, B1F. (across from Tokyu honten) Open 11:30am-2, 5pm-5am daily. | |
Arossa (Shibuya - Italian). 3469-0125 One of Tokyo's first Australian-only wine bars, with one of the largest selections of rare and expensive wines from that country. The food is mainly Italian, and consistently good. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Shoto 1-26-22. Open 6pm-2am daily. | |
Kuni (Shibuya - Wine bar). 6415-4592 A slightly more upscale relative of the wine bar Cona that features a standing area on the ground floor, a wine bar on the second, and table seating on the third. All pizza and pasta dishes are Y1000.   Dogenzaka 1-5-5. Open 11:30am-7am daily.
Cona (Shibuya - Wine bar). 3770-5729 It's hard to beat the prices at this casual wine bar in Shibuya. All of the 70+ varieties of wine are available for Y1900. Choose your own bottle from the small glass cellar, or ask for recommendations from the knowledgeable young staff. It's hard to beat the prices at this casual wine bar in Shibuya. All of the 70+ varieties of wine are available for Y1900. Choose your own bottle from the small glass cellar, or ask for recommendations from the knowledgeable young staff.
Thin-crust pizzas come with a variety of toppings (garlic and chorizo, bacon and asparagus, prosciutto and soft-boiled egg) and all can be had for Y500. The space is small and it's standing room only, so try their sister shops Kuni or Voco if you want to sit. Drinks are half price during happy hour from 2pm - 6pm. There's no charge before 6pm, but after that it's Y300 per person. (Open from 4pm weekends.) [Show more] [Show less]   Dogenzaka 2-7-5. Open 11:30am-4:30am (LO) daily. | |
This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Dogenzaka 2-16-7. Open 11am-4am daily.
Hemel (Shibuya - Belgian rest/beer bar). 5918-6939 "Hemel Belgian Beer and Food" lives up to their name - this comfortable wood-paneled bar offers an attractive selection of Belgian and European food to go with their extensive list of over 100 beers.   Dogenzaka 2-16-8, Sakamoto Bldg B1F. Open 5pm-3am daily. | |
Gompachi (Shibuya - Japanese). 5784-2011 Japanese cuisine and a late-night sushi bar.
A few good German beers at sensible prices, along with sausage-and-meat platters. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Shinsen 8-1. (past the top of Dogenzaka on route 246) Open 11:30am-2:30, 6pm-4am daily.
Excellent southern Kyushu specialties made from freshly flown-in ingredients. The tonkotsu-ni, chunks of pork stewed in shochu overnight, was especially outstanding, as was the chawan-mushi. The bar stocks more than 50 different kinds of shochu, and several of the walls are covered with shochu labels and descriptions. The decor is modern and stylish; the crowd is diverse. Budget around Y5000. (No lunch on weekends.) [See FULL REVIEW.] | |
Buchi (Shibuya - Izakaya). 5728-2085 This is the original gourmet stand bar that started the trend - they serve premium sake in attractive one-cup containers along with a huge menu of well-prepared food, all at reasonable prices. There's a sit-down restaurant down in the basement if you start to get wobbly. [Go to branch review]   Shinsen 9-7. Open 5pm-3am daily. | |
Madrid (Shibuya - Spanish). 5459-5507 A two-story late-night Spanish bar and restaurant, with your choice of bar snacks and wines or a complete Spanish meal. The upstairs restaurant has a nice selection of charcoal-grilled meats. They even do breakfast!   Dogenzaka 1-11-3. (behind Tokyu Plaza) Open 8am-4am daily. | |
If you're thirsty for a cachaca cocktail in the wee hours of the night, follow the circle-stamped road past Mark City to Blen Blen Blen. This bone fide Brazilian bar, tucked into a faded white seventies-style building in Dogenzaka 1-chome, seats a maximum of thirty and stays open til 4am. If you're thirsty for a cachaca cocktail in the wee hours of the night, follow the circle-stamped road past Mark City to Blen Blen Blen. This bone fide Brazilian bar, tucked into a faded white seventies-style building in Dogenzaka 1-chome, seats a maximum of thirty and stays open til 4am.
Despite its difficult-to-find location and somewhat forbidding exterior, the space is cute and relaxed, decorated with colorful posters and knick-knacks of all sorts. The Brazilian flag hangs proudly on one wall, while shelves stacked with vinyl records stand beside the bar.
Take a seat and have a chat with Blen Blen Blen's gregarious master, Jukukuchi-san, while you snack on cocinias (Brazilian style chicken croquettes) or grilled chicken and corazon (hearts) and sip on your drink.
The Caipirinhas here are refreshingly tart, and the musical mix of Brazilian, soul, hip-hop, and R&B is fun and funky. The bar hosts DJ and movie events on weekends. [Show more] [Show less]   Dogenzaka 1-17-12, Nono Bldg 2F. Open 8pm-4am. Closed Mondays, some Sunday. | |
This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Sakuragaokacho 2-12. Open 10am-5am daily.
A very unpretentious, comfortably scruffy bar that looks like it's been frozen in time from the late seventies. They have a smattering of interesting beers from England, Belgium, Germany and Czech, plus lots of mixed drinks and bar foods.   Sakuragaokacho 2-9. (underneath JTB) Open 5pm-5am (1am Sundays). Open every day. | |
Tio Tio (Shibuya - Spanish). 5458-4188 This cute and casual tapas bar is popular with the after-work crowd in Shibuya. Start with a glass of fino sherry or a copa de cava for Y500 and ask the staff to shave a few slices off the joint of Jamon Serrano proudly displayed on the counter. Wines by the glass change daily. A few seats are available around the bar, but the front is standing room only.  Sakuragaokacho 16-7, Suzuki Bldg 1F. Open 5:30pm-2:30am. Closed Sundays. | |
Cabotte (Shibuya - Wine bar). 3462-7790 Well off the beaten track in Sakuragaokacho, this cozy little wine bar is a nice place to share a bottle with friends on a rainy evening. There's no wine list - the owner will choose something for you based on your preferences and budget. Wines by the glass are available from Y800, bottles from Y4200. Well off the beaten track in Sakuragaokacho, this cozy little wine bar is a nice place to share a bottle with friends on a rainy evening. There's no wine list - the owner will choose something for you based on your preferences and budget. Wines by the glass are available from Y800, bottles from Y4200.
