Shizuoka Prefecture Bars & Pubs Recommended List (updated!)

Hug Coffee Cafe & Bar in Shizuoka City!

Service: easy-going and smiling
Equipment & facilities: All a bit narrow but very clean. Excellent washroom shared on 2nd floor of same Sunrrose building. Non–smoking
Prices: reasonable~ a little expensive
Strong points: 34 coffees and teas, craft beers, light food and bagels

Hug Coffee Company in Shizuoka City has three cafes/shops/bars in town, all different in style and concept.
They are increasingly becoming popular with all genders and ages for their convenience.
My favorite is the one called Hug Coffee Espresso Rosters (also called “sangouten”, meaning “3rd shop”!) between Cenova Department Store 109 Building for many reasons.

It reminds me of my psychedelic years and the staff is cool and sometimes outright zany.
Actually the Lady In Charge, Miyako Suzuki/鈴木京さん is a god friend of mine.
First of all smokers are kindly asked to pry their trade far away for the shop!

All drinks are made on site to satisfy all cravings!

But the main attraction is their beers including no less than 9 brews by Baird Beer, the most famous craft beer Company in Shizuoka prefecture!

They even serve a very limited (hurry, as it is only seasonal, although they plan to serve it every year!) Moening Coffee Stout made in collaboration with Bryan Baird and their own coffee!
Tasting report coming soon!

Bryan Baird’s recent visit to Hugs Coffee Espresso Roasters!

You will surely understand why you can expect many craft beer tasting reports in the near future!

HUG COFFEE ESPRESSO ROASTER

420-0857 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Tenma Cho, 8-1-1, Sunrose Bldg., 1F, No. 1-2-8
Tel.: 080-1609-5869 (Miyako Suzuki Manager)
Opening hours: 12:00~24:00
Closed on Tuesdays
Non-smoking!
HOMEPAGE
FACEBOOK
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“Beer Junkie MOTEL” Bar in Shizuoka City!

Service: very friendly and smiling! Some English spoken!
Equipment & facilities: Very clean overall. Superbb washroom
Prices: Reasonable~slightly expensive
Strong points: Own craft beers and foreign brews on the tap. Traditional beer hall/pub food

I finally managed to visit Shizuoka City’s newest bar,namely Beer Junkie Motel the other day!
It is Beck Co. Ltd’s fourth establishment with Growstock, AOI BEER STAND, Beer Garage on top of Ai Brewing!

It is located in a side alley fo Shichiken Cho between Aouba Park Street and Shichiken Cho Street, an area which is witnessing a booming rebirth this year.

It consists on the first floor of two bars, one along the open kitchen, the other facing the bay window.
There is a special space on the 2nd florr exclusiely for two small groups (maximum 4 each).
The counter is equipped with a state-of-the-art beer tap system serving 4 or 5 beers brewed by Aoi Brewing and two foreign craft beers changing regularly.

Manager Koji Yamamaoto/山本剛史さん and his charming staff, Miss Ayasa Mitsui/三井彩裟さん!

The beers of the day!

It will often include Aoi Brewing’s latest brew sold only there!

Aoi Brewing’s latest craft beer: “Grass Wheat Ale”, a Belgian-style Wheat Ale concocted with lemon grass! Report coming soon!

Apart of great beer, wine and soft drinks including home-made ginger ale and lemonade are also available.
Traditional and home-made food is served aplenty but bear in mind that the menu will be changed regularly!

Home-made meat pie!

Made on site, it is already proving very popular!

Grilled lamb chops!

Special plate! Not in the menu!

expect more reports soon as some of Aoi Brewing’s craft beers will only be served there!

Beer Junkie MOTEL

420-0035 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken Cho, 11-5, IMAKKOKO Bldg. 1F
Tel.: 054-253-6558
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00, 17:00~26:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesday
Parties welcome
FACEBOOK
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No Smoking Cocktail Bar: Gravity in Shizuoka City!

Service: Shy but very friendly and caring
Equipment & Facilities: Overall spotless clean. Small but superb washroom. Entirely non-smoking
Prices: Reasonable
Strong points: Seasonal fruit cocktails and classic cocktails. Excellent range of spirits. Light food available.

Naoko Hirano/平野直子さん opened her bar about 4 years ago after having learned her trade in two similar establishments in Tokyo for no less than 14 years!
This is only the third no-smoking bar I know of in Shizuoka City!

Interesting name!

Not only it is unequivocally non smoking, but you will not be extra charged! Only prices announced will be accounted for!

Great range of spirits!

This was only my second visit but that sole sign will encourage me to come more often!

The menu in Japanese but drinkers speak a universal language, don’t they?

My first drink was a tonic made with local “ama natsu” ornages and rum!

Extremely refreshing!

last nigh I needed a second drink before going back into the cold!

Wine grog!

With cinnamon stick, fresh orange slices and raisins!
I needed a spoon to finish it!

