Hyperlocal Tokyo

This is the best standing bar. It's open from morning, the snacks are super cheap and super fast, and it's a pre-payment system, making it a paradise for old men's quick drinks and solo drinking. There's a unique atmosphere where you won't be bothered. The staff are used to the system, so it can be confusing and leave a bad impression if you're not used to it, but once you get used to it, it's no problem. Ordering and paying are smooth. On the other hand, it's really annoying when groups of people are making a lot of noise. But, well, it can't be helped. However, Takioka has recently raised all its prices. And it seems like the volume and quality of the snacks have gone down, which is disappointing. I'll have to think about it a bit in the future.

I've been a customer for over 20 years. Today, Sunday, I went for a morning run from my home in Meguro to Ameya-Yokocho, and then came here. It's great that you're open from 7:00 am. It's called breakfast, but I'm actually having a good drink.

One of the most iconic standing bars in Ueno, this place is quite large but was packed on this day. *Please remember to have some coins on hand as payment is cash only.* I was guided to a counter along the wall in the back of the store and we toasted with a **bottle of beer (¥490)** and **ウーロン茶 (price forgotten)**. A large bottle for ¥490 is a steal in this day and age. **Stew (¥200)** - The light seasoning is great. I added a generous amount of the seven-spice powder from the table. **Young Ginger (¥250)** **Bamboo Shoot Stew (¥250)** - I always end up ordering these when I see them on the menu. Bamboo shoots are just so delicious. The atmosphere of the store is very Showa-era, and the smoking rate is quite high. It was a pretty harsh environment for us non-smokers. I wish they would at least have a smoking section. Anyway, thanks for the meal!

This is a standing-only bar located near Ameya-Yokocho in Ueno. It was packed in the underpass area, so I was walking around trying to decide where to go when I found this place. It has that classic standing-only bar vibe, and the atmosphere is fantastic. There's just a counter and some tables behind it, and the layout is simple and straightforward. There are plenty of friendly staff members who are easy to talk to. You order directly from the staff and pay cash on delivery for each order. A draft beer is ¥450. I recommend the simmered dish for ¥200 (which is basically a simple, light miso-flavored stew with innards), the beef stew for ¥400, and the vegetable tempura for ¥250, which I ordered because everyone else was having it and it was delicious. Smoking cigarettes is allowed, so the guy next to me at the counter lit up. Well, it's a standing-only bar, so it's to be expected. These prices are accurate as of July 2024.

When it comes to standing bars in Ueno, this place is a must-visit. It's incredibly affordable and perfect for enjoying a 'senbero' (¥1,000 drinking session). The stewed offal is especially recommended. The area is also home to fantastic establishments like Kadokura and Oyama, making it a great spot for bar hopping.