Food is limited to snacks and small bites: assorted charcuterie, marinated vegetables, potato and tuna salad. While dishes such as garlic-sauteed shrimp and grilled chicken wings (seasoned differently to pair with red or white wine) are surprisingly tasty, they emerge from the tiny kitchen with glacier-like speed. [Show more] [Show less]   Sakuragaokacho 12-5. Open 6pm-2am daily. | |
The Buri group run a couple of popular standup sake bars (Buchi in Shibuya, Buri in Ebisu), and now they've opened a standup French bistrot, with similarly inexpensive food and 100 different wines. If you get tired of standing there's also a sit-down restaurant in back; snacks up front average around Y700, with main courses in the restaurant averaging Y1500. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Shibuya 1-10-12, Miyagi Bldg 2F. Open 5pm-3am daily. | |
Respekt (Shibuya - Cafe). 6418-8144 Cheap prices, stylish decor, good music and a bustling atmosphere have drawn crowds of hip young patrons to this sprawling cafe space in a trendy corner of Shibuya. The kitchen offers entertaining variations on standard cafe fare - Vietnamese sandwiches, pastas, pizzas, rice bowls, and salads - along with some decent California wines by the bottle and a big cocktail list.   Shibuya 1-11-1, 2F. Open 11:30am-2am daily. | |
The interior of this hip Shibuya cafe is a cross between old-fashioned American diner and urban industrial loft, with a big open kitchen and wood- and glass-paneled booth seating. The menu focuses on creative interpretations of modern international diner/cafe fare, and they also offer an excellent breakfast menu, not just in the morning but anytime after 3:30pm until closing hour. The interior of this hip Shibuya cafe is a cross between old-fashioned American diner and urban industrial loft, with a big open kitchen and wood- and glass-paneled booth seating. The menu focuses on creative interpretations of modern international diner/cafe fare, and they also offer an excellent breakfast menu, not just in the morning but anytime after 3:30pm until closing hour.
The Southern Fried Chicken is one of our favorite main dishes here, with juicy flavorful meat inside a thick, crunchy coating - very different from the typical chicken karaage served around town. The country sausage is also exceptional, and a highlight of both the jambalaya main dish and the breakfast menu. The spicy lamb ribs are also unusual and quite tasty, although a bit chewy at times.
The extensive vegetable section includes exotic choices like the very tasty roast corn on the cob, garnished with soy sauce, chili powder, parmesan cheese, sour cream and fresh lime (Y450). The broccoli - flavored with anchovies, almonds, dried tomatoes and heaps of garlic - is a celebration of umami, as are the mixed mushrooms sauteed in garlic butter and clam juice.
The cucumber salad with feta cheese and onions (Y600) is simple but perfectly rendered. The guacamole is well-balanced and fresh-tasting, and the baba ghanoush (identified on the menu as "Lebanese roast eggplant") is as good as anything we've eaten in Middle Eastern restaurants.
Morning or evening, the Power Breakfast (Y1000) is possibly the best breakfast deal in Tokyo - with fried eggs, bacon, fantastic sausage, sauteed mushrooms and spinach, grilled tomatoes, potatoes and cheese. Everything is layered in a deep casserole dish, because a plate wouldn't be enough to handle it all. If you're less ravenous there are lighter items like fruit cups with yogurt and granola, plus Reuben and BLT sandwiches.
One small complaint is that the Japanese-language menu, printed in small type, can be difficult to read; there is however an English-language menu on the restaurant's website that might be worth perusing before you visit.
Drink options include tea and espresso beverages, a full cocktail bar (including ten different mojito variations!) and wines from Y2,800-6,400 per bottle. Background music is an eclectic mix, ranging from down-tempo lounge sounds in the afternoon to more energetic R and B in the evenings, when the place tends to fill up with a young and lively crowd. Budget around Y1500-3000 for food at dinnertime. [Show more] [Show less]   Shibuya 1-17-1. Open 9am-1am (LO) daily. | |
Hokkaido-inspired izakaya fare and drinks, with a very stylishly lit, modern Japanese interior. The dishes are simple but inspired; the smoked salmon has a crisp, almost crunchy skin, and the bamboo shoots are lightly grilled and served with fresh katsuo-bushi. Dinner is around Y3000-Y5000 with drinks.   Shibuya 1-12-24, 707 Shibuya Bldg 2F. Open 5:30-2am (LO) daily.
Nagi (Shibuya - Ramen). 3499-0390 Classic Hakata-style tonkotsu (pork-bone soup) ramen.   Higashi 1-3-1, Kaminito 1F. Open 11:30am-4, 5pm-3am daily. | |
Belgo (Shibuya - Belgian rest/beer bar). 3409-4442 A comfortably cozy little hideaway bar with multi-level seating nooks. Pick your own bottle from the big selection of Belgian and German brews in the refrigerator case. The food menu is limited to light snacks.  Shibuya 3-18-7, Shibuya Ichigokan Bldg. B1F. Open 5:30pm-2am. Closed some Sundays. | |
Coci (Ebisu - Italian). 3442-5151 This stylish two-story cafe-bar looks like a ski chalet that's been sliced along the diagonal, with big windows looking out over the picturesque (at least at night) Shibuya River. Stop in for a late-night drink - there's plenty of reasonably priced wine by the glass or bottle - or a full meal. This stylish two-story cafe-bar looks like a ski chalet that's been sliced along the diagonal, with big windows looking out over the picturesque (at least at night) Shibuya River. Stop in for a late-night drink - there's plenty of reasonably priced wine by the glass or bottle - or a full meal.
The menu is a mix of creative Mediterranean (brussels sprouts stuffed with seafood; pork-belly rilettes) and Thai classics (Isan sausage; green papaya salad). No cover charge; budget around Y3500 for dinner. [Show more] [Show less]   Higashi 3-16-10. Open 11:30am-3, 6pm-2am (4am Fri, 11pm Sun) daily. | |
Afuri (Ebisu - Ramen). 5795-0750 This popular shop is known for their light, "cafe-style" shoyu ramen.   Ebisu 1-1-7. Open 11am-4am daily.
