Tokyo Cocktail Bar Guide for Tourists

Tokyo’s cocktail bar scene is a vibrant tapestry of world-class mixology, innovative flavors, and unforgettable experiences. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop lounges, the city offers an unparalleled array of bars where master bartenders craft exquisite cocktails with meticulous attention to detail.

In this ultimate guide to Tokyo’s best cocktail bars, you’ll discover top spots like The SG Club, Bar Benfiddich, and Bar TRENCH. We’ll explore Ginza’s sophisticated lounges, Shibuya’s trendy haunts, and secret bars tucked away in unexpected locations. Whether you’re seeking classic whisky cocktails or cutting-edge mixology with Japanese twists, Tokyo’s cocktail scene has something for every discerning drinker.

Top 10 Cocktail Bar in Tokyo

Tokyo’s cocktail scene is a treasure trove of exceptional bars, each offering unique experiences and masterfully crafted drinks. From hidden speakeasies to rooftop lounges, the city’s top cocktail bars showcase the pinnacle of mixology and Japanese hospitality.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 cocktail bars in Tokyo. So, whether you’re a local looking for new haunts or a visitor seeking the ultimate Tokyo nightlife experience, this list of top cocktail bars will guide you to some of the city’s most exceptional drinking destinations.

The SG Club

 The SG Club stands out as one of Tokyo’s best cocktail bars, offering an unparalleled drinking experience. 

What makes The SG Club truly special is its three distinct spaces, each with its own unique atmosphere and cocktail menu. You’ll find Guzzle on the ground floor, a casual space perfect for after-work drinks. Sip, located in the basement, offers a more intimate speakeasy vibe, while Savor on the second floor is an exclusive, members-only area.

At The SG Club, you can try innovative cocktails that showcase the bartenders’ creativity and skill. One standout drink is the “Commodore Perry,” a gin-based cocktail that pays homage to the historical figure who opened Japan to the West. With its place on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, The SG Club is a must-visit destination for any cocktail enthusiast in Tokyo.

Address	1-7-8 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo
Open	5pm – 3am
Website	https://sg-management.jp/
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/the_sg_club/

Bar Benfiddich

Bar Benfiddich is a true gem in Tokyo’s cocktail scene, offering a unique “farm-to-bar” concept that sets it apart from other establishments. Located in Shinjuku, this intimate bar is helmed by the renowned mixologist Hiroyasu Kayama, whose innovative approach to cocktail-making has earned the bar international acclaim.

What makes Bar Benfiddich truly special is Kayama’s use of homegrown and foraged ingredients. Many of the herbs, spices, and even some spirits used in the cocktails are cultivated on Kayama’s family farm.

At Bar Benfiddich, you won’t find a traditional menu. Instead, Kayama crafts bespoke cocktails based on your preferences and the seasonal ingredients available. You might enjoy a gin cocktail infused with home-distilled absinthe, or a whisky drink complemented by house-made bitters.

Address	9F, 1-13-7 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Open	Tue – Sat : 6pm – 1am Mon, Sun : Closed
instagram	https://www.instagram.com/benfiddich_tokyo/

Bar TRENCH

Bar TRENCH, nestled in the trendy Ebisu district, is a cocktail lover’s paradise that has earned its place among Tokyo’s best bars. 

What sets Bar TRENCH apart is its extensive collection of bitters and its creative use of unusual ingredients. The bartenders here are true artists, crafting cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. You’ll find classics with unique twists, as well as original creations that push the boundaries of traditional mixology.

One of the standout experiences at Bar TRENCH is trying their absinthe-based cocktails. The bar offers a variety of absinthe brands and serves them in the traditional style with a sugar cube and water drip. Whether you’re an absinthe aficionado or new to the “Green Fairy,” Bar TRENCH provides an educational and enjoyable experience that makes it a must-visit among Tokyo’s top cocktail bars.

Address	102, 1-5-8 Ebisu Nish, Shibuya, Tokyo
Open	6pm – 2am
Website	https://small-axe.net/bar-trench/
instagram	https://www.instagram.com/bar_trench/

Library Lounge THESE

Library Lounge THESE, located in the heart of Tokyo, offers a unique cocktail experience that combines the love for literature with the art of mixology. This sophisticated bar stands out among Tokyo’s best cocktail establishments for its bookish theme and expertly crafted drinks.

What makes Library Lounge THESE special is its ambiance. As the name suggests, the bar is designed to resemble a library, complete with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with an eclectic collection of books. This creates a cozy, intellectual atmosphere that’s perfect for savoring a well-made cocktail.

At THESE, you’ll find a menu of literary-inspired cocktails that pay homage to famous authors and their works. Also, The bartenders here are not only skilled mixologists but also well-versed in literature, making Library Lounge THESE a unique destination for book lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike in Tokyo’s vibrant bar scene.

Address	1F, 2-15-12 Nishi-Azabu, Minato, Tokyo
Open	Mon – Sat : 6pm – 3am Sun : 6pm – 2am
Website	http://www.these-jp.com/index2.html
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/libraryloungethese/

Tokyo Confidential

Tokyo Confidential is a hidden gem that has quickly risen to become one of the best cocktail bars in Tokyo. Located in the bustling Shibuya district, this speakeasy-style bar offers a secretive and exclusive atmosphere that cocktail aficionados will love.

What sets Tokyo Confidential apart is its commitment to creativity and quality. The bar prides itself on using premium spirits and fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful cocktails. The menu changes regularly, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try on each visit.

