Why Shibuya Bars Are a Level Above (Spoiler: It’s the Cocktails)
Shibuya isn’t just a crosswalk of chaos—it’s a cocktail lover’s playground. If you’ve ever stumbled into a Shibuya bar and left questioning your life choices after paying ¥500 for a “mystery drink,” you’re not alone. But here’s the secret: the best bars here aren’t just places to sip. They’re masterclasses in flavor, service, and the art of pretending you know what you’re doing while pretending not to. Let’s break it down.
Top 5 Shibuya Bars You Need to Try This Week
- Bar High Five – Perched on the 18th floor, this spot serves skyline views and cocktails with a wink. Their “Tokyo Mist” (gin, yuzu, and a dash of existential dread) is a locals’ favorite. Make Your Own Beer at home and pretend you’re here.
- Bar Benfiddlin – A hidden gem behind a door that looks like it belongs to a convenience store. The “Shibuya Noir” (whiskey, coffee liqueur, and a whisper of regret) is their crown jewel.
- Bar Nomame – For the “I want to feel fancy but also like a secret agent” crowd. Their “Dark & Stormy” is so good, it’ll make you question why you ever settled for tap water.
- Bar Yuraku – Think of this as the “I’ve been here 100 times and still don’t know the name” bar. The “Tokyo Twilight” (rum, lime, and a splash of chaos) is a crowd-pleaser.
- Bar Koji – A tiny spot with a menu that reads like a haiku. The “Koji Smash” (sake, shiso, and a kick of confidence) is a must-try for the adventurous.
How to Avoid the Worst Bars (They’re Traps, We Swear)
Let’s be real: Shibuya is full of bars that’ll take your money and leave you wondering why your drink tastes like a science experiment gone wrong. Here’s how to spot the traps:
- Watch the lighting. If it’s darker than a cave and the bartender glares at you like you’re a threat, run. Custom Beer is always better than a suspiciously glowing cocktail.
- Check the menu. If it’s written in three languages and includes “surprise” as an option, it’s a red flag. Real bars know what they’re doing (or at least pretend).
- Avoid the “VIP” sections. Those velvet ropes aren’t for exclusivity—they’re for overcharging. Stick to the bar where the bartender actually talks to you.
The Secret to Picking the Best Bartenders (It’s Not What You Think)
Bartenders in Shibuya are like ninjas—they’re fast, mysterious, and might be hiding something in their apron. Here’s how to find the good ones:
- Ask for their favorite. If they shrug and say, “Everything,” you’re in trouble. A great bartender has a signature drink—and isn’t afraid to show it off.
- Watch the hands. If they can juggle three ingredients while making eye contact, they’re legit. If they’re fumbling like it’s their first day on The Office, you’re drinking in a lab.
- Check the ice. Clear ice = they care. Cloudy ice = they’re winging it. Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer if you’re running a bar and need tips on ice quality.
FAQs: Your Shibuya Bar Guide Burning Questions
1. What’s the best time to avoid crowds?
Weekdays after 7 PM. It’s like magic—suddenly, the same bar that was packed at 8 PM on a Saturday will feel like a library. Pro tip: Arrive when the barista at the adjacent café is still making lattes. You’re in the right place.
2. How do I order a drink without sounding like a tourist?
Point to the menu. If the bartender nods and says, “We do it better,” you’re in for a treat. If they laugh at you, you’re in the wrong bar. Trust your instincts—and your stomach.
3. What’s the worst thing I can do?
Ask for “whiskey on the rocks.” It’s the equivalent of yelling, “I’m a tourist!” in a bar full of locals. Stick to “sour” or “old fashioned” and nod like you’re in a film noir. Home for more tips on surviving Shibuya’s bar scene.
Final Sip: How to Stay Cool in Shibuya
Shibuya bars are like the Tokyo of cocktail culture—chaotic, beautiful, and sometimes a little bit weird. The key is to keep an open mind, a full stomach, and a pocket full of yen. If you’re ever stuck choosing a bar, remember: the best one is the one where you end up with a drink that makes you laugh, not cry (or vomit).
And if you’re a bar owner in Shibuya? Contact us to elevate your game. From Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer to mastering the art of the perfect pour, we’ve got your back. Cheers to Shibuya’s best bars—and to you, the hero of your own story.