Voco (Ebisu - Wine bar). 3447-8929 Wood-fired thin-crust pizzas for Y500 and wines by the bottle from Y1900 at at this sister shop of Shibuya's Cona.   Ebisu 1-6-1. Open 11:30am-2am (LO) daily. | |
A creamy, richly flavored cheese-tonkotsu ramen is the specialty at this popular shop.   Hiroo 1-1-36. Open 11am-5am daily.
A second branch of the popular cafe, with late-night hours, good food, and good prices. (Formerly called Lenox Saloon.)
Ippudo (Ebisu - Ramen). 5420-2225 The first Tokyo branch of a renowned Hakata ramen shop (they also have a branch at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum), they serve thin, slightly chewy noodles in a pork-based broth ("red" or "white"), with or without extra chashu. You can add your own freshly grated garlic -- you'll find bowls of whole garlic cloves on the counter along with graters.   Hiroo 1-3-13. (along Meiji-dori towards Hiroo, just past the post office) Open 11-4am daily. | |
The decor here captures the feeling of the French countryside, with mirrors everywhere, wood panels, and ducks and a deer head mounted on the walls. The restaurant is connected with Hazel Grouse Manor in eastern Hokkaido, which supplies them with fresh vegetables, seafood and wild game. The decor here captures the feeling of the French countryside, with mirrors everywhere, wood panels, and ducks and a deer head mounted on the walls. The restaurant is connected with Hazel Grouse Manor in eastern Hokkaido, which supplies them with fresh vegetables, seafood and wild game.
You'll find grouse, wild duck and other game from October through January, and Ezo venison year-round. The venison steak with mushrooms and red wine sauce is a standout, and the wild duck was a revelation - pleasantly gamey in flavor and far less fatty than expected. Recommended starters include the four-meat terrine and the foie gras pate with fig.
Wines are from Bordeaux, Burgundy, California and Chile - more than sixty wines in total, at all price ranges. Around Y8,000-10,000 for dinner with drinks. [Show more] [Show less]   Hiroo 1-10-6. Open 5pm-2am. Closed Mondays. | |
The owner of Grape Choice has an encyclopedic knowledge of wine, and his list covers France, Italy, Australia, California, Washington and even Japan, starting around Y5000-6000 and climbing rapidly. Food includes grilled meats and fish, and unusual items like pig's-foot croquettes, squid fritters and cheese fondue with organic vegetables. Budget around Y7000 for dinner with a few glasses of wine. It's a bit of a trek from the station to this dining bar on the border of Ebisu and Hiroo, but wine lovers will find it well worth the walk. The wine list boasts over 250 varieties from around the world - Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and even one from Lebanon - including an impressive selection from California and the Pacific Northwest. Prices by the bottle range from moderate (Y4800 for NV Sokol Blosser Evolution No. 12) to extravagant (Y210,000 for '79 Petrus). Around six wines are available by the glass; selections change daily.
The food menu bills itself as "Japanese-French," and features a number of tasty dishes to accompany the wine. Crispy croquettes filled with oozy, gelatinous pig's feet offer a delightful contrast of textures (Y600). Charcoal-grilled Hoei pork from Hokkaido comes with a small dish of mild vinegar and fresh organic vegetables. The fat from the succulent lamb chop with thyme is removed and grilled separately. Meat can be ordered in two sizes: regular or half portions.
The space is elegant and intimate, service professional but unpretentious. The small private rooms seem to be the default option for seating; there's also a comfortable counter overlooking the kitchen area plus a few more tables. [Show more] [Show less]  Hiroo 5-22-3, Hiroo Nishigawa Bldg B1F. Open 6pm-2am (LO). Closed Sundays. | |
Tasty tropical drinks and Hawaiian and Okinawan snacks.   Higashi-Ebisu 1-26-13. Open 11:30am-2, 5pm-3am daily. | |
Zest (Ebisu - Tex-Mex). 5475-6291 A huge, bustling branch of this popular Tex-Mex chain. The open-air rooftop seating can be very pleasant when the weather is warm. | |
Kurobutaya is a friendly, upbeat izakaya with a stylish flair that sets it apart from run-of-the-mill drinking spots. Distinguishing them even further is their unique menu - they specialize in pork, specifically the "kurobuta" breed that's the most famous of Japan's name-brand pigs. Originally from England, the breed is also known as Berkshire pork, and it's prized for its distinctive flavor and its ample marbling, which gives it a juiciness not found in ordinary pork. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Ebisu 4-9-5. Open 11:30am-2, 5:30pm-2am (LO) daily. | |
Okinawan dishes and steaks. A 150g tenderloin steak is Y2310; budget around Y3500 for an average-sized dinner.   Ebisu 4-9-13. Open noon-3, 6pm-2am daily. | |
A very French-style multi-story cafe with a relaxed atmosphere; they serve light food items and desserts as well as coffee and drinks.   Ebisu 3-28-12. Open 10am-2am daily. | |
Kichiri (Ebisu - Japanese). 5791-1119 Beautiful modern decor and very reasonably priced food and drink; budget around Y3500-4500 at dinnertime.
Cafe Heavens serves up solid bistro fare at friendly prices all day (lunch 11-4, dinner til 11) in a fun and lively atmosphere. The drinks list includes a good selection of organic wines. Large, colorful paintings adorn the walls, and the space has an airy, northern California feel.   Ebisu-Nishi 1-16-15. Open 11am-4am daily. | |
It's easy to appreciate the beauty of Bar Guapos, where Y1500 is enough for a glass of tinto or blanco and one or two tasty tapas. There are about fifteen Spanish wines on the drink list, plus a number of Sherries. It's easy to appreciate the beauty of Bar Guapos, where Y1500 is enough for a glass of tinto or blanco and one or two tasty tapas. A complimentary dish of grana cheese, scooped directly out of the gigantic wheel on the counter, will give you something to nibble on as your contemplate your next order. There are about fifteen Spanish wines on the drink list, plus a number of Sherries.