Naoko agreed to share her cocktail recipes so keep tuned!

GRAVITY

420-0033 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Showa Cho, 4-2, 1F (along Egawa Street, left hand side a short distance before Showa Street crossroads)
Tel.: 054-221-7820
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00
Closed on Sundays
Cash only
Entirely non-smoking!
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Fruit Cocktails by Masayoshi Tainaka at Bar Le Refuge

Service: Pro and very friendly, if a bit shy
Facilities: Great overall cleanliness. Beautiful washroom.
Prices: Reasonable
Strong points: Great Fruit Cocktails. Very quiet and relaxing bar. Difficult to find liqueurs.

Shizuoka Prefecture is actually the third producer of kiwi fruits in Japan way ahead of the rest!
It is full season for all kind of varieties during the winter and here is another basic recipe for any kind of this exquisite fruit!

INGREDIENTS:

Kiwi fruit: 1
Sugar (if possible “wasanbon satou/和三盆砂糖”): 2 small teaspoons
Bacardi white rum: 30 ml
Crushed ice
Mint leaves

RECIPE:

Put the cut kiwi, sugar, Bacardi white rum in a blender and blend roughly.
Taste and rectify with a dash of rum if necessary.
Add crushed ice and blend again until smooth.
Pour into an elegant cup glass.
Decorate with a half slice of kiwi fruit and a sprig of fresh mint.
Provide straws.

Very sophisticated and satisfying freshness.
A lady’s favorite, but as a man I was extremely pleased!
A very healthy cocktail actually!

BAR Le Refuge
420-0858 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Tenma-cho, 9-15, Ribelute-Hirano 1F-B (within walking distance from Cenova)
Tel.: 054-221-0339
Opening hours: 18:00~02:00
Closed on Sundays
HOMEPAGE/BLOG (Japanese)
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Irish Pub: Beer House Tirnan-Og In Hamamatsu City by Guest Blogger Matthew Davis!

Tirnan-Og is the Hamamatsu outlet for the now famous Baird Beer. A 10-minute walk from JR Hamamatsu Station, between the Daiichi-Dori Station (Enshu Railway Line) and the lively Sakana-machi area of downtown Hamamatsu.

Tirnan-Og currently carries all 12 of the Year-Round Beers and seasonal selections.
I have been lucky enough to live in Hamamatsu for 1.5 years and I have tried all 12 of the Year-Round Beers and now focus my visits around the seasonal beers.

The shop seems to attract a variety of clientele; ex-pats, business travelers, and dedicated locals. What I enjoy most is that there never seems to be an overly boisterous group. Although laughter and mixed conversation are always present, the atmosphere reflects the fact that people are there to enjoy the finely crafted beer, and the behavior reflects likewise.
The shop is also completely non-smoking (small smoking patio is available), there is no table charge, and payments are cash only.

The shop will hold approximately 10 people at the bar, 10-12 at small crowded tables and 3-4 more in a small corner. As you would expect weekends can be crowded so it’s always best to call ahead and check on the seating and make your reservation as necessary.
The room is lined in a light colored wood paneling and gives a very warm crafted and quite feel. The front of the shop looks out and up to the lively street above.
The tables and bar are always clean as well as the small kitchen that is visible from the bar. Single restroom for both men and women is well maintained.

Food

Although the menu has quite a few snacks I would not consider this a “dinner” spot.
I would typically eat Tandoori Chicken although on my last few visits they have been sold out.
Again with plenty to choose from so you will certainly not be disappointed if you need a quick snack.

Karaage – Hot Crispy and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
Sandwich – Two Small Sandwiches. A straight-forward Ham and Cheese, and next is a cream cheese, nut and dried fruit spread. I must say I am in love with the cream
cheese spread.
Pizza – Maghretti style pizza with a tortilla crust.

Again the food is simple, light, and prepared to order.

Beers

You will find all 12 of the Year-Round Beers available as well as the seasonal selection. There is simply no way to rank these selections, or make strong recommendations. My advice would be to start with your preferred beer style, then try something you typically don’t drink. I tend to drink more IPA and wheat beers, and shy away from porters and dark stouts. Although when I tried the Kurofune Porter and Shimaguni Stout I have to say I was pleasantly surprised how light it was, although it maintained all the flavor and richness you expect from these styles.

As for this visit I again focused on the two seasonal and ended the night with a familiar favorite.

Mikan Ale (seasonal)

Served: Draft
Unfiltered
ABV: 7% Alcohol
Clarity: smoky, with a dull yellow and orange color
Aroma: Over Ripe Musky Mikan and Citrus (Bittersweet Peel)
Taste: More hoppy than expected (I have not seen a published IBU value for Baird Beers). Mikan hints, but the bitter sweet of the peel was most noticeable. Not a sweet fruity beer at all.
Overall: Excellent Seasonal, but would not be a daily drinker.

