Wachi is one of the finest craft beer establishments in Japan. While a great selection of craft beer, including rare imports, together with affordable prices can be matched by anyone, Wachi brings unusual varieties of grilled and smoked food to the table. It’s not a craft beer bar, but a dining experience complemented by craft.

Five draft beers are available and three of them are Japanese craft. Wachi also serves a real ale—often something from Minoh. The owner, Shungo, is very knowledgeable about craft beer and the brewers themselves. He serves his drafts selections in good condition for affordable prices. If he is not too busy behind the counter, he’ll strike up a conversation about beer. Pints are less than ¥1000. The big draw, however, is the selection of nearly 40 bottled beers, including some American craft we’ve seen nowhere else. The selection also covers the range of styles, from wheat beers to double stouts and barley wines.

Definitely come to Wachi with an appetite. The grilled and salted fish is a must. So are the smoked selections, like boiled egg slices, tofu and chicken. You can get a small sampler platter of five varieties for ¥1200. Go for some of the eclectic items on the menu, too, like Okinawan tofu with pickle sauce—try pairing with beers. The menu also features more standard pub fare, like a great shepherd’s pie, pizzas and fish and chips. There’s likely something on the menu for everyone. Wachi takes reservations for larger groups and also fills up with the local after-work crowd, becoming a boisterous place. It’s also open until 4am, making it to the last stop for many a dedicated drinker.

Japanese translation coming soon.