There's nothing more satisfying than hitting a micro brew pub and spending a week's salary. Well, maybe not a week's, but enough to anger the Mrs. if she found out!
Micro brews, especially at a pub, will set you back between $9 - $14 for a pint in Tokyo! There are always half pints too if you're on a budget though.
Walking around Shimokitazawa, West of Shibuya, I stopped by the Tap & Growler.
The Tap & Growler is micro brew pub where you can stop in for a pint or fill up a growler to take home. You can't miss the large "BEER" sign that marks their location.
I've been here before, but as soon I walked in something was different. The vibe, the staff, etc. Most of the patrons & staff were Japanese. Last time I was here about 2 years ago the staff and patrons were mostly foreigners. I guess COVID changed things.
Anyway, I walked in and met the owner and asked for his recommendation. He asked me what my preferences were, then recommended the Nagano Brewing "Oval" which was an American Belgian White.
Very cool coaster. Now I know why the beer is so expensive!
It was fairly typical of a Belgian White, easy to drink, good flavor and almost affordable.
The owner, whose name I forgot, in the ball cap.
As I enjoyed the beer I looked around and zoomed in on the cooler.
These became really popular during COVID because cans could easily be taken out and ingredients were hard for many breweries to get during the slowdown. The prices for cans were just as costly as pints though! Zoom in and you can see the prices.
I guess micro beers are one way Tokyo can live up to being an expensive, international city.
Snacks, merch & your own growler are also for sale. I picked up a t-shirt for $35. Just put it on the tab!
After I finished up my first drink I moved up to the counter.
For my second round I went for Touch Down "Chocolate Schwarz". A good chocolate brew always hits the spot.
I chatted with the bartenders and tried to sell them some crystals on our shop. The lady added us to Instagram as she likes crystals. I'm not sure she bought any though...
After the chocolate brew, which was goo, I had to try the Yuzu beer. Yuzu is a citrus fruit in Eastern Asia. If you have ever had ponzu that contains yuzu and gives it the unique flavor. Yuzu is also excellent with beer. So order I did!
The yuzu was by Oloy called "Lachs" yuzu lager. It didn't disappoint. Very citrus flavored with a very slight sweetness to it. I also got the last pint they had, so it must have been popular with others too.
I spent a few more minutes chatting with everyone before I had to rush out to get one of the last trains home.
It was a pleasant experience, but a bit heavy on the wallet. I ended up spending about $80, but that included this cool shirt.
Just don't tell my wife!
Here is their website if you are interested in finding out more. https://www.craftbeers.tokyo/
Thanks for reading!