Check out the daily specials written on a blackboard at the back of the bar, or stick with the favorites on the regular food menu. Stuffed mushrooms arrive sizzling in their ceramic dish; adorable ham croquettes come topped with a dab of tomato sauce. Burnt-orange walls and flamenco music add to the Iberian flavor, but you don't have to habla Espanol to get a drink: the affable bartender speaks very fluent English. There are a few seats, but it's mostly standing. [Show more] [Show less]   Ebisu-Nishi 1-3-8. Open 5pm-3:30am (LO; 5-11:30pm Sun, Mon). Open every day. | |
A bit of Roppongi nightlife dropped into Ebisu - live bands, English beers (mostly bottled), and inexpensive, filling pub dishes like shepherd's pie.   Ebisu-Nishi 1-13-3. Open 5pm-2am (LO 1-ish). Closed Mondays. | |
This stylish little late-night stand-up bar serves a nice variety of hot and cold Spanish tapas and pinchos (small snacks on bread), along with Spanish wines. Most food items are Y250-500, with wines from Y400/glass.   Ebisu-Nishi 1-13-5. (near Ebisu Jinja) Open 5pm-5am (midnight Sundays). Open every day. | |
Buri (Ebisu - Bar). 3496-7744 This stand-up bar specializes in one-cup sake from around the country; the selection perhaps isn't as exciting as a regular sake bar, but the atmosphere is convivial and the shop makes a good first stop on an Ebisu tour.   Ebisu-Nishi 1-14-1. Open 5pm-3am daily. | |
An attractively appointed gourmet izakaya serving top-quality food and drink.   Ebisu-Nishi 1-14-9. Open 11:30am-4, 6pm-2am daily. | |
If you're in the mood for fantastic fresh fish and seafood, Ebisu Kaigan is the next best thing to an early-morning trip to Tsukiji Fish Market. Occupying a renovated old Japanese house, this cozy little restaurant (whose name means "Ebisu Beach") exudes a relaxed and homespun atmosphere. You can take your dinner at the counter downstairs while you chat with the chefs, but the second-floor tatami-mat area is even more fun - it almost feels like you're visiting friends or relatives at their beach house as you enjoy the best of the day's catch. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Ebisu-Minami 3-4-1. Open 5pm-1am (LO; -11pm weekends). Open every day. | |
The wide menu here covers a lot of ground, but particularly notable are the top-quality meat dishes featuring Hokkaido lamb, game birds and gourmet pork. The cozy dining room has mostly counter seating, with two small hori-kotatsu tables. Budget around Y4000.   Ebisu-Minami 1-2-8. Open 6pm-3am (LO; 10pm Sun) daily. | |
The impressive sake list includes a number of small-kura limited-edition seasonal sakes; there's also plenty of shochu. The food is also top-notch, with unusual specalties like satsuma-age (Kyushu-style fish cakes, here available in eight different variations). [See FULL REVIEW.]   Ebisu-Minami 2-3-14, Conze Ebisu 2F. Open 4:30pm-5am (to 10:30pm Sundays). Open every day. | |
  Ebisu-Minami 1-16-12, ABC Mamies Bldg 3F. Open 24 hours a day. | |
Holy (Daikanyama - Cafe). 5456-3363 This spacious cafe offers an eclectic menu of drinks, food and music. It's a comfortable place to hang out, and dogs are allowed.   Ebisu-Nishi 2-19-8. Open 11am-2am daily. | |
Frames (Daikanyama - Cafe). 5784-3384 A very spacious, relaxing place to while away some time. Wine and other drinks are relatively inexpensive, and there are plenty of light dishes to nibble on. Pets are allowed, and dog biscuits and water bowls are available. A spacious cafe with big windows looking onto the street, Frames attracts a fashion-conscious young crowd most of the day and night. (They're located just above a basement club called Air.) A seriously stocked cocktail bar takes up much of the back wall, and there's a full Italian-style food menu - good pastas, carpaccio, salads and that sort of thing. Carafes of Australian wine are very reasonably priced.
Besides its other attractions, this seems to be the center of Tokyo canine society - there are usually dogs of all shapes and sizes scattered through the cafe, mutually sniffing greetings but generally well behaved. Water bowls and dog biscuits are provided (and it's just a short walk up the block to Three Dogs Bakery for more substantial doggy snacks). [Show more] [Show less] | |
The tempting menu on the Hacienda features down-home Mexican dishes like shrimp and tuna ceviche, menudo (stewed beef stomach), and queso fundido (cheese fondue), plus Tex-Mex standards like enchilada and fajitas. There's a big selection of cocktails, and most wines are Y2500/bottle. The big (30-seat) rooftop terrace area offers pleasant open-air seating with a view.   Sarugakucho 10-1, Mansard Daikanyama Bldg 9/10F. Open 11:30am-3am (LO) daily. | |
Budget-priced pastas and other Italian fare. | |
A branch of the Nishi-Azabu and Shibuya Monsoon Cafes, with eclectic Asian cuisine.
West Side
Zinc (Nakano - Belgian rest/beer bar). 5343-2164 (Pronounced "Zanc") A friendly neighborhood bar with a good assortment of Belgian beers, an electronic dartboard, and simple Japanese/Korean snacks.   Arai 2-30-11. Open 5pm-5am daily. | |
Caravin (Nakano - Wine bar). 3388-0929 A small wine bar with a limited food menu and late-night hours.   Nakano 5-36-3, Takaden Nakano Bldg B1F. Open 7pm-4am (LO) daily. | |
The building may look like it's falling apart, but the bar itself is quite cozy and comfortable. It's run by a Buddhist monk, and he sometimes puts on CDs of Buddhist chanting as background music.  Nakano 5-55-6, 2F. Open 7:30pm-4am. Closed Sundays. | |
This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Nakano 5-61-6. Open 10am-3am (Sun -1am) daily.
