The Best Spots for Natural Wine in Tokyo

High-end and fun Izakaya-counter with great sakes and natural wines.Sowado was one of our favorite and most fun experiences without a doubt, and for this one in particular we want to thank Alex, and also Hoze (who pretty much organized our whole trip), for making this happen. The place was probably our favorite when it comes to the interior, deco and atmosphere, which as mentioned was very fun, and even though the place kind of felt high-end, it was still super casual, just a perfect balance.Focusing on the food, some of the dishes we had were the following:* Chawanmushi with kue (grouper), dried sea cucumber & nanohana.* Tofu.* Chu toro sashimi with nori.* Pot with shirako, crispy rice and shiitake.* Turtle egg soup.* Unagi.* Fried chicken.The whole menu is a la carte, and we ordered the most items possible, and we really enjoyed our experience here. On top of that we had some great wines and sakes, actually some of the best of our trip.Definitely a place we want to come back in our future trips to Japan.

A standing wine bar, natural wines & tasty bitesHidden on a backstreet in Shinsen, this hipster haven specializes in natural wines in a chilled-out atmosphere that’s standing-room only. The little sister of the popular Italian restaurant Aurelio, the bar serves tasty bites like green peas and pancetta topped with poached egg and parmesan. No reservations, just walk in and grab a spot at the counter.

Perfect croissants, pastry and sourdough bread and also a wine bistro.When all of the sudden in the midst of Tokyo you will miss your perfect croissant in the morning. Started by the mind behind the L’Effervescence, Shinobu Namae, this is your gluten happy place in the rice country. Indulge in perfect (yet not usually shaped) croissants, monocles with matcha or simply a slice of sourdough bread (baked with Japanese grown wheat or spelt) and some whipped tofu aside. The Bakery shares space with a bistro with a nice selection of European natural wines - if you happen to stay for the afternoon .

Casual but innovative Vietnamese-Japanese fusion by Chihiro Naruto. Bistronomique vibe. Amazing and rare natural wines + sake from Japan and beyond.

Modern Yakitori with WineA modern, spacious restaurant, where the Yakitori menu goes beyond the usual and into seasonal vegetables, and sometimes even duck or other meats. Before I lived in Tokyo, this was always my first post-airport stop. Get one of the tasting menus, and add on as needed. Imai-san is always pushing forward, so you may not see dishes from prior visits. Wine list leans natural but not funky. English menu is available. Reservations essential.