Samurai or Bartender? 10 Top Tokyo Bars to Try

Bar Centifolia is one of those places you go when you want to feel special. Located in Azabujūban, it's known for its refined atmosphere. It's on the very expensive side, so it’s a spot for a special treat rather than a casual drop-in. With a solid 4.3/5 rating from 688 reviews, many people clearly appreciate its quality. They open later in the evening, from 8:30 PM until 3:00 AM, perfect for a sophisticated late-night drink. Just remember, it’s closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. It's the kind of bar where you can truly relax and enjoy a perfectly crafted drink.

This bar is a real standout, with an incredible 4.9/5 rating from 364 reviews – that's almost perfect! Bar Nishiazabu Serendipity is in Nishiazabu and stays open super late, from 7:00 PM until 5:00 AM, making it ideal for night owls. It's a moderate price level, so you can enjoy fantastic cocktails without breaking the bank. Just note that it's closed on Mondays. If you're looking for a place with excellent service and a great vibe that keeps going into the early morning, this cocktail bar is definitely one to check out. It’s a favorite among locals for a reason!

Right in the lively area of Roppongi, Bar Symbol is a great pick if you’re looking for a reliable and highly-rated spot. It boasts a 4.7/5 rating from 271 reviews and offers a moderate price level. What's handy is that it's open every single day, from 4:00 PM until 2:00 AM, so you can pop in almost anytime. It's a popular cocktail bar, perfect for starting your evening or winding down after dinner. You'll find it on the first floor of the Kawakubo Building, easy to spot. It’s a friendly place to enjoy a well-made drink among Tokyo bars.

With a whopping 1411 reviews and a strong 4.7/5 rating, LOST BAR in Shibuya is clearly a popular choice. This bar offers a moderate price level, which is great for such a well-loved spot in a bustling area. Just be aware of its unique hours: it’s open from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and it's closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. This makes it a perfect spot for an early evening drink but not for late-night revelry. If you're exploring Shibuya and want a well-regarded place for a relaxed drink before dinner or a show, this is a fantastic option.

Shinjuku has its own gems, and Bar Composition is one of them. It has an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 759 reviews, showing it’s a consistent favorite. This cocktail bar is moderately priced and welcomes guests every day of the week, from 5:00 PM until 2:00 AM. It's located in the Shinjuku West Exit Life Building basement, offering a cozy retreat from the busy streets above. If you're wandering around Shinjuku and looking for an expertly mixed drink in a comfortable setting, Bar Composition is a solid choice to add to your list of Tokyo bars.

Another great spot in Azabujūban is Tokyo Confidential. It holds a good 4.5/5 rating from 429 reviews and sits at a moderate price level. This bar is open daily from 6:00 PM until 1:00 AM, with Sundays closing a little earlier at midnight. You'll find it on the 9th floor, which often means some nice views! It's a stylish place to unwind and grab a drink in a chic part of the city. If you're staying nearby or just exploring Azabujūban, this is a friendly and appealing option for an evening out.

In the upscale Ginza area, Punch Room Tokyo is a unique spot with a 4.7/5 rating from 136 reviews. The price level here varies, so it’s best to call to confirm or check their menu directly. It’s a cocktail bar that’s closed on Mondays and Sundays. On other days, it opens at 6:00 PM, closing at midnight Tuesday-Thursday, and 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Located on the 2nd floor of the Tokyo Edition Ginza, it promises a sophisticated experience. If you’re in Ginza and curious about a place with a distinct name and a good reputation, give Punch Room Tokyo a try.

Looking for something a little different? Mezcal, Tequila and Agave Cocktail Bar EL FUJIYAMA is a fantastic choice, especially with its near-perfect 4.9/5 rating from 86 reviews. Located in Azabujūban, this bar specializes in agave spirits, so it’s the place to go for expertly crafted mezcal and tequila cocktails. It’s moderately priced and open every evening from 7:00 PM until midnight, except for Wednesdays when it closes at 11:00 PM, and it's closed on Sundays. If you love discovering unique drinks and want to try some amazing agave creations, this is a must-visit among Tokyo bars.

VIRTÙ is another one of Tokyo's very expensive, high-end bars, earning a 4.7/5 rating from 464 reviews. Situated in Ōtemachi, it offers a luxurious lounge bar experience. It's open every day from 5:00 PM, closing at midnight on most days and 12:30 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. If you're looking to splurge on a truly elegant evening out, VIRTÙ is a superb choice. It’s the kind of place where every detail is taken care of, from the ambiance to the superb drinks. Perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated nightcap.

For music lovers, Jazz Bar Samurai in Shinjuku is a wonderful find. With a respectable 4.4/5 rating from 252 reviews, it offers a moderate price level and a welcoming atmosphere. This bar is open daily from 6:00 PM until midnight, making it a reliable spot for an evening of good music and drinks. You’ll find it on the 5th floor of the Mamoru Building. If you appreciate live or recorded jazz and want to relax with a drink in a classic Tokyo bar setting, Jazz Bar Samurai is a charming place to spend your evening.