Locating Craftroom takes some effort. Firstly, the bar is tucked two floors below ground in the old-fashioned Osaka Ekimae Daiichi Building in Umeda. Once you reach the right floor, amid a maze of local izakaya, keep your eyes peeled, as the bar is hidden behind a nondescript facade with a sign so small you could easily miss it. Then, when you do find it, you’ll quickly realise just how tiny it is. The bar barely seats ten people, so if it’s full, you may find yourself waiting in line, which is often the case.
But once you’re seated, you’re in for a treat. The warm, cosy space feels homely, with jazz playing softly in the background. The bar is helmed by the 2016 runner-up of the World Class global final, Ryu Fujii, who honed his skills at the esteemed Bar K before striking out on his own.
In 2024, Craftroom made history as the first bar in Osaka to earn a spot on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. The acclaim is well deserved. The menu is a showcase of technique and creativity, with an array of inspired concoctions listed alongside inventive twists on classic cocktails.
Signature drinks include the Ethiopian Night, a tequila-based blend with lemongrass, coconut whey coffee and absinthe, as well as the Koji Picante, which combines jalapeno-infused mezcal with koji, grapefruit and falernum syrup. Also, its housemade pie is widely raved about by regulars, so if it’s on the menu, do not hesitate to order a slice.
Note: Craftroom is temporarily closed for maintenance and will reopen on Friday December 5.