DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
2025.04.16
A standing bar where you can savor sake from across Japan while enjoying the nostalgic charm of downtown Tokyo.
Nearest Station
"Orihara Shoten" is a standing bar run by a long-established sake shop founded in 1924. Inside, the counters are made from repurposed bottle crates, and the menu features original side dishes inspired by suggestions from regulars. These touches create a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Tokyo’s traditional neighborhoods. Conveniently located just a minute's walk from Monzen-Nakacho Station, along the approach to "Fukagawa Fudoson" temple, this spot offers visitors a firsthand taste of classic shitamachi (downtown) culture.
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Monzennakacho is a town that retains a strong downtown atmosphere. Orihara Shoten, which was founded in 1924 as a liquor store in Ikebukuro, opened a "Kaku-uchi" (corner store) in Monzennaka-cho in 2011.
The shop is characterized by its downtown atmosphere, with a signboard that has acquired a distinctive flavor over the years and a counter made from repurposed empty bottle cases. When you step inside, you will find more than 100 different types of sake bottles lined up in a row, and in the center is a well-worn wooden counter for standing and drinking.
The reused bottle crates turned into counters and other retro features throughout the shop create a charming downtown atmosphere, full of photogenic spots.
More than 100 bottles of sake line the walls, and at the center stands a well-worn wooden standing counter.
"Orihara Shoten" offers an extensive selection of sake, including rare bottles and limited seasonal releases, all sourced directly from breweries across Japan. Among the shop’s standout offerings is a cloudy plum sake, made by steeping high-quality Japanese plums in undiluted sake. Beyond sake, the shop’s drink lineup also includes craft gin produced locally in Fukagawa and distinctive beers from the much-talked-about "UCHU Brewing." Whether you're a sake fan or not, there's something for everyone.
Craft gin is also available as a souvenir!
Distinctive craft beer by UCHU Brewing.
To elevate your drinking experience, "Orihara Shoten" offers a well-curated selection of small bites. In addition to staples like canned goods, pickles, and dried snacks, the shop sometimes serves homemade dishes that vary by the day. A local favorite is the "Tama Konnyaku" (round konjac balls), which are slowly simmered to absorb flavor. Soft, savory, and satisfying, they pair exceptionally well with sake—making them a popular choice among regulars.
Slowly simmered "Tamakonnyaku
A smooth, elegant finish that glides down effortlessly, with a refined aroma that gently envelops the palate. The soft umami of the rice unfolds with each sip, followed by a clean, crisp aftertaste that leaves a refreshing impression. "Yuki no Bosha" Junmai Ginjo (720mL): ¥1,815 Tasting in-store: Large (110mL) ¥520 / Small (50mL) ¥310
This sake balances a mellow umami flavor with delicate aromas. Its light, dry character is free of any harshness, and the clean, cooling finish leaves a pleasant afterglow. "Kirinzan" Junmai Ginjo Yukinoshita (720mL): ¥1,760 Tasting in-store: Large (110mL) ¥520 / Small (50mL) ¥310
A well-balanced junmai sake with a soft, clean texture and a pure, refined taste. The absence of bitterness or off-notes gives it a crisp and polished finish. "Hakurakusei" Tokubetsu Junmai (720mL): ¥1,430 Tasting in-store: Large (110mL) ¥520 / Small (50mL) ¥310
The information contained this article was correct as of 04/16/2025 (the time of publication)
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