Hachigatsu No Kujira - Tokyo

Cinematic cocktail interpretations from a list that you could keep here for days. The cocktail bar looks like a good Japanese cocktail bar should be, but then the menu is something else! Although I usually don't like gimmicky places, that was really interesting! The staff is pleased to tell you the taste profile of the drinks, and the alcohol used, which is good if you are not the adventurous type. We started with standard cocktails and then ventured into the film world based on our favorite films. I finished with Edward Scissorhands, who was a milky, sweet hug that I would like to drink again (with my coffee) Like most things the Japanese serve nothing. The prosciutto we ordered is one of the best I had outside Italy. If you are in Tokyo, go here when they open, sit at the comfortable chairs at the bar and remember that there is alcohol in the cocktails (you can not drink all) I will try to go back when I am back in town! This time, with a notebook!

I like this place, but not every visit is exactly the same. Essentially you pick a movie you like and they decide on a drink that is inspired by it. You have little control over the drink if you order that way. If you're into surprises, it's perfect for you. If not, you're just better off ordering a cocktail of your choice. Keep in mind that bars in Japan still allow smoking, and the tables here are pretty close to each other. I've often spoken to the people at the next table, so the close quarters are fun, just that you may have chain smokers nearby. You can try to order based on any movie of your choice, even if it's not on the menu. Here's where it is a bit inconsistent. Some waitees will then yell out the name to the bartenders who will then say whether they can make it or not (they need to have seen the movie). On some visits the waiters just say no to many movies and never ask. Is it because they know the answer, or they can't be bothered to ask? Every three months they print a new recipe book that they give you at the end of your visit. It's a nice souvenir.

A very special coctail bar, were you order a drink based on a movie title. Usually, you have no idea and can only see the base ingredient such as gin or rum, then it is up to the bartender to interpret and add contents and extras such as fruits. It can be a hit or a miss. The first time we visited in 2016 they had nothing in English, but last time I visited (September 2019), they had an English meny. This can be important because you would like to at least know movie titles on their menu. Well, it was ok to just come up with different movies anyway. We played around and most times the bartender would kniw the movie and interpret it at his pleasure. It can be quite crowded and there is a table charge, also quite expensive, but a very memorable experience.

Interesting bar in the heart of Shibuya. You can get some classic drinks, but you really go for the movie-themed concoctions. Drinks are not outrageously expensive, but the portions are small. Drop in if you’re in the area, if only for one drink.

¥500 of service fee, but everything is great! The drinks are maybe slightly pricey but not that much, and definitely worth it! Try to order a drink created from your favourite movie, the bartender are really nice and helpful! (but maybe we were just lucky)