Bar Hoshi – A Jewel of Ginza and One of Japan’s Most Celebrated Bars
Bar Hoshi is owned by Yuichi Hoshi, a bartender widely recognized as one of the most successful in Ginza. Known for his award-winning cocktails at both national and international competitions, he also excels at creating seasonal drinks that highlight the flavors of fresh, in-season fruits. In 2022, Bar Hoshi was nominated as one of Top 100 Bars. This article introduces the bar based on several personal visits and firsthand impressions.
Distinctive Features of Bar Hoshi
Bar Hoshi operates a total of five locations in Ginza, including the flagship, with each floor bustling at peak times with loyal patrons and international visitors alike. Beyond Ginza, Yuichi Hoshi has expanded to his hometown of Aizu in Fukushima and also manages the Pipe no Kemuri Ikegamicho flagship in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, where he trained—making a total of seven locations, an extraordinary achievement for a bartender.
Each branch offers the same award-winning cocktails, ensuring that the signature experience is consistent across locations. Among these, “Sakura Sakura”, which won the 2001 Japan Cup at the International Bartenders Competition, stands out as one of Japan’s iconic cocktails. Another celebrated creation is “Falling Star”, a cocktail born from a bartending competition-winning recipe, said to grant wishes, and cherished by many visitors.
Interior and Atmosphere
Each Bar Hoshi location, including its sister stores, features seasonal floral arrangements that add a touch of nature and elegance to the sophisticated interiors, perfectly suited to Ginza’s upscale streetscape. Despite the luxurious décor, the service remains warm and approachable, creating a welcoming environment. With many international visitors making Bar Hoshi a destination in itself, the bars can feel lively compared to other Ginza establishments, blending high-end refinement with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
On a Thursday evening around 8:00 PM, I visited Bar Hoshi without a reservation. By chance, a guest happened to leave just as I arrived, allowing me to get a table. For the next hour, the bar remained fully occupied with guests constantly coming and going. Given that there are multiple sister locations in the same building, it is often possible to find a table at one of them. However, if you wish to visit the flagship or a specific location, making a reservation in advance is the most reliable approach.
Reservations can only be made by phone: (+81-3-3573-8887).
Menu and Ordering
Bar Hoshi offers a daily selection of fresh fruits, a simple bar menu, and a few meal options such as curry and pasta. Guests are not limited to the written menu; simply asking the bartender allows you to receive personalized recommendations or order according to your mood. Many staff members are fluent in English, making it easy for international visitors to place orders.
A signature touch at Bar Hoshi is the consommé soup served as an appetizer, providing a warm and comforting start to your visit.
Extensive Menu and Signature Cocktails
During this visit, the first drink was a classic gin and tonic, followed by the internationally award-winning Sakura Sakura cocktail.
Its flavor beautifully evokes the essence of Japanese spring, with a perfectly balanced sweetness and acidity. Unlike many bars that simplify presentation for competition-winning drinks, Bar Hoshi places equal care on aesthetics. Each award-winning cocktail is decorated meticulously, reflecting the bar’s pride as one of Ginza’s premier establishments.
In addition to signature cocktails, the bar offers vintage spirits, limited-edition Japanese whiskies such as Hibiki and Yamazaki, and seasonal fruit cocktails. Food options, including pasta and curry, are also available. Many drinks are not listed on the menu, allowing the bartenders to flexibly craft beverages according to your mood.
The service is warm and attentive, contributing to a comfortable and memorable experience. Bar Hoshi undoubtedly stands as one of Japan’s most authentic and distinguished bars.
Exploring Restaurants and Bars in Ginza
Ginza is home to the highest concentration of Japan’s fine dining, including numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. During the day, you can explore lunch spots or ramen shops, while in the evening, enjoying a pre-booked omakase (chef’s choice) course is a must. Afterwards, visiting several bars is a stylish way to round out the night.
Among the bars featured here is Bar Hoshi, which has affiliated locations across Japan, including Ginza. Other notable bars from Bar Hoshi’s protégés include distinguished establishments like Ginza Bar Horikawa. This network offers a glimpse into the legacy and influence of one of Japan’s most respected bartenders.
Discover Fine Dining in Ginza with OMAKASE Japan Eatinerary
Our site offers a curated list of Ginza restaurants available for reservation. You can book some of Japan’s top-tier establishments, including many featured in the Michelin Guide. If you’re looking for the perfect restaurant to visit, check our selection to see if your preferred spot is available!
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