Navel (Nakano - Wine bar). 5340-5808 Despite the close quarters, Navel is a relaxing place to enjoy a couple of drinks and a bite to eat. Around ten wines are available by the glass (Y300-), and selections change daily. This tiny wine bar occupies a sliver of space in the basement of an easily overlooked building, one minute away from Nakano station. It's a counter-only affair, and despite the close quarters, Navel is a relaxing place to enjoy a couple of drinks and a bite to eat. Around ten wines are available by the glass (Y300-), and selections change daily. There's no wine list, but the friendly and knowledgeable bartender will recommend one for you based on your preferences.
Like the bar itself, the food menu is small, but all of the dishes are reasonable (Y399-) and nicely done. Tasty snacks like homemade sausage patties, melted Camembert cheese, and grilled seafood are prepared on a diminutive iron griddle behind the counter.
In addition to wine, there is a large selection of distilled spirits - from single malts to unaged corn whiskey, and a range of eaux de vie. If you understand Japanese and you're curious about the difference between Cognac and Armagnac, tequila and mescal, or grappa and marc, this is a good place to ask. The bartender will be happy to expound on the topic. [Show more] [Show less]   Nakano 2-30-8, Tachikawa Bldg B1F. Open 5pm-4am daily. | |
A very casual local (non-standing) bar with reasonably priced wines. Most food items are priced at Y400 and come in tiny, bite-size portions.   Nakano 3-35-6. Open 5pm-3am daily. | |
This budget chain serves two kinds of Nagasaki-style noodles - sara-udon (crisp fried ramen noodles topped with vegetables, pork and seafood in a thick sauce), and Nagasaki champon (similar to the above but in a pork-based soup). Side dishes include gyoza dumplings (regular, cheese, and mentaiko-cheese) and fried rice.   Nakano 2-29-6. Open 11am-3am (Sun -midnight) daily.
A large, lively izakaya that occasionally hosts performances of Okinawan musicians. There's a long counter and big tatami mat area - both usually packed. The staff wear Okinawan costumes, there's non-stop Okinawan music in the air, and the counter is decorated with cans of Spam, taco sauce, and other Okinawan delicacies. The food is wonderful and fairly cheap - highlights include their goya champuru, goat soup, and the papaya pickled in miso. The drinks menu includes original awamori cocktails and Okinawan microbrew beer.   Koenji-Kita 3-2-13. (located along the shopping street on the north side of the station) Open 5pm-5am daily. | |
With its overhead backlit menus and unpretentious furnishings, this late-night joint looks like a cross between a fast-food stand and a Chinese noodle shop. The unusual specialty of the house is Korean futomaki - fat sushi rolls filled with vegetables, bulgogi, cheese, kimchee, glutinous black rice - some ten variations in all, including a sampler set if you can't decide. With its overhead backlit menus and unpretentious furnishings, this late-night joint looks like a cross between a fast-food stand and a Chinese noodle shop. Posters and framed photos of Korean boy bands decorate the walls, and nonstop K-Pop plays in the background.
The unusual specialty of the house is Korean futomaki - fat sushi rolls filled with vegetables, bulgogi, cheese, kimchee, glutinous black rice - some ten variations in all, including a sampler set if you can't decide.
Rounding out the menu are plenty of Korean standards (and a few not-so-standards) - nice garlicky gyoza dumplings, chijimi pancakes, bibimba and other rice dishes, chige stews, a page of noodle dishes - with makkoli, soju and beer to drink. Prices are cheap, and everything on the menu is ready to take out. [Show more] [Show less]   Koenji-Minami 4-25-4. Open 11am-3am daily. | |
Splendid food, with generous portions. The decor is on the casual side, featuring exotic musical instruments and burlap bags, and tables are spaced widely enough to provide a little privacy. There's a good selection of salsa on the stereo, a large drinks menu, and they're open late.   Nishi-Ogi-Minami 3-15-14, 2F. (on the south side, alongside the JR tracks in the direction of Ogikubo station) Open 6pm-2am (LO). Closed Mondays, third Tues.
A stylish late-night bar with a cross-cultural menu. Dishes include 5-cheese pizza with pine nuts, venison carpaccio, teriyaki duck with roast potatoes, and baked shrimp with garlic and lemon grass (all in the Y1,000-1,500 range). Kendall Jackson Chardonnay runs Y6,000 a bottle.   Kichijoji Honcho 1-10-3, B1F. (close to Seibu Sport) Open 6pm-2am daily.
Spicy chicken wings and yakitori; one of four Toriyoshi branches in the neighborhood.   Kichijoji Honcho 1-14-8. Open 5pm-midnight (LO) daily. | |
Ippudo (Kichijoji - Ramen). 0422-23-8186 A branch of the famous Hakata ramen chain, featuring thin, slightly chewy noodles in a pork-based broth ("red" or "white"), with or without extra chashu. You can add your own freshly grated garlic.   Kichijoji Honcho 1-18-1, Kichijoji New Plaza Bldg B1F. Open 11am-4am daily.
Spicy chicken wings are the specialty, but they have every other kind of chicken dish as well, from yakitori to chicken sashimi.   Kichijoji Minamicho 1-1-10, MA Bldg. 1F. Open 5pm-2am daily. | |
Set up to handle the overflow from the nearby main branch.   Kichijoji Minamicho 1-1-5, Chudai Bldg. 2F. Open 5pm-1am (LO) daily.
Holic (Kichijoji - Beer bar). 0422-49-6638 An unpretentious basement bar stocking an excellent selection of craft beers from Japan (particularly Baird and Hitachino Nest) and around the world.   Kichijoji Minamicho 1-1-8, Keyaki Bldg B1F. Open 7pm-5am; Sat/Sun 6pm-5am daily. | |
A stylish but comfortable neighborhood cafe with free WIFI and a simple cafe-style food and drink selection.
Inexpensive Tex-Mex standards - burritos, tacos, quesadillas - and some unusual US microbrew beers. There's also a cigar menu. Note that at lunchtime they serve mostly steaks, and no Tex-Mex.   Hatagaya 2-56-1. Open 11:30am-2:30, 5pm-3am (LO) daily. | |
Ippudo (Meidaimae - Ramen). 5358-2033 A branch of the famous Hakata ramen chain, featuring thin, slightly chewy noodles in a pork-based broth ("red" or "white"), with or without extra chashu. You can add your own freshly grated garlic.  Matsubara 2-46-6. Open 11am-2am daily.
