Having turned out several Nippon Bartenders’ Association champions, Bar Opa is practically always associated with its Ginza location, while this Monzen-Nakacho outpost, opened in September 2001, gets far less attention. That also means it’s great for a quick drink after work or a laidback evening spent sipping quality cocktails. Opened by the late Kenji Otsuki, who lived in the area and hoped that Opa’s second incarnation would became a casual spot mainly for locals, the bar takes its name from one of Akutagawa Prize-winning novelist Takeshi Kaiko’s essay collections.
To find it, enter one of the narrow alleys east of the station, head up a somewhat unlikely staircase and open the door next to the sign. You’ll find yourself in a spacious room decorated with warm wood. The bar houses a massive, 13-seat counter made from Chinese quince, a bookshelf-like display case packed with bottles, and ample tables that make it easy to fit in.
Also noteworthy is the lengthy food menu: we’re particular fans of the made-from-scratch pizza and hearty pasta. Spacious, casual, great for anything from solo drinking to a date: when in Monzen-Nakacho, stopping by Opa will always bring a smile to your face.