Bakudan

At Bakudan, one diner reports that the shochu in a Hoppy set came in a glass, with refills served the same way. It sounds like a place to settle in for a leisurely drink, with sashimi and small plates alongside.

One visitor ordered dark beer, tuna chunks, macaroni salad, chilled spinach and grilled chicken thigh skewers. The combination lets you build a meal around your drink, choosing from sashimi, vegetable sides and skewers. Other menu options mentioned include tuna head sashimi, horse mackerel namero, an oyster hot pot and deep-fried butterbur shoots—useful pointers if you want to focus on fish or share a hot pot.

Some diners have remarked on the Showa-era atmosphere and the presence of local regulars, making this a fit for anyone seeking an unpretentious tavern. Bakudan is in Koenji-kita, and accepts cash only—worth bearing in mind before you go.