Shinjuku-ku

 Nightlife

2025.04.21

The Most Open and LGBTQ+ Friendly Shot Bar in Shinjuku Ni-Chome

AiiRO CAFE

Official Site
address
1F 7th Tenka Building, 2-18-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Nearest Station
Shinjuku-Sanchome station 3 min. walk
URL
https://aiiro-cafe.net
Payment Information
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Rakuten Card, au PAY Card), electronic money (Rakuten Pay, Rakuten Edy, PayPay, au PAY, QUICPay, iD, nanaco, WAON, Apple Pay, transportation system IC)
SNS
Instagram X
Wi-Fi
Available
special remarks
English speaking customer service available

Located in the center of Nakadori, the main street of Shinjuku Ni-Chome, "AiiRO CAFE" is easy to spot thanks to its rainbow torii gate.With no cover charge and a welcoming policy inclusive of all sexual identities, it’s a symbolic presence in the neighborhood. Standing tables are set up outside, adding to its laid-back, open-air atmosphere. The staff includes English speakers, and the crowd is notably international.

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Open to All—Locals, Travelers, and Every Identity

The bar’s English-speaking staff help create a welcoming atmosphere for international guests.On weekends, it comes alive with a diverse crowd of all identities and backgrounds—locals, tourists, and everyone in between.

Chris, one of the staff members, is popular among regulars for his Instagram posts.

A Standing Bar That Encourages Connection

After ordering a drink, customers can stand and mingle either inside or outside the bar.There’s no entrance fee or cover charge.The standing style naturally encourages interaction—perfect for meeting new people.

The bar has a counter inside, along with standing tables outside the entrance.

After ordering your drink at the counter, feel free to move to any open spot and enjoy.

“Nichome” ¥1,400 An original cocktail made with vodka and sakura-flavored syrup.

“Gurrrl BYE!” ¥1,500 The strongest cocktail on the menu.It’s easy to underestimate—until it catches up with you.

“Adios Motherf*cker” ¥1,400 A bold mix of seven different spirits, including vodka, gin, and tequila.This drink delivers a serious punch.

Instead of the typical rainbow flag that symbolizes LGBTQ+ friendliness, a rainbow-colored torii gate—a traditional symbol of Japanese shrines—stands at the entrance.

High-Quality Sound System Powers Weekend DJ Events

On weekends, the bar hosts DJ events featuring up-and-coming artists.As a sister venue to "AiSOTOPE LOUNGE" one of the largest gay clubs in Shinjuku Ni-Chome, AiiRO CAFE boasts a professional-grade sound system.The music lineup spans house, R&B, pop, and more.

Photo: Kawatani Shohei / Text: Nakazato Kotetsu

The information contained this article was correct as of 04/21/2025 (the time of publication)