Spiced Amber Ale (seasonal)

Unfiltered
ABV: 7% Alcohol
Clarity: smoky, with a brown and amber color
Aroma: Winter spices (Cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove)
Taste: Spot on Amber Ale with a nice helping of the Winter Spices. Less hoppy than the Mikan Ale.
Overall: Excellent Seasonal, and I was tempted to order another.

Wabi-Sabi Pale Ale (regular offering)

Filtered?
ABV: 6% Alcohol
Clarity: Golden and non-intimidating
Aroma: Lightly hopped.
Taste: I have tried to better understand the Japanese meaning of wabi-sabi and I think this beer sums it up. It is likely the most balanced beer in the Baird Beer line-up.
Overall: Daily Drinker. Can’t go wrong.

Article and all pictures are copyright belonging to Matthew Davis.

BEER HOUSE TIRNAN-OG

Hamamatsu City, Naka Ku, Ta machi, 329-8, Maruman Bldg, B1F
Tel: 053-450-6006
Opening hours: 18:00~ (15:00~ on weekends and National Holidays)
Closed on Tuesdays
〒430-0944静岡県浜松市中区田町329-8マルマンビル　B1F
HOMEPAGE
(Very Good Pictures and Description)
FACEBOOK
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BEER GARAGE

Service: Very friendly and easy-going
Equipment & Facilities: Very clean overall. Sapcouos and excellent washroom
Prices: Reasonable~slightly expensive
Strong points: Aoi Brewing craft beers on 6 taps. Pub food

At long last the first true Brew Pub in Shizuoka City has opened: BEER GARAGE!
I had the occasion to take part in their opening party and report!

It is located in the same building as Aoi Brewing Company, the latest craft beer brewery in Shizuoka Prefecture.
It stands away from the busy center in a quiet spot parallel to Sengen Street leading to Sengen Shrine.

They presently serve on tap 6 different beers, all from the brewery at the back.

Although the craft beers are bound to change regularly, they presently serve English Pale Ale, Litbitter Stout, Alt, Pale Ale, Golden Ale and IPA.
Beers come at 750 yen the glass, 950 yen the pint and 1,700 yen the jug
Soft drinks are available at 400 yen apiece.

Party food!

As for the food, the menu includes marinated vegetables, fried potatoes, German potatoes, cheese plate, raw ham, Roast lamb, Buffalo chicken, Nankotsu age, Smoked beef tongue, garlic shrimps, Fish & chips, Chorizo rolls (from Beer Yokota), Farmer’s market salad, cob salad, Grilled lamb chops, Lamb susages, Lamb steak, Cajun chicken, Stripped loin steak, Club sandwich, Suruga Gyu beef burger SPDX, Sakura shrimps fish burger, Teriyaki chicken mayo pizza, Jambalaya rice, Classic brownies and Old fashion cheese cake!

Expect regular reports!

BEER GARAGE

Aoi Brewing Co.,Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyagasaki Chyo, 30
Tel.: 054-294-8911
Opening hours: 17:00~23:00 (Monday~Friday), 15:00~23:00 (Saturday), 15:00~22:00 (Sunday)
Closed on Tuesdays
COD, Cash On Delivery only for all orders.
MAP

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Wines & Sake Bar: La Sommeliere

Service: Shy but very friendly
Equipment and facilities: Spotless clean. Superb washroom. Entirely non-smoking!
Prices: Reasonable
Strong points: Local sake by the glass. Extensive wine list by the glass. Bottles on sale. Great local bread and pastries. Home-made light food

LA SOMMELIERE

420-0857 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki Cho, 7-5, Aiseido Bldg, 1F
Tel. & Fax: 054-266-5085
Opening hours: 11:00~22:00
Closed on Sundays & National Holidays
Entirely non-smoking!
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Shizuoka Wine Bar & Shop: A Votre Sante!

Service: Very friendly and attentive
Equipment & Facilities: Overall very clean. Computerized washroom. Entirely non-smoking
Prices: Reasonable
Strong points: Superb wine list. Shizuoka sake and shochu, foodstuffs, clothing, etc. Space usable for parties, etc.

On June 1st, Atsuyoshi Uchibori/内堀敦よしさん and Hirotaka Sato/佐藤大高さんentered in a collaboration ad opened A VOTRE SANTE, the latest wine bar in Shizuoka City!
But you will soon understand it is far more than a wine bar!

if you get a good look at the blackboards erected outside you will understand they sell all kinds of products including cakes and biscuits cooked by local confectioners!

You can also obtain coffee, tea and superb sake from Takashima Brewery (Numazu City) and Sugii Brewery (Fujieda City)!

Right at the entrance you will find Japanese sake, shochu and rare liqueurs and Japanese wagashi cakes!

Very rare yamamomo and loquat liqueurs standing beside superb shochu!

