Tokyo, despite being far from the world’s leading natural winemaking regions, it boasts some of the worlds most thoughtfully curated wine lists. Here are some highlights from a recent visit to Japan’s capital.
With over 37 million residents, Tokyo has long been celebrated for its food and drink culture. It holds more Michelin stars than any other city and is home to everything from izakayas and highball bars to listening lounges and cocktail dens.
Adding to this rich scene is Tokyo’s thriving natural wine culture, which extends across its many wards. During our trip, we only scratched the surface—but even that glimpse revealed just how exciting the city is for wine lovers. Below are a few standout spots we visited, recommended for anyone heading to Tokyo or seeking inspiration.
Cyōdo
Located in the Hatagaya neighbourhood just west of Shinjuku, Cyōdo is a warm, intimate space tucked down collegial side streets. It’s a one-woman operation run by Mona, who took incredible care of us—welcoming, informative, and effortlessly engaging.
The food was inspired by french cuisine; twists on classics, simply delicious, and all cooked by Mona. Take the saucisson for example, when asked where the idea for the dish came from she explained it was simply her mothers own recipe. The food is paired with a smart, concise wine listfrom which we enjoyed a standout bottle from Bruno Duchêne: Alba sur Mer (2023), a 100% Grenache from Banyuls-sur-Mer. Light and playful, yet structured—a real pleasure to drink.
If you’re in Tokyo, don’t miss Cyōdo. It’ll be one of the first places I revisit next time.
6 Chome-37-10 Honmachi, Shibuya, Tokyo
Ahiru Store
Often referred to as the natural wine bar in Tokyo, Ahiru Store carries a sense of history and reverence. The walls are covered in signatures from iconic winemakers like Pacalet and Dard & Ribo, a testament to the space’s significance in the scene.
The bottle selection is a dream for natural wine lovers. We chose Jalava (2019) by Axel Prüfer—a 100% Cinsault, full of candied red fruit and signature delicacy. A fun, expressive wine perfect for the setting.
Ahiru Store is essential when in Tokyo. Expect a line unless you arrive early—but it’s well worth the wait.
1 Chome-19-4 Tomigaya, 渋谷区 Shibuya, Tokyo
Chow Chow
Just a short walk from Ahiru Store, Chow Chow offers a more relaxed vibe with a solid by-the-glass list. We sat on the terrace and enjoyed wines like a lively Gamay from Jérôme Balmet and an elegant Chenin from Benoît Courault.
Whether you’re escaping Shibuya’s chaos or kicking off your evening, this spot delivers variety and quality in a laid-back setting.
渋谷, WHARF, 1F, 37-14 Udagawacho, Shibuya, Tokyo
Awai
Tucked away in Roppongi, Awai feels like a secret sanctuary. Behind an unassuming door lies a calming space with only six seats, offering a rare sense of intimacy.
You’re invited into the cellar to choose a bottle or select from the BTG list. We opted for Slatnik (2022) by Radikon—80% Chardonnay, 20% Friulano, macerated for 10 days and aged for 18 months. It had bright acidity and all the hallmarks of Radikon’s unique style.
With a quiet view of Tokyo Tower, Awai is the perfect place to pause and reflect over something special.
Minato City, Roppongi, 6 Chome−6−2 エスポワール 六本木1F, Tokyo
Stand Umineko SiB100 (Honorable Mention)
Though not a wine bar, Stand Umineko SiB100 deserves a mention for its stellar beer selection. Located near the Shibuya Scramble, it offers an adventurous mix of sours, IPAs, bitters, and lagers from Japan’s craft beer scene.
It’s a great detour if you’re in the area and want something offbeat, refreshing, and local.
2 Chome-16-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo
