7 cozy bars in Tokyo to bookmark for a casual night out

Tokyo is filled with bistros, neighborhood bars and casual spots serving everything from natural wine to craft beer. If you want to have a drink without heading into a fancy bar or loud nightclub, these are great places to spend the evening.

Here are my secret (and maybe not so secret) haunts. They’re warm, relaxing corners of the city with soft lighting, delicious wine and an ambience that makes you feel like you’re right where you’re supposed to be. Think natural wine corners, fun counters, and neighborhood favorites that make Tokyo feel small in the sweetest way.

Provided by LUG Hataya

Luger (Hataya)

Just a few steps away from Hatagaya Station, lugs Its warm warehouse interior functions as a café, restaurant and bar. During the day, the restaurant serves breakfast and brunch, including pancakes, hearty sandwiches, curry and soup plates, and coffee. In the evening, sample a rotating selection of natural wines and craft beers, paired with seasonal, organic dishes that change daily.

While you’re in the area, take advantage of the services run by local bike shop operator Blue Lug. This is a friendly neighborhood favorite with an easy-going, unassuming vibe. Plus, it’s dog and stroller friendly.

A bar selling natural wines and music.

For those who want more intimacy and atmosphere, all Worth considering. It’s a stylish stand-up bar in Hatagaya that combines a range of bottles focusing on French natural wines with an impeccable vinyl selection. Comfortable, compact and perfect for quickly pairing small appetizers and salad plates, the Tout is the perfect place to meet new people and discover your next fascinating album.

Tip: Cashless only. Also, if you want to get a feel for the music before heading out, check out the music scene at the bar Spotify playlist.

provided by daughter

Daughter (Shimokitazawa)

Daughter is a dog-friendly natural wine bar just a 15-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station that feels like the kind of place you visit once and want to be alone. The wine list skews towards the natural, with a surprisingly good selection of Japanese wines as well as European favorites. There’s a lovely sound system and record player inside, as well as beautiful art prints, art books and vinyl records, adding to the warm, creative atmosphere.

The Daughter is a relaxed and approachable bar that is frequented by regulars in the neighborhood.

Provided by Komorebi

Shimokitazawa (Shimokitazawa)

Komorebi It is a small underground bar near Shimokitazawa Station. Most people were standing, but there were a few chairs in the back. The cozy, dimly lit atmosphere is very easy to settle into. The wine list is dominated by French and Japanese wines, and the staff usually provides a verbal mini-menu of what’s open that day. This can be very helpful if you are on the fence.

Komorebi is a casual, intimate venue perfect for a spontaneous drink on a night out.

provided by nephew

Nephew (Yoyogi Park)

Known for its cute window seats that basically scream “send it to me”, nephew is a popular place among Instagram users. The space has two floors and features a playful blue and white color palette, giving it a bright, soft, and slightly nostalgic feel. During the day, this is a café serving fresh pastries and excellent coffee. In the evening it transforms into a cozy bistro and bar.

You can sit at the counter for a more social atmosphere, opt for the famous window seat for the best aesthetic angle, or if you want something more understated, head upstairs to the quieter sofa seating.

Provided by Sewing Company

Sew (Yoyogi Uehara)

nephew’s sister branch, seam Also an all-day dining venue. The restaurant is bright, open, and spacious with outdoor seating, which is especially nice on a warm day. The space was once a doctor’s office and has since been renovated into a clean white and wood minimalist interior. Natural light pours in through the large windows, making it perfect for seasonal breakfasts, lunches and homemade desserts during the day. At night, the lights dim and the mood becomes more relaxed and comfortable.

The evening menu leans towards casual Italian with carefully sourced ingredients. The wine list is mainly Japanese wines (with a few international wines for balance). Next door is lifestyle brand Mytone, which adds an interesting design touch to the visit.

Provided by Lunet

Lunette (Shinjuku)

Amid the ongoing chaos in Shinjuku, telescope It almost feels like walking into another city. Soft lighting, warm wooden interiors and a natural wine list make it the perfect place to relax after a long day. It’s generally run by a guy who’s always friendly and thoughtful with suggestions, especially when it comes to pairing wine with Lunette’s European dishes and desserts.

Please note that a minimum of two drinks per person must be purchased. If you cannot order two, you will need to pay a seat fee of 1,000 yen.

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