The place used to be a soy sauce shop closed for the last two years!. Great interior!

Some of the local wagashi cakes!

More than 200 wines, mostly organic on sale!

More shochu, mirin, wine, soy sauces, olive oil, and so on!

Standing bar where you can drink wine by the glass anytime of the day!

Purchases can be beautifully wrapped on order!

More great sake in the fridge!

Great cheese and cold meats that can either be bought and taken out or consumed onsite!

Of course, there is a special wine cellar!

The hoard of wines!

Even clothing, utensils, objets and what else are on sale!

Last but not least, the whole place can be rented for seminars and parties!

A VOTRE SANTE/ア・ヴォートル・サンテ

Shizuoka city, Aoi ku, Cha Machi, 1-25-9
Tel.: 054-255-6007
Opening hours: 11:00~20:00 (until later depending on remaining customers)
Closed on Tuesdays, 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month
Credit cards OK
FACEBOOK
Entirely non-smoking!
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AOI BAR STAND in Shizuoka City

Baird Beer Rising Sun!

Service: Easy-going and smiling. Very hospitable and friendly
Facilities: Very clean overall. Washroom inside Den Bldg, extremely clean and modern
Prices: Reasonable to slightly expensive (but craft beer is never cheap!)
Strong points: All micro brewery craft beers!

After the recent complete overhaul of Den Building in Aoi Ku a few minutes walk form Shizuoka JR Station North exit, the large street and its pavements were also remade and now we find ourselves with a new space downtown which is slowly starting to attract a new crowd.

The latest addition is a minuscule standing bar called Aoi Beer Stand which opened on the 1st of July!
It is the last addition to Beck Co. Ltd which already owns Mando and Growstock bar/restaurants in Shizuoka City.
To start with the opening hours are a bit unusual: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm every day!

The name Aoi is fairly easy to explain as this bar is located in Aoi Ku, Shizuoka City!

But there is another reason. Mr. Mando, who I should interview soon, is planning to start a brewery of the same name in the very city of Shizuoka! I know where but as this is still confidential you will have to wait until next year for more information! Just know it will become the 11th craft beer brewery/microbrewery in the Prefecture! Whereas the average number of microbreweries in Japan is 5~6 per Prefecture, Shizuoka Prefecture is simply becoming a major area!

Ever-smiling Ryousuke Ono/大野良輔さん is looking after the place in day time whereas Mr. Mando take things in charge in the evenings.

Now, they serve only craft beer and absolutely nothing else!
For the mement they serve 6 craft beer from all over Japan (changing regularly), including 2 from Shizuoka prefecture.
When the new brewery starts they will probably serve only Shizuoka craft beer!
Note that the prices are for large glasses. Add 200 yen for a pint-sized glass.

Although the place can sit 6 people on high stool, the moment you have reached 7 guests the stools are pushed under the bar counter and you drink standing. on some crowded nights patrons can be seen drinking standing on the pavement!

The door inside on the left does not lead to a washroom (which is located inside Den Den Building) but a minuscule cellar for the beer kegs as all beers are served draught!

The two Shizuoka craft beers presently on offer are from Baird Beer Co. in Numazu City!

Baird Beer Red Rose Amber Ale!

There is some food available though, but the accent is definitely on the beer!

Will come back with another interview of the owner and of his projects soon!

AOI BEER STAND
420-0847 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Gokoumachi, 4-6, Den bill, 1F
tel.: 054-260-5203
Opening hours: 11:00~23:00
Credit cards OK
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The Ale House in Fujieda City (Summer 2013-revisited)

Service: Friendly and smiling, all in a very quiet atmosphere (when not full!)
Facilities: Overall very clean. Clean washroom
Prices: Reasonable to slightly expensive
Strong points: Shizuoka Micro breweries’ beers on tap, Belgian beers and pub grub.

There are very few pubs, I mean real pubs, British or Irish, worth noticing in our Prefecture.
But I surely don’t mind traveling all the way from Shizuoka City to Fujieda City and come back with the last train back home under the questioning looks from commuters going back to their sleeping town! Fortunately The Ale House is only less than 10 minutes away from the south exit of the JR Station!

It has become one of those “kakureya” (“hidden spots”) that a lot of residents expats talk about, and deservedly so.
Would you believe it I visited it for the first time again in 6 years with a motley of friends! They stille remembered me, though! LOL

At least it looks like a real pub!

But I let my English friend Patrick of Think Twiceguide me along and introduce me to the matser of the Place, Mr. Masayuki Saitou
Mr. Saitou explained us he opened his Pub in 1995 out a search for a new challenge away from the dreary life of a typical Japanese “salaryman”, and indulge in his hobby, namely whisky.
Talking of whisky, he does have an impression collection, but you will have to ask him to show it as it is protected from the spotlights inside wooden cabinets!
Now, if you are a beer lover, he has an extra treat for you, a proof of his dedication: baird Beer from Numazu City and Bayern Meister Bier from Fujinomiya City on tap!

