**Editor's note: HAVESPI has been revamped to include sake coolers and does not have nearly as many shochu and awamori brands as it did when this review was first posted nearly four years ago. HAVESPI is perfect for anyone looking to start or extend their shochu and awamori journey. First and foremost, let's start with a detail that is truly rare. This shochu bar is … [Read more...]
Showa (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Yakitori and shochu near Higashi-Shinjuku Station. Small and time-weathered interior, but it actually only opened in June of 2014. Very accommodating to non-Japanese customers. Smoking allowed. Counter seats. Two tatami tables (four tops). Reasonable shochu selection with a focus on imo. Sato-san has some bottles that are not normally easy to find, and you can ask … [Read more...]
Gengetsu (Roppongi, Tokyo)
A classy shochu joint not far from Midtown that specializes in all things Miyazaki Prefecture. The shochu selection is very good, and the food options are delightful. There are lots of salads and chicken dishes to choose from, and if you plan to tie one on, then the two hour nomihoudai options are probably worth it. You can select from a number of food course options to go … [Read more...]
Koan TOKYO (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Koan TOKYO is right in the middle of Shinjuku's lively 3-chome neighborhood, but it's more relaxed than most of the bars that are on street level. The bar boasts a modest selection of shochu with a focus on imo (potato). They also usually have a maewari available (Sekitoba the last few times we visited), and it's definitely worth your time if you have at least two people in … [Read more...]
Tokuri (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
Hiding on the western side of JR Shinjuku Station is a great shochu izakaya with a diverse bottle selection (150+!) and decent food. Bonus! There is an English menu for folks who are not comfortable with the Japanese language. Tokuri's cozy interior and knowledgeable staff make for a great shochu and awamori drinking spot on any day of the week. Tokuri always has at least … [Read more...]