The Bank

A recommendation from a friend. I was there early afternoon and was greeted with the smell of cigar smoke - a surprise as smoking indoor is increasingly rare in Japan. Just one other client, the smoker, sitting with his back to me wearing a fedora at the bar. I never saw his face... Service was impeccable but I was give very clear instruction that there was no "Nihonshu" (Japanese drinks) available when I mistakenly asked for Shouchu. I ordered a gin and tonic and Japanese olives, both delicious. Later another client came in, who knew the staff and was a little surprised to see me but the atmosphere was very welcoming. Not cheap (there's a cover fee of ¥500) but classy. American style bar in an antique and unusual space.

Fantastic ambience, classy staff and decent cocktails!

Makes no sense to come here if you are not a heavy smoker though - your clothes will be completely scented with second hand smoke lol.

Great ambiance, dim lighting with classy interior, nice dark wood bar. Supposedly it used to be an actual bank? The staff are friendly, very cozy feel. Maybe about 15-20 people fit inside, noticed a good handful of people who must be regulars. Nice place to bring a date or partner after a day of sightseeing, etc.