The only problem is that it is really tough to take clear pictures in the very dark lounge bar!

Some of the beers available with their country of origin clearly marked. Don’t worry Mr. Saitoh will somehow explain everything if you don’t read Japanese!

Some of these are actually sometimes available!

The food menu ( a lot of typical pub grub) is in Japanese but the master will gladly help you read it!

the same for the drinks!

Interestingly enough, people here do not know we do have quite a few notable “jibiru”, microbreweries, in Shizuoka Prefecture!
Now if you are into cocktails, no worries, the Ale House has more than you can drink.

Beers come in all kinds of sizes, shapes, colors, on the tap and in bottles!

Long ones, too?

These beer coasters were everywhere! Now, who is this guy?

A very dark beer in a very dark place! LOL

there is plenty of grub (foods) to choose from:
Cheese assortment.

Fried potato wedges with their skins.

Pickles.

Sausages.

Spicy potatoes.

Keema pizza!

Skillet-fried chicken and vegetables.

Spicy mushroom noodles.

And even desserts such as this pear tart!

I won’t want 6 years till my next visit, I can assure you!

The Ale House
426-0061 Fujieda City, Tanuma, 1-4-12 (JR Station South Exit, take second on left)
Tel. & Fax: 054-6362889
Opening hours: 18:30~25:00
Closed on Mondays (Tuesdays are open, even in the case of a National Holiday)
Blog/Homepage (Japanese only)

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GROWSTOCK

Service: very lively and friendly.
Facilities: great cleanliness overall.
Prices: reasonable, good value.
Strong points: Beer from all over the world. Outside terrace. Local microbrewery beer available in some quantities.

Grow Stck is the second establishement of the company running Mando tapas Bar and Cherry Beans diner in Shizuoka City.
It was open in March 2009 and has since become one of the most popular bars ofits kind in town

Although the place can be really crowded at times, it is not that easy to find if it is your first visit in town. Located on the 5th floor of Koyama Naka Building in Koyamachi, one of the drinking areas in Shizuoka City, it is worth exploring the vicinity as they have the advantage of offering a real otdoors terrace:

I took the pic in day time and it does really does it justice. It is a great site to lounge around in the summer (not on rainy or cold days, mind you as it is not covered!) in happy company!

Check the board at the entrance for events and good deals.
Although it is written in Japanese, the Manager, Mr. Ryousuku Ono and his staff will be only too happy to oblige and answer your queries!
The clientele is a good mix of Japanese, young to old, local foreigners who know their beer and guests from both genders who want to enjoy themselves!

As its name clearly indicates, it is a place to savour beer.
And they have loads of it:
More than a 100 from all over the world in bottles.
7 draft beers.
Local microbrewery beers! Bryan Baird from Numazu City, and as guests (depends on your lucky day!) draft beer from Bayern Meister in Fujinomiya City, Hansharo Beer from Hirayama in Izu Peninsula and Kaze no Tani/Windy Valley by Oratche in Kannami (Misj\hima City)!

Baird Beer come in bottles!

But there is plenty of other drinks for everyone from Scotch/Bourbon, wine/Jizake (Kikuyoi from Fujieda City!) to cocktails and soft drinks!

Sit at the counter and try to recognize the beers!

That is unless you want to hang onto the draft beer handles!

Peruse through the beer book! They even have Pietra beer from French Corsica!

As for the food, no worries whatsoever!
You can either choose it a la carte such as the fish and chips above or as a course.
Apart of the fish and chips, they serve interesting Belgian mussles steamed in Beer, Beef Carbonade, German Pork and Buffalo Chicken Wings.
Check the pasta, pizza and paella of the day.
Vegetarians can order vegetarian salads!

The place can also be parially or completely reserved for parties as it can provide for up to 100 guests! And TV screens will show big events if you are short of reasons to patronize the establishment!

GROW STOCK
420-0852 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Koyamachi Naka Building, 5F
Tel.: 054-293-9331
Opening hours: 17:00~25:00 (Mon.~Thurs.), 17:00~27:00 (Fri & Sat.), 17:00~24:00 (Sun.)
Parties welcome (reserve!)
Credit Cards OK
HOMEPAGE (Japanese)
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COCKTAIL BAR: BOTANICAL (Comfort Bar)

Haaru Lemon Cocktail
(Courtesy of Yoko Kosugi)

Service: very professional and friendly.
Facilities: great washroom, great cleanliness overall.
Prices: reasonable, good value.
Strong points: Fruit cocktails. Cozy and a comfortable, for ladies and gentlemen alike.

After having established a solid reputation as one of the best bartenders in Shizuoka City for quite a few years in a cocktail bar called Yasougin, Wataru Matsumoto decided it was about time to open his own in July 20009 to the pleasure of his customers who just “moved” to his new place called BOTANICAL (Comfort Bar) without batting an eyelid (or eyelash for some).

