Swan Lake Pub Edo

One of Japan's most established microbreweries, Niigata's Swan Lake marked its 15th anniversary by opening this dedicated pub in Tokyo in May 2012. You'll find multiple Swan Lake Pubs across Tokyo by now, but this place remains the original, real deal. Just a short stumble from Tokyo Station, Swan Lake Pub Edo is normally teeming with office workers who don't know their Asahi from their Aqula – but for the benefit of those who do, there are 30 taps behind the bar dispensing the good stuff. Swan Lake's own beers, including its award-winning Amber Ale and Porter, are available in hearty UK pint glasses for ¥980 a pop, but the selections from other breweries feel a little overpriced, especially in comparison to nearby rivals like Towers and Craft Beer Bar Ibrew. As if to compensate, the staff at Pub Edo comport themselves with absolute precision, extending all the way to the dainty gloves that the barmaid wears while serving beer. Classy. Be sure to try Swan Lake's excellent barley wine, sold exclusively here (albeit straight from the refrigerator – huh?).