A casual "Japanese whiskey" bar (since 2015, according to another source. Oh, I didn't realize it is 10 years already since their opening!). The name of the bar was taken from the very famous old TV dram "Taiyo ni Hoero" from 1980s, which was featuring Yujiro Ishihara and his group members as the cops (police men). I believe that the bar doesn't have any relations with those actors or TV program, but is just respecting the atmosphere.
They moved the location for one block in 2023. Current location as of 2025 is "bell Ginza-II Bldg 2F, 8-6-7 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0061 Japan". Please don't go to the old place.
The bar is offering many Japanese whiskeys mainly with some food. Not only Hibiki or Ichiro's Malt, but also various bottles from local breweries in all over Japan. Last time, I chose a shot of Akkeshi with rock, which was brewed in east side of Hokkaido since my friend is living in the same city. It was very smoky and I can recommend it if you like Yoichi.
This restaurant is offering some foods, but one special food is "Katsudon" (poke cutlet cooked with egg in the rice bowl). Katsudon is the iconic food in the cop movies in Japan, and sometimes it is used as a tool to get some testimony from the suspects. Anyway, this Katsudon takes some time to cook like 15 minutes, so, you may need to order when you have time.
The bar has the very clear price system and no worries of overcharge. Table charge is 1,650JPY per person, and whiskeys are 1,000JPY, 2,000JPY, and 3,000JPY per glass, depending on the whiskey grades (Hibiki 12+ years is at 3,000JPY, of course).
I am using this place once or twice per year, but I feel like at home since I am following their facebook page and I know their latest mood.
A small problem they have is probably they are not so good at English communication. But they are trying to communicate with gestures, I am sure that you can enjoy some Japanese...
Read moreThis establishment is truly one-of-a-kind, and "wonderful" is perhaps the most fitting word to describe it.
Named "Nanamagari Police Station" after a classic Japanese police drama series, this unique bar features an interrogation room modeled after those found in Japanese police stations. The bar is fully equipped with police-themed items like toy handguns and handcuffs, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in the role of a detective.
However, it's far more than just a themed entertainment venue.
The bar boasts an impressive selection of rare Japanese whiskies, and I've had the pleasure of sampling various offerings. The owner, Mr. Onodera, is an exceptional host.
When visiting BAR Nanamagari Police Station, their signature "Katsudon" is an absolute must-try.
In Japanese police dramas, katsudon (a bowl of rice topped with deep-fried pork cutlet) is traditionally served during interrogations. The katsudon here is arguably the best in Japan. I can confidently say that missing out on this dish while in Ginza would be a regrettable life decision.
Their famous katsudon was created by Yuzo Gucchi, a well-known Japanese impersonator and katsudon enthusiast. When you lift the lid of the bowl, you'll find a generous portion of crispy pork cutlet alongside a large, slightly sweet pickled radish. The dish is garnished with green onions and shiso leaves nestled between the cutlet and perfectly cooked rice. The katsudon is a masterpiece - the crispy yet juicy cutlet creates an unprecedented harmony with the green onions, shiso leaves, and rice, making your mouth water with every bite. The flavors develop and intensify as you eat, creating what I would genuinely call Japan's finest katsudon experience.
Without a doubt, BAR Nanamagari Police Station is my must-visit destination whenever I'm in Tokyo's...
Read moreIf you’re a fan of Japanese whisky or just great food, this bar is an absolute must-visit.
The selection of Japanese whisky is outstanding — from classic labels to rare finds. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, offering personalized recommendations based on your taste. I discovered a new favorite thanks to their spot-on suggestions.
But the real surprise? The katsudon. Yes, katsudon at a bar — and it’s phenomenal. Perfectly crispy pork cutlet, savory egg, and fluffy rice come together in a dish that’s not only comforting but seriously impressive. Paired with a glass of whisky, it made for one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Ginza.
The atmosphere is that of a refined hideaway — quiet, intimate, and full of charm. It’s rare to find a place that balances playfulness and true craftsmanship this well. I’ll...
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