Contrary to many similar bars, you do not need a guide to take you up dark stairs and through involuted passageways to find it. It stands right along the street behind Isatan Department Store next to a renown ladies fashion shop. One can see the inside through windows, very much in with the new concept to show as much interior as possible to passers-by and eventual customers. No wonder ladies feel comfortable sipping their favourite nectar in peace and quiet with similarly-minded guests.

Even so at night, it is all soft light and soothing background music.
Customers do enjoy casual conversations with unknown (until then) individuals or keep to themselves in a very laid back manner.

Passion Fruit Cocktail

A good dozen guests can sit at the bar or sit at one of the small tables by the window.
Wataru Matsumoto caters for many tastes with his own very precise selection: 30 Scotch Whiskies, 10 Bourbons, 20 Liqueurs and even unknown shochu from Shizuoka Prefecture.
French Mumm Champagne is available by the glass.
But his forte is definitely seasonal fruit cocktails. Just ask what fruit is available and how sour, sweet, flat or petillant you like it and expect a marvel to stand in front of you after a great demonttrations of his art!

“Kinkan” Fruit Cocktail (Kumquat、Cumquat)

I actually plan to run a special series on Mr. Matsumoto fruit cocktail creations as he is more than happy to share his recipes!

Incidentally prices are very reasonable for this type of establishment in Japan. Count 1,800 yen for the first cocktail (with obligatory snack) and 800 yen from the second one. Light food is also available as well as soft drinks, beer and coffee.

A superb place to visit on your own, with a grteat friend or your special guest”

BOTANICAL (Comfort Bar)
420-0082 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Ryogae-cho, 1-6-13, Shade Bldg, 1F
Tel.: 054-221-8686
Opening hours: 17:00~01:00
Closed on Mondays.
Credit Cards OK
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New Pub in Shizuoka! Beer No Yokota serving Baird Beer!

-Service: very friendly
-Facilities: very clean
-Non-smoking!
-Strong points: The beer!

I finally managed to find the time to visit Beer No Yokota Pub twice since its opening last Sunday!
It was not easy to do a proper interview as the place gets crowded very quickly as the word has spread in town like a bush fire!

As I said before, it is located in Gofuku-cho behind the City Hall, only 10 minutes walk away from Shizuoka JR Station, making it a very practical place to meet and enjoy true beer!

True beer, you said?

Yep, true beer as the owner, a very easy-going gentleman, Mr. Fumitake Yokota worked for Bryan Baird at the Numazu Fishmarket Taproom for 4 years before looking after the Nakameguro Taproom in Tokyo, is serving no less than 7 beers concocted by Bryan Baird on the tap and 5 more from other breweries. more are bound to come soon as there 15 taps!

Suruga Bay Imperial Stout

Alright you want to know about the beer menu already in place?
Here you are:
-PROMPTON ALE: Y700 (473ml), Y500 (300ml)/original!
-BAIRD BEER: Y800 (473ml), Y550 (300ml)
RISING SUN PALE ALE
RED ROSE AMBER ALE
NUMAZU LAGER
TEIKOKU IPA
ANGRY BOY BROWN ALE
MIDNIGHT OIL EXPORT STOUT (+Y50)
SURUGA BAY IMPERIAL STOUT (+Y50)
-YOKOHAMA BEER PILSNER: Y800 (420ml)
-ATSUGI HONEY ALE: Y900 (420ml)
-HATSUISHIKAN BEER WINTER SMOKE: Y900 (420ml)
-EDELWEISS (AUSTRIA): Y900 (420ml)
-WESTON CIDER: Y600 (300ml)

The pub can seat around 40 guests at tables, a counter along the kitchen or counters running along the wall and window.
My favourite spot is definitely at the counter at the window!
Don’t worry, there is still more space for standing guests who pefer wandering between tables and customers!

Don’t steal these!

Note that Yokota san is using a very clever on the tap draught system taking only minimum space thanks to Japanese technology!

Sports buffs will be glad to discover a screen with Sky TV Sports!

Toilets are are both for ladies (seat) and gentlemen (standing). Very clean for such an establishment! Always good to know!

Apart of the beer, cocktails and whisky are available.
As for food, expect pub grub! Spicy fried potatoes, snacks, simple pasta…
Alright, here is the present food menu (bound to change!):
JAPANESE PICKLES: Y 400
COLESLAW: Y 500
STEAMED CHICKEN & VEGETABLES SALAD: Y 500
ROASTED MUSHROOMS: Y 500
SQUID FRITTERS: Y 600
SPICY FRIED CHICKEN WINGS: Y 600 (3 pieces)
JAPANESE-STYLE FRIED CHICKEN LEG MEAT: Y 850
STEWED MINCED CHICKEN & LIVER SAUCE PASTA: Y 900
ROSEMARY POTATOES: Y 500
SIMMERED JAPANESE SMELT/WAKASAGI: Y500
MIXED NUTS: Y 300
MATSUURA SWEET POTATO CHIPS: Y 300
CREAM CHEESE & HONEY DESSERT: Y 600
SALAMI: Y 600

Drinks may be paid COD (cash on delivery) at the counter.
If you take food as well, you will be asked to paid a bill instead of COD.

