The Best Bars in Chuo, Tokyo

A classy, comfortable and quiet cocktail bar run by Takao Mori, a legend among bartending greats. Find it hidden away on the tenth floor, sharing a block with another Ginza legend, Tender Bar. Dress smart.

The owner of Tender Bar, Kazuo Ueda, is well known in the world of bartending, having won awards for his drinks in the World Bartender Champs. It’s an upscale cocktail bar and the dress code is taken seriously, so wear your best dress shirt – no sneakers or sandals here.

Check out Ginza Music Bar for a great sound system and music to match. This bar is decked out in sleek, modern décor and a relaxing vibe, with soul and blues playing softly in the background – occasionally via live DJ. And with an extensive list of classic and original cocktails, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

Oribe treats patrons to a view of the Kabuki-za opposite from seven floors up. The cocktails are excellent, but service can be a bit prickly at times. Cover charge is 1,000 yen (US$9).

Kisling is an upscale cocktail and wine bar in the heart of Ginza that exudes an old world elegance. The bar was co-founded by the aforementioned Takao Mori and is now run by the former chief bartender at the luxury New Otani Hotel. Dress smart.

Mixology Laboratory is a quiet, cozy bar with high marks for creativity. An array of scientific lab equipment is used in the making of drinks, and it makes for an interesting show. The mixology idea took off quickly, and there are now multiple bars operating under the concept.

As the name suggests, everything at 300 Bar costs 300 yen (US$2.70). Stand in line to get your drink tickets, then use those to order whatever you like. On weekends, the bar brings in a live DJ. Small and casual, 300 Bar is still an exciting place to spend a Friday night that won’t break the bank.