Nihonshu Hotaru

This microbrewery izakaya near Tokyo’s Imperial Palace serves up sake varieties that even the most well-versed connoisseurs won’t have tried. That’s because they specialize in a style which fell out of fashion. Doburoku is a rare variety of unpressed sake which is regulated carefully due to its association with unlicensed home brewing. There aren’t many breweries equipped or allowed to make it. Nihonshu Hotaru, however, makes a great glass. Owner Miyai Toshiomi wants to share the history of sake with a new generation, and believes this traditional style is important to the culture. They brew it right there on the premises, so this is the best place to try a cup of this relatively rare, milky-white drink. The bar itself is a trendy modern gastropub space with metal fixtures and bare wooden furniture. They serve up high-quality izakaya food such as cheesy ham cutlet and delicious skewers. A wide range of sake is also available, so chances are they also have your favorite types in stock too. To get a glimpse of the future of Japanese sake, while savoring its history, grab a seat at Nihonshu Hotaru. Getting your drink on has never been so cultured!