Beer No Yokota
Shizuoka Shi, Aoi Ku, Gofuku-Cho, 2-5-22, Social Kadode bldg 2F (behind the City Hall)
Tel.: 054-255-3683
Opening hours: 17:00~24:00 (15:00~24:00 on Saturdays)
Closed on Thursdays
HOMEPAGE

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SPEAK-EZ

By John Gooden

Speak EZ Bar was established in 2000 by a young Canadian man named Brent. It is located in the centre of Numazu city. The bar is at the heart of the gaijin community in the city. It’s a popular watering hole where people come to enjoy draught kirin, imported bottled beers or cocktails. There’s also a food menu offering a range of delicious ‘pub grub’, such as pizza, hamburger, Mexican wraps, homemade chilli con carne and Aussie meat pies.

Brent along with his dedictated and friendly staff are bi-lingual and always take the time to get to know the customers. During the week the bar has a laid back mellow feeling with a few regulars dropping in for a chat, a bite to eat and a drink. There’s a darts board and free internet for those looking for activities. There’s also a free library filled with interesting books for those who are in need of English reading matter. At the weekends the bar transforms into a lively venue for various events including live music, salsa nights, and DJ nights. On ocassion sports fans gather to watch soccer and American football on the big widescreen TV at the bar.

The clientele is a refreshing mix of foreigners and local Japanese. The bar is not only popular with American, Canadian, Australian and British teachers but also attracts many South American and Middle Eastern patrons.

Speak EZ Bar is open from 6pm to late from Tuesday to Saturday. The website is updated every month and links sent to valued customers to keep everyone informed of upcoming events.

The Speak EZ address is:
410-0801 Shizuoka Prefecture, Numazu City, Nichome, 3-2, Yamaguchi Building, 2F
HOMEPAGE

Telephone number: 055 964 5131
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BAR NO’AGE

After a grand dinner at Aquavite, the best Italian restaurant in Shizuoka City, I just could not resist my good friend, Mr. Naohiro Momose’s invitation to his favourite Cocktail Bar, NO’AGE.
As the name indicates, all customers of all ages are welcome. I’m sure that a certain Roaf in Yokohama would make it his personal lair as it is not only a great place with grand drinks, but is also very reasonable!

For our first round Naohiro opted for Fennel Gin Fizz, our friend Mika chose a more feminine drink, Karien (Greek for chestnut Liqueur) including plenty of cream, while I went for a NO’AGE creation called Kinkan (small ornages) Vodka Gimlet.
To tell you the truth, these went down a bit too quickly!

Poor Mika being left behind, Naohiro ordered a very classical (very) Dry martini, while I chose to check the Chestnut Liqueur (French) they used for our poor lass’ brew.

While we nibbled on a welcome snack, we engaged into a serious conversation with Mr. and Mrs. Itani, the young owners who opened this cozy bar on the 21st of June 2007. Being a Monday, I noticed taht the place was quite busy for the beginning of the week, a sure sign of its popularity. Ladies and gents were equally represented, while I was the only old geezer on hand.

Poor little Mika was still struggling finishing her own glass while the “men” were asking the one for the road:
Naohiro obtained “up to date”, a Bourbon based concoction while I asked something based on Mirabelle. I was served a succulent “Allegro” containing Mirabelle, Apricot and lemon juice (shaken).

It was about time to leave then as work was in wait for all of us the next morning.
But the place was undoubtedly too welcoming and knowledgeable to forget easily!
Especially when you consider we hadn’t been able to even scratch the menu, which by the way includes plenty for teetals!
Problem is that I will have to wait at least a week before my next visit as I promised my (???) half I would cook all week!

BAR NO’AGE
Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Shichiken-cho, 3-6, ACT-7, 2F
Tel. & Fax: 054-2536615
Business Hours: 18:00~02.00
HOMEPAGE (Japanese)

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LIFETIME

On November 27th, 2007, Fugetsuro Hotel revamped their first floor completely to replace the simple cake-shop/cafe they previously had with a very much larger cafe bar in Koya Machi across Shizuoka JR Station.

As far as the cafe itself, it is very probably the only decent Hotel Cafe Bar in town.
It is large, but not overwhelming, seating about 80 people. One can either choose a seat at the counter, inside the room or in one of the street-facing lodges. Excellent background jazz music and friendly staff.

