Bar Benfiddich - A Pilgrimage to the Fruit Farm Cocktail Shrine 🍹
I missed Hiroyasu Kayama’s guest shift at Martiny’s NYC, but only because I’d already booked Bar Benfiddich in Tokyo. Reservations open midnight on the 20th each month (Tokyo time) for the following month—2-hour slots only. Our group of 4 got a side table, so we didn’t chat much with Kayama-san. 🍸 The Vibe: No menu here—a bilingual staffer takes your order. Pro tip: Know your preferences beforehand: • Favorite fruits/spirits • Long or short drinks • Boozy or light • Classic cocktail references This helps you maximize your rounds. Kayama-san’s Instagram (@bar_benfiddich) showcases his creations—spot one you like? Request it! 🍑 The Drinks: Fruit-forward magic with farm-fresh ingredients. Unlike trendy pre-batched/clarified cocktails, these feel rustic and alive—like you’re drinking something handcrafted, not lab-engineered (no shade to other styles!). Spirit-heavy options? Consistently stellar. ✨ Final Verdict: Worth the trip, especially if you score bar seats. Watching Kayama-san work is theater: • Feather-adorned bar spoons • Giant ice crusher appearances • Whole citrus carved tableside #BarBenfiddich #TokyoCocktails #Shinjuku #CocktailArt #DrinkLocal