E.T.A.
What is a tachinomiya?
In Japanese, tachinomi translates to "standing while drinking." Ya means "shop or store." The origins of tachinomi date back to the Edo period. It is said to have started at a sake shop called "Toshimaya" in Kanda, Tokyo. They provided masuzake - square-shaped sake cups and served sake and miso-marinated grilled tofu as a side dish. This was the beginning of tachinomi, also the precursor to modern izakaya (Japanese-style pubs).
What is standing bar etiquette?
Tachinomi-ya are often tiny bars with minimal space even to stand. Although small and often very narrow, they can still be vivacious places. They are also typically very affordable.
Each tachinomi bar will have slightly different etiquette, so if you're a first-timer, it is best to watch how people act. Some places may expect you to yell your order to the bar staff, particularly when ordering drinks.
The staff may approach you and ask for your drink order elsewhere. Beer, sake, and highballs are popular drinks. If you are unsure what drink to order, you can ask for the recommendation of the day or the bartenders recommendation.
When visiting tachinomi bars, it is better to avoid visiting in large groups as the bars are small and may not be able to accommodate your group and locals simultaneously. If you want to visit in a large group, call ahead and make a reservation. Some places may provide seating if requested. When visiting a tachinomi bar, it is also best to leave quickly
- usually, one hour is recommended. This allows for a constant flow of customers coming in and out.
Open weekly, right next door to The Warren:
Wednesday - Saturday: 5pm-12am