Takadanobaba Biru Koboh

Japan has a marvelous and rapidly developing craft beer industry. I enjoy craft beer, for the flavor and the "non-industrial" nature of the product, but also because I enjoy trying something new and different. Takadanobaba Beer Workshop ("TBW") is a recently opened brewpub offering six or seven ho...memade beers a day. I have visited TBW twice, and each time have been pleased by the atmosphere, vigor/youth, and the experimental nature of the venture. Let me say a bit more. First, a caveat. I do not read or speak Japanese (except for survival Japanese), so some of what I write is an impression, rather than a hard fact. That said, it does seem like this brewpub delights in experimenting with different kinds of hops and the hops being used are highlighted (in English) on a chalkboard inside the restaurant. I visited twice and noticed that the hop offering had changed. So, the beer offerings change, depending on the hops the brewmeister has secured and his whims! The brewpub is open air, at least in the pleasant weather, and it seemed easy to obtain a table next to the outdoors. Upon entering TBW, you notice the shiny brewing vats in the back. While TBW does have a wait staff, the staff does not serve the beer. You proceed to the counter and decide on the quantity and type of craft beer, and then it is served to you while you wait. I believe there are three sizes from which a guest can choose -- I chose a large size, and was surprised at how much beer it held (the beer is served in stainless steel jugs and you are provided with a beer glass). Another thing to note is that your beer glass stays with you. If you wish to change beers (a must in a craft beer pub!), you wash out your glass -- TBW offers a special glass washer that is easy to use -- and continue to use the same glass. Interesting! My suggestion is that guests choose the small size beer jug and that each guest in your party try a different beer, and you share. If you do like I did and get a large container, your opportunity to try other varieties is limited.... Because it is a "workshop," some of the beer, to me, seemed a little experimental, which is great if you are a beer explorer, but may not be something that you want to nurse all evening! If you are searching for a place that serves industrial beer (the global brands), do not visit TBW, because none are offered. The food was nothing very special, but clean and tasty, because the emphasis of the Beer Workshop is on, well, beer! Also, the food was not expensive. Takadanobaba is close to Waseda University, so the place attracts the students and prices must meet the students' budgets. One final note, and a HUGE positive in my book, is that smoking is NOT permitted in Takadanobaba Beer Workshop. How can you taste the nuances of the beer offerings if you are having to contend with cigarette smoke?

Visited July 2016