A friend and I first drank in this truly unique little bar about 10 years back, and each subsequent time we’ve dropped by for a few beers it’s been just as much fun as that initial, decade ago discovery. Something that a long overdue return the other day happily reconfirmed.
Its clutter, grime and welcoming nature make each visit both joyous and memorable, with even a rat making a brief appearance on one occasion. Needless to say the uninvited guest surprised us, but for everyone else present, its brief dash through raised barely an eyebrow.
In business for over 40 years, with the son now helping his mother run the place after the death of the master, there are dusty and discoloured mementoes attached to the walls and on pretty much every surface other than the counters. A bar where nothing really changes except the menu, and as the last 2 photos prove, even that doesn’t alter much. Not even the prices. And yet the images were taken 6 years apart.
So here then is a selection of my memories from those evenings spent there. Some are clear, whereas others are decidedly more hazy, but all of them I feel fortunate to have.
Sean says
These are so good! I love the atmosphere. I sure envy your time there. Great work as always!
Lee says
Thanks a lot. It’s a very special place for sure, and one I definitely appreciate.
Denise says
OMG, a rat?!!! 😮 I would have completely freaked out!
Lee says
Yeah, not the most common bar experience, but it happened so quickly there really wasn’t any time to react.
cdilla says
Ah, a window into one of the best evenings we have spent in Tokyo. We had an absolute blast in there with the incredibly friendly and lively regulars that made us feel so welcome. It had been a long day on our feet and pretty cold too (late December 2019) but that was quickly forgotten with the beer, food and friendly banter (mediated of course by your good self). That visit provided us with many unforgettable moments (including the periodic walk down the street and through the noisey pachinko parlour for the loo :-)) that helped ease our Tokyo withdrawal symptoms through the covid years.
Here is one of Mrs cdilla’s photos from that night take as we reluctantly left for the late train. It captures something of the atmosphere and also one of the guys in your final photograph who happily seems to have hardly changed at all in the intervening years.
https://rainbowsharpsleep.com/20191227_002.jpg
Lee says
Very happy to hear it left such an impression. Definitely a unique little place, and needless to say it was as friendly as ever. Similarly unsurprising was the pachinko parlour got visited quite a few times.
Ah, that’s a lovely photo. Sums up the warmth of the people there perfectly.
Richard says
Heartwarming to see so many happy people there. Must be a great place to unwind after a day in the big, busy city!
Lee says
Yeah, it’s a very special place. One of those you feel at home in the minute you open the door. Definitely an escape from the busy city too.