Abbot’s Choice, with locations in Roppongi, Shinjuku and Nakano Tokyo, is not like your typical Japanese bar. In fact, it is completely different. Places like these are few and far between in Japan, a place where bar/restaurant combinations, called ‘izakaiyas’, are generally by and large the more popular beer-drinking locales.

Abbot’s Choice Roppongi was a breath of fresh air. Located on the second floor of a small building in Roppongi, overlooking the infamous nightlife district, Abbot’s Choice possesses a small, though unique atmosphere. The drinking space is equally divided into two sections: the counter and tables, with the emphasis on the counter which is immediately accessible from the entrance. Once seated and greeted, and after noticing the impressive beer and whiskey display and number of taps behind the counter, customers are given a substantial draught beer menu. It is then immediately apparent that this place was created for the world beer lovers.

Abbot’s Choice has the staples: Guinness, Bass, and a couple of Japanese beers on draught. It has also got, true to its name, Abbot Ale on draught: a ripe, fruity, rich and malty beverage. Additionally, there is a healthy selection of European, and American, beer on draught that does not disappoint (not to mention a wealth of whiskey as well). Admittedly, it is a bit on the pricey side (averaging about $9-$10 per pint), but you would be hard pressed to find a better deal, or even find an equivalent.

What else that makes this place unique is the service. Without fail, every pint served was a perfect pour indeed. No worries about unbalanced head levels or the like necessary. The service provided excellent company as well. Two of the three times visited I had ventured there alone. However, I had soon forgotten the fact after sitting down with a fresh draught and the bartender starting up a friendly conversation. It may not seem like a large deal, especially when compared to western bars and pubs, but in Japan it is a rare find when customer service provides you with something more substantial than superficial, overly-polite conversation (usually just for the sake of business). Now granted I am a foreigner in Japan, but the bartender’s attention to the customers remained consistent with everyone regardless. I received other bar recommendations, hangouts, and even was invited to a separate party in the coming weeks from one of the bartenders. Additionally, the other single customers were also pleasantly talkative and nicely complimented the already great atmosphere.

If you ever happen to find yourself in the greater Tokyo area, Abbot’s Choice comes highly recommended for fans of great beer (or whiskey), a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, and for an all around great time. Check them out at: http://authenticbar.com/abbots-choice/index.html