Handling busy bars and waitlists
Popular Tokyo bars often have limited seating. If a bar is full, staff may offer a waiting list or suggest a return time. Patience and flexibility are helpful.
What to do:
- Ask to be added to the waiting list and request an estimated wait time.
- Explore nearby bars or grab a quick bite while you wait.
- Return at the reserved time or keep your spot on the list by staying reachable.
Etiquette:
- Don’t loiter inside small bars without ordering—this can block space for others.
- If you can’t wait, accept the staff’s suggestion for another time and consider making a reservation next time.
Plan B tips:
- Have a backup bar or neighborhood mapped out in case your first choice is full.
- For very small, popular bars, visiting on a weekday or earlier in the evening reduces wait times.
Being respectful of space and staff guidance improves the experience for you and others.