Locating cocktail bars with food
Not all cocktail bars in Tokyo serve full meals; many focus on drinks and offer small bites (otsumami). If you want a bar that serves substantial food, search for cocktail bars that also list tapas, plates, or izakaya-style items.
Where to look:
- Neighborhood bars in Ebisu and Nakameguro often offer full small-plate menus.
- Hotel bars sometimes have light dining menus or partnerships with kitchen teams.
- Izakaya-cocktail hybrids blend robust food with crafted drinks—look in Asakusa or Ueno.
Practical tips:
- Check menus online or on social pages for food listings.
- Ask when booking whether the bar offers dinner options or only snacks.
- If you plan to eat a full meal, consider dining first at a nearby restaurant and then moving to a cocktail bar for drinks.
Many bars happily serve small plates to accompany drinks; confirming ahead ensures you won’t be stuck with only snacks if you’re hungry.