A Night to Remember at Tender Bar: Our Ginza Cocktail Adventure

If you’re ever wandering through Tokyo’s glitzy Ginza district, looking for a spot that’s a bit off the beaten path but every bit worth the detour, let me tell you about our unforgettable evening at the Tender Bar. Tucked away on the 9th floor of the Sanraku Building along Nishi Ginza Street, this place isn’t just a bar—it’s a high-rise haven where cocktails are more than drinks; they’re an art form.

Walking into Tender Bar, the vibe is immediately welcoming, with a chic, minimalist design that’s both stylish and soothing. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to unwind, whether you’re cozying up at one of the plush tables with friends or pulling up a stool at the sleek bar counter. Here, every guest is treated like royalty, with a warmth and attentiveness that makes the whole experience feel exclusive.

The man of the hour and the star behind the bar is Kazuo Ueda, famously known as “Mr. Hard Shake.” It’s not just a nickname; it’s a legendary skill that draws cocktail lovers from all over the world, including us. We had heard about his magic and couldn’t miss the chance to see it in person. What’s more, my husband had recently bought a book in the US about Mr. Ueda’s renowned cocktail creations. Not only did Mr. Ueda graciously sign it for him, but he also gave my husband a personal hard-shake lesson right there at the bar. It was a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime kind of lesson that we’ll never forget.

Mr. Ueda’s signature move—the “Hard Shake”—is something you’ve got to see to believe. It’s a technique that perfectly chills the cocktails while aerating them just enough to enhance their flavors without dilution. Watching him work is like watching a conductor lead an orchestra; every move is precise and intentional. The drinks he crafts range from 1,600 to 3,000 yen, but each sip is worth every yen. When you take a drink of his signature cocktails, especially the famed Hard Shake, the flavors are so vibrant they almost dance on your tongue.

The menu here is a treasure trove of both classic and innovative cocktails, crafted with impeccable skill and premium ingredients. Whether it’s a rich, smoky Old Fashioned or a refreshing, exotic Lychee Martini, each drink is a masterpiece. The way Mr. Ueda brings out the subtle flavors and aromas in each cocktail is nothing short of wizardry.

What makes Tender Bar stand out isn’t just the exceptional drinks or even the skilled bartending—it’s the whole atmosphere. It’s a sanctuary not just for cocktail aficionados but for anyone who appreciates the fine art of hospitality. The team here is all about the details, from knowing your drink preferences to ensuring that your evening is nothing short of spectacular.

Throughout the night, as we chatted and laughed with fellow patrons—some locals, some tourists like us—it was clear that Tender Bar is a melting pot of stories and friendships. The backdrop of Ginza’s twinkling city lights only added to the magical feel of the place. Here, every moment felt like a scene from a movie, with the buzz of the city far below us and the sublime cocktails in our hands.

In closing, if you find yourself in Tokyo and in the mood for a memorable night out, make your way to Tender Bar. It’s more than just a place for a drink; it’s a destination where each cocktail tells a story and every visit is an experience. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Tender Bar is ready to make it extraordinary. So, come for the cocktails, stay for the stories, and let yourself be swept away by the charm of Ginza’s finest hidden gem. Trust us, it’s an experience that you’ll want to relive again and again.