Aglio (Shimo-Takaido - Bar). 5300-1955 A cozy, warm bar with a nice selection of Belgian beers and also several wines by the glass (surprising for a beer bar).   Matsubara 3-42-1. (30 sec. from Shimo-Takaido station) Open 6:30pm-1am (LO) daily. | |
A little neighborhood shop serving okonomiyaki and Tokyo-style monjayaki, plus meats and seafood grilled teppanyaki-style. What sets them apart, though, is their menu of imported German beers - Edelweiss, Schneiderweise, Frankenheim and Krombacher to name a few - which are well-suited to the food.   Yoyogi 4-50-6. Open 5pm-1am (LO) daily. | |
Gaya (Yoyogi-Uehara - Izakaya). 3481-5255 A cozy, friendly neighborhood izakaya with good fish and oysters in season.   Nishihara 3-11-6, Sugimoto Bldg. B1F. Open 5:30-11pm (LO; to 2am Thu-Sat.) daily.
With its spacious, lively dining room, convenient late-night hours, huge bar and wide-ranging food menu, Fireking has established itself as the hub of Uehara nightlife since its opening in 2000. It's busy until late at night with an eclectic and hip crowd.   Uehara 1-30-8. Open 11:30am-2am daily. | |
Dish (Yoyogi-Uehara - Wine bar). 5465-6455 In laid-back Yoyogi-Uehara, magazine-reading, designer sneaker-wearing hipsters gather at Dish, a cheerful cafe just a stone's throw from the station. The space has an open, casual feel, decorated with urban mod flourishes - colorful sofas, fiberglass bucket chairs, and sixties-era bric-a-brac - that recall San Francisco's Mission district or Williamsburg in Brooklyn. Bouncy ska and Cuban R&B keep the mood lively, and original art is exhibited along the right-hand wall. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Uehara 1-33-16, Otsuka Bldg 2F. Open 11:30am-3am daily. | |
440 (Shimo-Kitazawa - Bar). 3422-9449 This live music venue also serves lunch and keeps their bar open until 3am.   Daizawa 5-29-15. Open 11:30am-3:30 (LO), 5:30pm-3am daily. | |
A three-story Okinawan restaurant - the first floor has a noodle-shop atmosphere, with inexpensive Okinawan soba. The second floor is more of a nomiya, with some 50 different types of awamori; while the third floor is more of a Western-style bar. The same food menu is available throughout, with nicely prepared Okinawan standards.   Daizawa 5-32-7. Open 6pm-1am. Closed Mondays. | |
The decor here is all earth tones, raw concrete and slabs of wood, with a big tree sitting right in the middle of the floor. Music ranges from reggae to laid-back rock, and the atmosphere is totally chilled-out - people talk in hushed voices, which may be exactly what you need when you stumble in here at 3am. It's "cafe time" from 2-7pm, with coffee and cake. No table charge; no English.   Kitazawa 2-14-1, OT Bldg 3F. Open 2pm-5am daily. | |
They've pulled out all the stops to recreate the feel of an open-air Italian caffe-bar here - barrel tables, chalkboard menus, old advertising posters, grafitti on the walls, hams hanging from the ceiling, with Italian radio providing the soundtrack. They've pulled out all the stops to recreate the feel of an open-air Italian caffe-bar here - barrel tables, chalkboard menus, old advertising posters, grafitti on the walls, hams hanging from the ceiling, with Italian radio providing the soundtrack.
The eight wines by the glass go well with the carpaccio of the day (served with tangy fresh rocket leaves) or the Y1000 cold-cut platter (generous portions of prosciutto, salami and speck). Other choices include grilled meats, antipasti and salads, with huge pints of Belgian Hoegaarden white beer a refreshing alternative to wine. [Lunch from 11:30am on weekends.] [Show more] [Show less]   Kitazawa 2-14-14. Open 3pm-2am (LO) daily. | |
Cheap and cheerful are the bywords at this Osaka-based yakitori chain, with all dishes and drinks priced at Y294. Besides the usual yakitori (the wings are suprisingly good) there are entertaining items like Indian-inspired naan pizza, camembert croquettes (served with extra butter), and a good selection of fresh vegetables. The shop attracts a young crowd, and it fills up pretty quickly, so get there early or be prepared to wait on line.   Kitazawa 2-19-17, Sawadaya Bldg 2F. Open 6pm-3am (LO) daily. | |
Asso (Shimo-Kitazawa - Cafe). 3413-0220 Open-air seating, late-night hours and a dog-friendly policy are some of the attractions of this back-street cafe. There's an eclectic food menu (tasty roast duck, avocado caprese, pizzas), assorted beers, cocktails, and wines.   Kitazawa 2-3-6. Open 11:30am-2am daily. | |
An extensive vinegar menu is one of Marusan's quirky features: they list several pages of oddly compelling vinegar-based cocktails and soft drinks, and even the food menu has a vinegar soup section (punnily listed as "su-pu"). The atmosphere is laid back, with comfortable sofas and jazz on the stereo. All the food we tried was top-notch; our champuru stir-fry filled with lots of fresh vegetables and our tender grilled chicken set off by an excellent spinach sauce.   Kitazawa 2-8-5, AN Bldg 3F. Open noon-3am daily. | |
This tiny, ramshackle hole-in-the-wall is a late-night Shimo-Kitazawa legend, going strong since 1974. The space behind the bar is filled with mountains of CDs and shelves of vinyl (many of them 70s UK glam rock and local Japanese bands), and the seating area is so small that you have to step outside to let other customers in and out. When you order a drink the bartender telephones the similarly dilapidated sister bar just upstairs (Trouble Peach) and they deliver. (Y400 cover charge.)   Kitazawa 2-9-18. Open 8pm-8am daily. | |
Apollo (Shimo-Kitazawa - Bar). 090-2906-8082 This tiny basement bar hosts live performances from local jazz musicians a few evenings a week, and plays a wide assortment of jazz CDs and videos the rest of the time.   Kitazawa 2-9-22, Eiko Shimo-Kitazawa Bldg B1F. Open 8pm-3am daily. | |
Ushi-Tora (Shimo-Kitazawa - Beer bar). 3485-9090 Ushi-tora is a specialty beer bar that attracts Japanese connoisseurs from all over town with its collection of twenty beers on tap, most of them local microbrews. We recommend the Yona Yona Real Ale, one of three traditional cask-conditioned "real ales" that are hand-pumped. Ushi-tora is a specialty beer bar that attracts Japanese connoisseurs from all over town with its collection of twenty beers on tap, most of them local microbrews. We recommend the Yona Yona Real Ale, one of three traditional cask-conditioned "real ales" that are hand-pumped.