Do not be too harsh on the English written on the menu. The place does serve quite a few dishes apart of their cakes made on site that you can either savour inside or take home.
As for drinks, every taste is covered as they include very good coffees and a surprisingly long array of teas served in beautifull china.

For the late drinkers (and their companions), malt whiskies, beer, wine, sake and even a kome/rice shochu by Sugii Brewery in Fujieda City called Saisuke!

Now the big plus is the regular Jazz Concert Programme every Thursday, but forthat you had better consult their homepage! (the list id simply too longand impressive for this posting!)

LIFETIME
Shizuoka City, Aoi-Ku, Koya machi, 11-1
Tel.: 054-250-0131
Business Hours: Tuesdays: 13:00~25:00
Saturdays: 11:00~24:00
Sundays & National Holidays: 11:00~19:00
Mondays: Off (except on National Holidays)

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“No Name Standing Bar”

For all the aping of Tokyo trends, real standing bars are a scarcity in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Although the concept should fit within the heavy-drinking environment prevalent in our region, especially Shizuoka City, it does not seem to appeal.
True to say, people here are not in a hurry and prefer to stay long in their favourite dens instead of the frantic bar hopping in vogue in larger metropolises.
Now, would you believe that the only standing bar worthy of attention in Shizuoka City does not have a name or phone number despite the fact it has been in existence for more than four years?
It is located along the subterranean thoroughfare grandly called “Golden Chikakai” linking Gofukucho Street to the JR Station. Enter it near Parco Department Store and walk along the left-hand side passageway. You can’t miss as long as you keep your eyes open and take your time.

Now, if you are somewhat of a voyeur or exhibitionist, this might be the place to patronize at all hours of long evenings, as all kinds of passers-by hurry past it with long side glances at the denizens ogling at them behind the illusory safety of large glass window/doors.
Interestingly enough, gents and ladies of all ages both patronize this waterhole. You might therefore discover another personal reason for stopping by as it is comfortably air-conditioned for all seasons.
The Manager of the place, Mr. Sumiteru Yamato is always ready to serve you with a smile and a chat. All drinks are standard 500 yen (900 yen for full pints of draught beer). Snacks are available (200 to 500 yen). All COD. No cover charge. No surprise.
But plenty of scotch (including single malts), bourbon, cocktails, liqueurs, bottled and draft beer. Enough for the true fans.

Business hours: 17:00~24:00

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White Ize Cafe/Bar

Many of my friends, expats and Japanese alike had been telling me about this new sports bar opened in July 2006, so it was about time I visited it!
Interestingly enough, although Shizuoka City are blessed with a plethora of good Izakaya, simple, unpretentious and well-stocked bars are almost a rarity.

The least I could say is that they are extremely well-stocked as far as bottled beers are concerned: no less than 96 brands and still looking for more!
I even had the occasion to taste a beer from the French Island Corsica called Pietra I had never heard of! (A fine beer, by the way!). There are varieties for everyone, including a whopping 14 degrees ale from Austria!

White Ize has 3 screens for customers to watch all current sports. The coming Rugby World Cup will be shown live from France from September 9th. Ozzies and Kiwis had better reseve their seats!
Apart of beers, cocktails and other drinks are available. Food is Tex-Mex and reasonably priced.
The owner, Mr. Kazuyoshi Harazaki is an old hand at both fishing, boating and boozing and always keen to share a chat. He is known to go on boating excursions with his customers, so better keep your ears open!

White IZE
420-0857 Shizuoka City, Aoi Ku, Miyuki-cho, 7-2, Amano Bldg. 2F (near Den Den Building, a few minutes walk from Shizuoka JR Station)
Tel.: 054-2551336
Business Hours: 17:00~02:00
Closed on Mondays
Parties welcome
Homepage
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Hamamatsu Izakaya/ Shochu Bar: Nikomanma

Last Friday (April 13th!), my good friend Bernard Heberle, the patissier at Abondance in Hamamatsu City, took me to one of his favourite “izakaya” called “Nikomanma” or “にこまん馬” in Japanese.
Mr. Michiaki Genma opened his very traditional looking resraurant near Wachiyama Park. The interior is the logical succession to the exterior in design with antiques eveywhere, wooden partitions you can open or close at will, parquet sitting room, dinin room and counter.

Nikomanma specializes in shochu and has “Doman” kome (rice) shochu, a favourite of mine brewed by Tenjigura Brewery/Distillery in Hamamatsu City.

But it also serves a very fine Junmai sake, “Shusseijyo”, from the same brewery.

It is a very popular place and you definitely have to reserve on Fridays and Saturdays. Luckily we came very early, otherwise even Bernard’s persuasion would have been in vain.
The menu is of the better kind with some real finds such as the squid and its ink as tempura!

Try the Japanese omelette and deep-fried chicken, but start your meal with a sashimi assortment of the day!

The place definitely warrants a few more visits as I could not possibly exhaust the menu, even in the company of my bulky friend!