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Minato

Gen Yamamoto is highly praised for its innovative cocktail offerings, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service. Patrons appreciate the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the personalized tasting experience.

Gen Yamamoto serves as a pivotal community hub in Minato, Tokyo, blending traditional cocktail artistry with a modern twist. This intimate bar is renowned for its omakase cocktail experiences, where patrons can explore innovative flavors that reflect seasonal ingredients. The establishment's dedication to craft fosters a unique atmosphere, inviting locals and visitors alike to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of each drink. This commitment to excellence has garnered a loyal following, making it a go-to spot for cocktail enthusiasts.

Collaborates with local farms for fresh ingredients.

Partners with local artisans for unique glassware.

Engages in community events promoting local spirits.

Gen Yamamoto hosts a variety of events aimed at enhancing community engagement. From cocktail masterclasses to seasonal tasting events, the bar opens its doors to foster a sense of camaraderie among attendees. These gatherings are designed not only to showcase the artistry behind each drink but also to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the craft of mixology, making it a focal point for social interaction in the neighborhood.

Sustainability is at the core of Gen Yamamoto's operations. The bar employs eco-friendly practices, such as minimizing waste through careful ingredient selection and reusing materials. By focusing on seasonal produce, they not only support local agriculture but also reduce their carbon footprint. This commitment to responsibility resonates well with patrons who value ethical consumption, enhancing the overall experience.

Gabrielle Kane: "Gen Yamamoto takes great pride in what he does, and it shows."

Emil Smith Fabricius: "A minimalistic experience with drinks that are simple and seasonal."

For an unparalleled cocktail experience in Minato, Tokyo, Gen Yamamoto invites you to make a reservation seven days in advance. Discover the artistry of mixology and engage with a community passionate about flavor, creativity, and sustainability.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's vibrant Minato City, Gen Yamamoto is not just a bar; it's an immersive cocktail experience that redefines the art of mixology. This intimate establishment, located on the first floor of the Anniversary Building in Azabujūban, invites guests to embark on a unique journey through seasonal flavors and artisanal craftsmanship. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, each cocktail is a carefully curated masterpiece, ensuring that every sip is a celebration of nature's bounty.

At Gen Yamamoto, the cocktail menu is a dynamic reflection of the seasons, with each drink designed to highlight the natural flavors of its ingredients. Guests can choose from a selection of 4 to 7 cocktails, each presented in delicate glassware that enhances the visual and sensory experience. Signature creations include the refreshing combination of cooked ginger and Fuji apple, which offers a delightful balance of spice and sweetness, and the intriguing quince pear with wasabi and apple gin, a drink that tantalizes the palate with its unexpected yet harmonious flavors.

What sets Gen Yamamoto apart is not just the cocktails but the experience itself. The bar operates on a reservation-only basis, allowing for a personalized touch that makes each visit special. Guests are encouraged to engage with the owner, Gen Yamamoto, who is known for his warm demeanor and passion for his craft. This intimate setting fosters a sense of community, where cocktail enthusiasts can share their thoughts and preferences, making each drink feel like a tailored experience.

Gen Yamamoto is renowned for its omakase-style cocktail experience, focusing on seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

Visiting Gen Yamamoto offers a unique opportunity to experience cocktails as an art form, with each drink crafted to highlight the beauty of seasonal ingredients.

Gen Yamamoto is conveniently located near other attractions in Minato City, making it an ideal stop for a night out in Tokyo.

For an unforgettable evening of exquisite cocktails and a serene atmosphere, make your reservation at Gen Yamamoto. Experience the artistry of mixology in a setting that celebrates the beauty of seasonal ingredients. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or simply looking for a unique night out, Gen Yamamoto promises an experience that will linger in your memory.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNkbDRhMXpnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCzplpp-LGGARsszLPxhnHn4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNkbDRhMXpnRRAB

Well crafted cocktails made with seasonal ingredients and the utmost care. You can choose 4-7 cocktails (don’t worry, all of them are quite small) husband and I each had 6 and honestly could have done 7. Everything we had was delicious and interesting. Gen Yamamoto takes great pride in what he does and it shows. While stoic and serious about his craft, he is also welcoming and is happy to answer any questions you have. Highly recommend that you make a reservation here for a unique omakase cocktail experience. FYI no food, just cocktails. My only complaint was that it was very quiet. Could have used some music.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNGcWJIVWNBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCzplpp-LGGARsszLPxhnHn4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNGcWJIVWNBEAE

A minimalistic experience with a host that makes you feel right at home.
The drinks were simple and seasonal.
They had between 2-3 ingredients. So each flavour was clear and easy to recognize. We went with 6 drinks and I only disliked one of them. The rest were really great.
The atmosphere was relaxed and Gen was kind and welcoming.

It is a great drink omakase experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOaXJEUDNBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCzplpp-LGGARsszLPxhnHn4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOaXJEUDNBRRAB

Most unique flavors I’ve ever tried. Omakase cocktail experience. Ingredients are farm to table so super fresh. Can’t taste much of the alcohol, more like juice but super unique concoctions. Ex: cooked ginger + fuji apple, quince pear + wasabi + apple gin, matcha kiwi. Drinks change often. Environment is super zen. If you want alc forward don’t come here. Need res, $$$. Owner is great

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURScXB6VjVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCzplpp-LGGARsszLPxhnHn4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURScXB6VjVBRRAB

YES! Definitely come here if you are in Tokyo. Cocktail as an art! Like some negative reviewers said, the alcohol content here is not high, so this is not your place if you are trying to get wasted. But the way delicate natural flavors were mixed with different liquor was stunning. Throughout the evening I was in awe of the beauty of it all, which is something I had never quite felt with cocktails or just any type of alcohol in general.

Call a week ahead of time to book your seats. The owner speaks very good English!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWaktLTFVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJCzplpp-LGGARsszLPxhnHn4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWaktLTFVnEAE

Having spent several reviews slagging off the "tell me what you like to drink and I will make you a pleasant fruity drink with not much alcohol in it" craze still apparently sweeping Japan's bar scene (is it over yet? please tell me it's over), I come to Gen Yamamoto.

Ostensibly, this is a very similar concept - simple drinks, some no more than a few sips, each consisting of one kind of alcohol and one (or at most two) juice flavours - strawberry, mikan, tomato and shiso, matcha, ginger. And yet...

And yet, it somehow works. The fruits are carefully chosen from what is in season; the alcohol is premium; the combinations carefully thought through in advance; the glassware gorgeous and delicate heirlooms; Yamamoto-san is quiet voiced and serious as he explains the next drink.

It's ... the word I am searching for is "ceremonial". This is like a reverential tea ceremony, except with fruit and booze.

The young couple who attended when I did were respectful, but (I suspect) walked away wondering what the hell that was all about and craving a beer. I won't claim to be much more enlightened or any wiser, and yet I really enjoyed myself.

Would I visit again? No - I suspect, like a tea ceremony, for most of us once is enough, but I am very glad I went.

Reservations were easy to secure by calling Yamamoto-san seven days in advance.

Experience Omakase Cocktails at Gen Yamamoto, Minato Tokyo

Gen Yamamoto, a seasoned bartender with experience in New York, opened his own bar in Tokyo in 2012, offering an omakase-style cocktail experience that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and personalized service.

Explore the legacy of Gen Yamamoto, a pioneer who transformed Tokyo's cocktail scene with his omakase-style bar established in 2012, renowned for its seasonal ingredients and personalized service.

From its opening in 2012 by seasoned bartender Gen Yamamoto, who gained experience in New York, to its recognition as Japan's top bar in 2020, this establishment has crafted a niche for bespoke cocktails that emphasize seasonal freshness and meticulous attention to detail.