The small food menu is good and inexpensive, with tasty beer-friendly dishes like deep-fried octopus, fish and chips, spicy fried chicken and shepherd's pie. The atmosphere is quiet and low-key, and service (in Japanese) is friendly and helpful. Beers rotate frequently, so every visit can be a new experience. [Show more] [Show less]   Kitazawa 2-9-3, Miku Bldg 2F. Open 5pm-2am. Closed 1st and 4th Tuesdays. | |
The Cajun dishes here (gumbo, catfish po-boys) are better than your typical late-night bar fare; the chicken stewed in beer is our favorite. Nearly everything on the menu is Y500, including cocktails.   Kitazawa 3-21-5. Open 6pm-2am (Fri, Sat -4am). Closed Wednesdays. | |
This tiny bar serves inexpensive cocktails and offers a small food menu - chicken curry, taco rice, pizza. In the daytime it's called Curry Tarot Cafe on weekdays (with curries and tarot readings) and Cafe Here Scenes Friday through Sunday.   Kitazawa 3-31-5. Open 8pm-4am daily. | |
A friendly neighborhood hang-out with a selection of sake and a few Japanese microbrew beers, along with appetizing izakaya-style dishes.   Ikejiri 3-3-3. Open 5pm-5am daily. | |
Zest (Ikejiri-Ohashi - Tex-Mex). 5486-0321 California-style Mexican in a fun setting.
Lo (Sangenjaya - Izakaya). 6380-2771 Hearth-grilled skewers of meat, seafood and vegetables are the draw at this stylish izakaya, including several types of name-brand pork. They also serve up creative tapas-style starters like their terrine made with ten different organic vegetables, and their three-part smoked platter of the day. Budget around Y3000 at dinnertime.   Taishido 4-29-15. Open 6pm-2am (Sat -5am; Sun -midnight) daily. | |
Teppen (Sangenjaya - Italian). 6805-5773 This friendly wine bar has a lively atmosphere and a neighborhood feel. Although interior is fairly large (and certainly bigger than it appears from the entrance), the counter setup with its display of tapas-style daily specials gives it a cozy feeling. This friendly wine bar has a lively atmosphere and a neighborhood feel. Although interior is fairly large (and certainly bigger than it appears from the entrance), the counter setup with its display of tapas-style daily specials gives it a cozy feeling.
The daily menu features well-prepared Italian-Mediterranean trattoria fare like home-made ratatouille, escabeche of sardines, steamed mussels, and an acqua pazza of the day. There's a selection of organic wines from Italy, France and Japan, with around ten by the glass.
The dining room is non-smoking until around 12:30am; after that it's "bar time" with a more limited food menu until 4am. [Show more] [Show less]  Sangenjaya 2-14-19. Open 6pm-4am (LO). Closed Sundays. | |
Ayu Ramen (Futago-tamagawa - Ramen). 3708-0134 As the name implies, Ayu Ramen specializes in noodles with grilled ayu (sweetfish), served in a lightly flavored soup so as not to overpower the delicate ayu taste. You can order a yaki-onigiri rice ball to soak up the flavors of any remaining soup. In the summertime they're also open for lunch from 11:45am-3pm, or until their soup runs out.   Tamagawa 3-15-12, Tamagawa Sanchome Mansion #102. Open 11:45am-3, 6pm-1am daily. | |
A casual bar/ cafe/ restaurant with a very varied but always appealing izakaya-style menu, with dishes like beef cheeks stewed in beer, Vietnamese spring rolls, and a lavishly constructed Salad Nicoise. The drinks list is similarly eclectic, with very reasonably priced wines.   Tamagawa 3-23-24, B1F. Open 6:30pm-3am daily. | |
Fairly decent Italian fare (pastas, grilled fish, antipasti) served in small portions. Drinks are on the expensive side.   Tamagawa 3-12-13. Open 5pm-5am. Open every day. | |
Reliable food, reasonably priced wines, late-night hours and glitzy decor are the draws at this suburban venture from the Rigoletto group. The food menu features pastas, pizzas, and small tapas dishes priced at Y300 and Y500.   Tamagawa 2-21-1, Rise SC Station Market. Open 11am-4am daily.
