From speciality gin bars to secret drinking dens, Tokyo’s bar scene is always an exciting one to explore. But it’s cocktail bars where the city truly shines, consistently earning spots on global rankings like the World’s 50 Best Bars – four Tokyo hotspots made the prestigious list this year. To really drive the point home, Time Out Worldwide’s latest roundup of the world’s best bars has one of our favourite Tokyo spots landing in an impressive sixth place on the list.
In this year’s ranking, Tokyo Confidential made its mark among 18 bars worldwide, trailing only Trisha’s in London (No 1), Fréquence in Paris (No 2), Cape Town's The House of Machines (No 3), New York City's Superbueno and Bar Leone in Hong Kong (No 5). The bars on the list were chosen by Time Out’s writers and international editors, who have all visited these drinking dens themselves.
Situated in Azabu-Juban, Tokyo Confidential is hands down one of Tokyo's coolest cocktail haunts, offering a laid-back vibe and an incredible unobstructed view of Tokyo Tower from its open-air terrace. With its slogan, ‘pull up, ’fess up,’ the bar invites you to let go of life’s pressures, making it the perfect spot for a little escape.
Tokyo Confidential is known for its imaginative concept menus, which change annually. The latest theme, Neko No Densetsu, is inspired by founder Holly Graham’s love of felines – especially the iconic maneki-neko lucky cats, which originated at Tokyo’s Gotokuji Temple.
The story behind the theme is told through a playful comic included in the custom menu, which features inventive drinks like the Arigato El Gatto, a refreshing mix of mezcal, soju, watermelon and chilli; and the Sore Wa Subarashi, a nostalgic concoction made with Frosties-infused cognac, cacao nibs and coconut and served in a retro cereal bowl.
To see Time Out’s full list of the world’s best bars, visit the website.
More from Time Out Tokyo
I’m donut? opens a speciality gluten-free doughnut shop in Shibuya
We visited Okinawa’s new Junglia theme park – here’s what to expect
Film adaptation of cult indie game ‘The Exit 8’ due for release in late August
Roppongi Hills is being taken over by Doraemon for the summer
Pharrell and Nigo team up to open a massive cultural complex in Tokyo
Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.