Dine In

Restroom

Reservable

Serves Cocktails

In the vibrant heart of Azabujūban, Gen Yamamoto invites you into a realm where tradition and innovation coalesce over a glass. This charming establishment, tucked within the famed Anniversary Building, specializes in the art of sake and cocktails, weaving Japanese culture into every carefully crafted drink. The ambiance hums softly with the chatter of patrons and the clinking of glasses, all while a flickering candlelight casts a warm glow on wooden surfaces, inviting you to linger a little longer. Gen Yamamoto is more than just a bar; it's an experience that engages the senses. Skilled mixologists artfully blend seasonal ingredients, each creation echoing the essence of Japanese craftsmanship. Sip on unique concoctions infused with local fruits, herbs, and spices—each cocktail tells a story, encapsulating the flavors of Japan’s lush landscapes and rich heritage. The bar’s curated sake selection showcases the finest brews from an array of artisanal producers, inviting enthusiasts and novices alike to explore this quintessential Japanese beverage. Allow the knowledgeable staff to guide you through the subtleties of taste and aroma, creating a personalized tasting journey that captures the spirit of Japan. As night descends and Tokyo's vibrant streets come alive, Gen Yamamoto stands as a serene escape, a haven for those seeking a moment of tranquility amid the bustling city.

Gen Yamamoto

Experience a curated selection of seasonal cocktails crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

Konatsu (Japanese citrus fruit) with rice wine shochu and cucumber

Strawberry with sweet potato shochu and basil

Ginger with barley shochu

Fava bean with milk and sweet dessert sake

Kiwifruit with roasted soybean powder and distilled rice sake

Plum from Amami island with purple potato sweet shochu and topped with hibachi

Ume (plum) infused with Yamasaki twelve years aged whiskey and passion fruit from Okinawa

Mikan tangerine and rye whiskey sprinkled with finely diced daikon radish

Dadachamame (a type of edamame) with apricot brandy, milk, and green yuzu peel

Seasonal Cocktail Tasting Menu

Located in the bustling Azabujūban area of Minato City, Gen Yamamoto presents a unique omakase cocktail experience that emphasizes seasonal ingredients and Japanese flavors. Each cocktail is crafted with precision, showcasing a minimalist approach that highlights the natural essence of the ingredients. This bar is not just about drinking; it’s a celebration of the art of mixology, where each sip invites patrons into a world of subtle tastes and aromas.

Konatsu with rice wine shochu and cucumber: A refreshing starter featuring Japanese citrus.

Strawberry with sweet potato shochu and basil: A sweet and herbaceous combination.

Ume infused with aged whiskey and passion fruit: A complex and flavorful cocktail.

The bar offers a carefully curated selection of cocktails, each designed to enhance the flavors of the seasonal ingredients. Pairings are thoughtfully chosen, often highlighting the harmony between freshness and spirit. Yamamoto's expertise in mixology ensures that every drink is an exploration of taste, offering an experience that transcends traditional cocktail culture.

Gen Yamamoto does not primarily focus on food, but the cocktails are crafted with consideration for dietary preferences and allergens. Seasonal ingredients are sourced carefully, ensuring freshness while being mindful of dietary restrictions.

For a truly immersive experience, guests are encouraged to try the signature omakase cocktail journey, where the chef curates a selection of drinks tailored to the season. This allows patrons to explore the full potential of flavors while also appreciating the artistry involved in every creation.

Embark on a distinctive cocktail experience at Gen Yamamoto in Tokyo, where seasonal craft drinks await to tantalize your palate. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot at this unique destination.

Discover Gen Yamamoto in Minato, Tokyo—a unique bar offering exquisite sake and cocktails in an enchanting setting. Join us for a memorable night!

Gen Yamamoto: Elegant Bar Experience in Minato, Tokyo

Minato City

A four-course tasting menu featuring seasonal cocktails crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

A six-course tasting menu featuring seasonal cocktails crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

Nestled in the heart of Azabujūban, Minato City, Tokyo, Gen Yamamoto is not just a bar — it’s a refined journey into the art of seasonal cocktails. This intimate establishment redefines cocktail culture with its unique omakase-style tasting courses, where each drink is a carefully crafted masterpiece made from fresh, farm-to-table ingredients and premium Japanese spirits.