Buzenbo (Naka-Meguro - Japanese). 3710-5425 At first glance this elegant space looks like a typical cafe - artful ikebana arrangements on the eight small white tables, a small counter, and Bossa Nova music playing softly in the background. So it may come as a surprise to learn that they offer more than just good espresso - they also have excellent Kyushu-style udon noodles. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Higashiyama 1-11-15. Open 11:45am-2:30, 7pm-2am daily. | |
Kinsai (Naka-Meguro - Izakaya). 5725-9025 A casual bar-restaurant from the folks who brought us the original gourmet stand-bar, Buchi, and its French cousin, Bongout Noh. Drinks include wine by the glass and plenty of premium sake brands, and the food menu covers seafood, charcoal-grilled meats, tofu and vegetables, with dishes like foie gras and daikon miso dengaku (Y1400).   Aobadai 1-27-12. Open 5pm-1am daily. | |
Excellent charcoal-grilled meats and vegetables are served here with Korean-style sauces and side dishes. The quality of the meats is first-rate, and there are lots of grilled and stewed organ meats. Drinks include flavored Korean makkoli (sweet, cloudy sake) plus sake and shochu. The spacious counter is warm and comfortable.   Higashiyama 1-6-16. Open 6pm-2am (LO; Sundays 10pm) daily. | |
Spray (Naka-Meguro - Izakaya). 6415-9100 This stylish, modern izakaya offers an array of European and Japanese dishes - liver pate, fried oysters, braised beef cheeks - as well as the Napolitan-style pizza that has spread like wildfire across Naka-Meguro. The copper steins used to serve beer are a nice touch. Budget around Y5000 per person.   Kami-Meguro 1-14-9, ST Sakurabashi A 1F. Open 5pm-5am. Closed Mondays. | |
This late-night riverfront cafe offers a casual Italian-Mediterranean menu and open-air seating up front.   Kami-Meguro 1-5-10, Meguro Mansion 106. Open 11:30am-2:30am (LO) daily. | |
This riverfront "designer izakaya" serves both Japanese and European dishes and drinks, including sake and shochu. Dinner is around Y5000 at dinnertime with drinks.   Kami-Meguro 1-5-10. Open 6pm-1am (LO) daily. | |
Kochi (Naka-Meguro - Kyushu). 5722-2778 This busy shochu specialist, with room for only 25 (including the outdoor seating that spills out onto the sidewalk), features over 100 varieties, along with Kagoshima style cooking. Nibble on izakaya standards like grilled chicken and buta no kakuni, or more unusual items like chicken sashimi. Budget around Y4000.   Kami-Meguro 1-4-3. Open 6pm-1am (LO) daily. | |
Red Book (Naka-Meguro - Cafe). 3710-3438 This tiny cafe serves tasty curries and dirt-cheap beer all day long. Choose from chicken, keema, or one of their daily specials (from Y650). The sea green walls scream Bangkok, while the single chandelier and squat velour bar seats seem lifted from New Orleans' French Quarter. Together with the tattooed, fedora-wearing clientele, the atmosphere is pure Tokyo.   Kami-Meguro 1-3-2. Open 11:30am-2am daily. | |
Combine (Naka-Meguro - Cafe). 3760-3939 Tucked into a leafy lane along the Meguro River, Combine feels rather like a hidden gem. Reminiscent of a converted loft, the industrial concrete and aluminum interior is tempered by velveteen chairs that encourage lounging and a marvelous bookcase that dominates the west wall. Tucked into a leafy lane along the Meguro River, Combine feels rather like a hidden gem. Reminiscent of a converted loft, the industrial concrete and aluminum interior is tempered by velveteen chairs that encourage lounging and a marvelous bookcase that dominates the west wall.
Most of the books are art and design focused, and in Japanese, but customers are free to browse at their leisure. Large open windows lend the space an airy feel. The afternoon crowd is a mixed bag of bookworms, impeccably dressed older ladies, and the requisite table of fashion-industry hipsters.
Lunch sets, available from noon-3pm, change daily and cost about Y1000 each. The ethnic-inspired fare is surprisingly healthy and tasty. Seafood pho comes loaded with vegetables and spiked with fried garlic. Salads are generously sprinkled with cashews. Teatime runs until 6pm, after which Combine turns into a bar serving food and drinks until late. Check their website (www.combine.jp) for DJ and live music event info. [Show more] [Show less]   Naka-Meguro 1-10-23-103. Open noon-4am (food LO 2am) daily. | |
Cecil B (Naka-Meguro - Bar). 3713-6613 It's an early-sixties swinging bachelor pad, with charmingly kitsch decor and a nice collection of vinyl R and B spun on their old-fashioned record player. Drinks are reasonable, and there's a small food menu if you're in the mood for some grub, daddy-o.  Kami-Meguro 3-7-5-102. Open 7pm-4am. Closed Sun, 1st and 3rd Mon. | |
A late-night cafe with free WIFI. The reasonably priced food menu includes dishes like four-cheese pizza (Y1200), jasmine fried rice (Y800), and shrimp and mussels au gratin (Y1000).
A friendly, casual little spot with some of the better Mexican fare available in town. [See FULL REVIEW.]   Kami-Meguro 4-10-4. Open 6pm-2am. Closed Wednesdays. | |
Bar Agrado (Naka-Meguro - Mediterranean). 6659-7223 Tapas and grilled items, a good selection of sherry, plus around 5 wines by the glass are available at this pleasant bar, located on a small side street behind the Nakameguro GT building. The first floor, with its counter seating (and standing room at the front), has a cozy, chilled out feel. Table seating can be found on the second floor. (Open 4-11:30pm Sundays and holidays.)   Kami-Meguro 2-7-10. Open 6pm-2:30am (LO) daily. | |
Prata (Naka-Meguro - Cafe). 3711-0051 An evening cafe with an eclectic food menu, mismatched furniture and a relaxed atmosphere. The extensive food menu (available in English) is inspired by a wide range of influences, from Vietnamese pho noodles, Thai soups and dim sum to vegetable platters and Mediterranean-style tapas. Freshly baked apple pie is one of the dessert highlights, and drinks include espresso, Chinese teas, herb teas and cocktails.   Kami-Meguro 2-43-10. Open 6pm-2am. Closed Mondays. | |
Cerons (Naka-Meguro - Bar). 3714-3937 Inside this quiet little bar hidden under the train tracks, the sepia-toned atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable. Oil pastel portraits of Spike Lee and Peter Tosh in carved wooden frames decorate the walls, while soul and R&B plays in the background. The friendly, unpretentious staff will gladly recommend a wine for you.  Kami-Meguro 2-43-13. Open 8pm-2am. Closed Sundays. | |
The Jiyugaoka branch of a popular Kichijoji chicken specialty shop.   Jiyugaoka 2-10-8, Jiyugaoka NK Bldg 3F. Open 5pm-midnight daily.
This basement bar and live-music spot offers a menu of Cajun-style dishes, including gumbos and jambalaya.   Okusawa 5-29-10, Jiyugaoka Libre B1F. Open 7pm-1am (LO). Closed Mondays.
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