Kyo-mode

Tell the bartender what you like in a cocktail, then leave the finishing touches to them. One report from Kyo-mode describes two people ordering cocktails made with Japanese whisky and enjoying drinks with quite different flavours. Another guest asked for a fruit cocktail and discussed their preferences and desired alcohol strength with the bartender. Rather than choosing only from a fixed menu, you can talk through what you fancy that evening.

There is plenty to explore for whisky drinkers, too. The menu includes Scotch, bourbon, Irish and Japanese whiskies, among them Islay bottlings such as Laphroaig 10 Year and Ardbeg 10 Year, as well as Japanese names including Yoichi and Hakushu. Some Japanese distillery selections come with tasting notes. Saburomaru Distillery’s Ocean Blue, for instance, is described as having aromas of peat, ash, candy apple and a faint hint of honey, with a notably tart flavour. Those notes can help guide your choice.

Whisky need not be served neat: one guest describes sipping Japanese whisky while drinking beer. The counter is set relatively low to suit its chairs, and table seating is also available. Whether you want to ask about a cocktail or compare bottles at your own pace, this bar is in Nishikikoji-cho and opens from 19:00 until 3:00 the following day.