An Omakase Cocktail Journey Like No Other

At Gen Yamamoto, you select a tasting course of 4, 6, or 7 cocktails, each sip-sized but bursting with complex flavors. Every cocktail showcases the best of the season’s produce — think combinations like cooked ginger with Fuji apple, quince pear with wasabi and apple gin, or matcha with kiwi. The emphasis is on clarity of flavor and balance, with just two to three ingredients per drink, allowing the natural profiles to shine alongside premium alcohol.

This minimalist bar exudes a zen-like, serene atmosphere, perfect for savoring each cocktail as a moment of calm and contemplation. Gen Yamamoto himself is a gracious and knowledgeable host, guiding guests through each drink with thoughtful explanations. The experience is more ceremony than casual night out — a place to appreciate cocktail craftsmanship over quick rounds.

 – Book at least a week in advance to secure your spot.

 – Focus is purely on the cocktail tasting experience.

 – Ideal for those seeking a meditative and unique drinking experience.

 – Convenient payment options for travelers.

Unlike busy cocktail bars, Gen Yamamoto offers a ceremonial experience akin to a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, but with cocktails. The use of heirloom glassware and the careful selection of seasonal fruits elevate each drink to an artistic expression. The delicate balance means the alcohol taste is subtle, making it perfect for those who appreciate flavor nuance over potency.

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a foodie seeking new tastes, or a traveler wanting a memorable Tokyo night, Gen Yamamoto offers an unforgettable, elegant escape into Japan’s seasonally inspired mixology.

gen yamamoto tokyo bar experience overview 

Nestled in the heart of Minato City, Tokyo, Gen Yamamoto offers a distinctive and artful cocktail experience that captivates connoisseurs and curious travelers alike. This intimate bar embraces a serene, minimalist aesthetic, accommodating just eight guests at a time, which creates an exclusive, personal atmosphere perfect for those seeking a refined night out.

At Gen Yamamoto, guests indulge in an omakase-style tasting menu of cocktails, expertly crafted with seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients. Each drink is a small, beautifully balanced creation, often composed of just two to three elements, allowing the distinct flavors of fresh fruits and premium spirits to shine. This approach elevates cocktails to a ceremonial art form, offering an experience that is both refreshing and thoughtfully curated.

 defines the setting at Gen Yamamoto, with a quiet, zen-like ambiance that enhances the thoughtful drinking experience. The owner, Gen Yamamoto himself, offers warm and personalized service, sharing his passion and answering questions with quiet enthusiasm, making guests feel truly welcomed and engaged.

While the experience is exceptional, potential visitors should note several factors before planning their visit. Seating is extremely limited to just eight seats, necessitating advanced reservations—often a week in advance—to secure a spot. The price point is notably higher than typical bars, reflecting the quality and artistry of the cocktails served.

Limited seating requires early reservations

Higher price point compared to typical bars

 – Reflects the premium, handcrafted nature of the cocktails.

 – The focus is purely on the cocktail journey.

No background music may feel quiet to some

 – The tranquil atmosphere is not for those seeking lively bar vibes.

For those looking for a sophisticated and innovative cocktail experience in Tokyo, Gen Yamamoto stands out as a must-visit destination. Its commitment to seasonal ingredients, meticulous craftsmanship, and the ceremonial presentation of drinks offers an immersive journey beyond typical nightlife. Whether you are a cocktail aficionado or a traveler seeking unique local experiences, this bar provides an intimate escape into the artistry of mixology.

Tokyo

Discover Gen Yamamoto in Minato, Tokyo, offering innovative seasonal cocktails in an intimate omakase-style setting. Reserve now!

Gen Yamamoto: Unique Omakase Cocktail Experience in Azabujuban, Tokyo

Enjoy a personalized, seasonal cocktail tasting at Gen Yamamoto, a highly acclaimed bar in Minato, Tokyo, known for its bespoke drinks and intimate atmosphere.

Explore Gen Yamamoto, Tokyo’s Premier Cocktail Bar in Minato

Learn about Gen Yamamoto, a renowned Tokyo bar serving craft seasonal cocktails since 2012, with a focus on fresh ingredients and exceptional service.

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