With its mysterious ambiance and top-notch drinks, Tokyo Confidential provides an unforgettable experience in Tokyo’s competitive cocktail scene.

Address	9F, 1-6-1 Azabu-Juban, Minato, Tokyo
Open	Mon – Sat : 6pm – 2am Sun : 6pm – 12pm
Website	https://www.tokyoconfidential.com/
instagram	https://www.instagram.com/tokyoconfidentialbar/

Ishi no Hana

Ishi no Hana, located in the vibrant Shibuya district, is a standout among Tokyo’s best cocktail bars. This elegant establishment is known for its innovative cocktails and its dedication to showcasing the best of Japanese spirits and ingredients.

What makes Ishi no Hana truly special is its “farm-to-glass” concept. The bar works closely with local farmers and producers to source fresh, seasonal ingredients for their cocktails. 

The bar’s knowledgeable staff is always happy to guide you through the menu, making Ishi no Hana a must-visit for both cocktail novices and connoisseurs exploring Tokyo’s bar scene.

Address	B1F, 3-6-2 Shibuya, Shibuya, Tokyo
Open	Mon – Sat : 5pm – 12pm Sun : 4pm – 1apm Wed : Closed
Website	https://ishinohana.com/en/
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/ishinohana_bar/

Folklore

Folklore, nestled in the trendy Kanda district, has quickly established itself as one of Tokyo’s best cocktail bars. This unique establishment stands out for its storytelling approach to mixology, where each drink is inspired by a different myth or legend from around the world.

What makes Folklore truly special is the immersive experience it offers. As you sip your cocktail, the bartenders share the story behind it, transporting you to different cultures and times. This narrative approach adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the already excellent drinks, making each visit to Folklore a journey of discovery.

With its unique concept and expertly crafted drinks, Folklore offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Tokyo’s vibrant cocktail scene.

Address	1-7-1 Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Open	2pm – 12pm
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/folklore_okuroji/

Sky Lounge Stellar Garden

Sky Lounge Stellar Garden, perched atop the Prince Park Tower Tokyo, is a standout among Tokyo’s best cocktail bars. This sophisticated rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline, including iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

What sets Sky Lounge Stellar Garden apart is its perfect blend of stunning vistas and expertly crafted cocktails. The bar’s extensive drink menu features both classic cocktails and innovative creations, often incorporating Japanese ingredients and flavors. 

As you sip your drink and take in the panoramic views, you’ll understand why this bar is considered one of the best spots for cocktails in Tokyo, especially for those seeking a romantic or impressive setting.

Address	33F, 4-8-1 Shiba Koen, Minato, Tokyo
Open	Mon, Tue, Sun : 5pm – 11pm Wed – Sat : 5pm – 1am
Website	https://www.princehotels.co.jp/parktower/restaurant/stellargarden/

Apollo Bar

Apollo Bar, tucked away in the trendy Ginza district, is a hidden gem that has earned its place among Tokyo’s best cocktail bars.

The bartenders here are known for their creativity, often using molecular gastronomy techniques to create drinks that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. You might find cocktails featuring edible bubbles, smoke-infused spirits, or even levitating garnishes.

At Apollo Bar, you can expect to find a mix of classic cocktails with a twist and completely original creations. With its unique concept and high-quality drinks, Apollo Bar offers an out-of-this-world experience that sets it apart in Tokyo’s competitive cocktail scene.

Address	B1F, 8-2-15 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Open	Mon – Fri : 5pm – 1am Sat : 5pm – 12pm Sun : Closed
Website	https://www.apollo-bar.net/
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/ginza_bar.apollo/

Bar Centifolia

Bar Centifolia, located in the bustling Shinjuku district, has quickly risen to become one of Tokyo’s best cocktail bars. This elegant establishment is known for its botanical-inspired cocktails and its commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

What sets Bar Centifolia apart is its focus on floral and herbal flavors. The bar takes its name from the centifolia rose, and this floral influence is evident throughout their innovative cocktail menu. You’ll find drinks infused with rose petals, lavender, jasmine, and other botanical elements, creating unique flavor profiles that you won’t find elsewhere in Tokyo.

With its unique concept and high-quality drinks, Bar Centifolia offers a truly special experience in Tokyo’s vibrant cocktail scene.

Address	6F, 1-6-5 Azabu-Juban, Minato, Tokyo
Open	6pm – 3am
Instagram	https://www.instagram.com/bar_centifolia/

Conclusion

Tokyo’s cocktail bar scene is truly world-class, offering an incredible array of experiences for cocktail enthusiasts. From hidden speakeasies like Tokyo Confidential to rooftop lounges like Sky Lounge Stellar Garden, the city’s top bars showcase the pinnacle of mixology and Japanese hospitality.

Whether you’re seeking classic whisky cocktails at Bar Benfiddich, innovative gin creations at The SG Club, or botanical-inspired drinks at Bar Centifolia, Tokyo’s best bars have something for every palate. The city’s cocktail culture seamlessly blends traditional techniques with cutting-edge innovation, resulting in unforgettable drinking experiences.

As you explore Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife, don’t miss the chance to visit these top 10 cocktail bars. Each offers a unique atmosphere and specializes in different aspects of mixology, ensuring that your Tokyo bar-hopping adventure will be as diverse as it is delicious. Kanpai to Tokyo’s exceptional cocktail scene!