Last night, I went to Umeki near Hozoji Temple for the first time in a while. The bar has changed its name from Bar Umeki to Umeki. They offer a Vodka Martini in a rock style, as well as Black Bush whiskey, showcasing their atmosphere that has been established for over a quarter of a century. It was nice to be able to sit back and enjoy a drink in a calm and relaxing setting.

When planning a drinking party in Ura-Namba, I found a shop while exploring for a second party venue. Since it had the same name as a colleague at work, I kept it a secret until just before entering the shop to surprise them. I only informed the young organizer in advance and had them escort me to the shop. I am looking forward to seeing their reaction. When we arrived at the entrance, the company's Umeki-san had a smile on his face as expected. We entered the shop and I introduced him to the master saying, "I brought Umeki-san with me." It turns out that his father is from Oita Prefecture, where this name is common. I thought it might turn into a mini prefectural meeting, but the master is actually from a different prefecture. I had a Talisker half rock. I thought there would be interesting conversations, but it ended surprisingly quickly. We are heading to the third party venue to close the night.

Last night, I went to a hidden bar in Minami called Umeki. Umeki-san's outfit was fantastic - she was able to pull off a special order CHANEL jacket that she only wears once a year. We enjoyed Vodka Martinis and Spritzers while having a cozy time. Cheers to a wonderful evening!

It had been a while since my last visit, and this time I was accompanied by friends. We climbed the stairs with a can of liquor in hand. The interior of the restaurant was as dimly lit as always, creating a unique atmosphere that left my friends wide-eyed. I explained to them that the owner was not actually the famous actor, Tsuyoshi Ukaji. I ordered a gin and tonic and we toasted for the third time today. The drink was dry and delicious. As our conversation flowed, my friends looked around the restaurant curiously, as most guests do due to its unique ambiance. They spotted a container on the table, reminiscent of the ones we used to see at candy stores long ago. Inside, there were matches, a rare find these days. It seemed to be a promotional item. I don't smoke, but I took one as a souvenir. Well, there's no need to overstay our welcome. Let's move on to the next place, my fellow diners. Thank you for the meal.

On this day, the presence of Master Takeshi Ukaji was outstanding. The second party of four middle-aged men was just a 10-second walk from the first party's restaurant. The dim and mysterious atmosphere inside the shop was perfect for the suspicious middle-aged men. Upon entering, we were intoxicated by the atmosphere, then a few minutes later by the alcohol, feeling like drunken returnees. The first drink I ordered was "Talisker on the rocks." A single malt from the Isle of Skye, different from Islay whiskies, but with a similar flavor profile. Strong smell, delicious... a representative manly drink. The senior gentlemen seemed a bit puzzled by the unique atmosphere but were enjoying themselves. As time passed, several guests who seemed to be regulars arrived. Just as everyone has their favorite food, they also have their favorite bars. Sophisticated... I want to say that to the guests who make this bar their regular spot. "Gin and tonic, please." The second drink was the classic cocktail with a lime scent, a heavy drink. This is really good~ The snacks were still the usual dried goods like persimmon seeds and chocolate. And they were quite generous. Drinking with old folks never runs out of topics. Before you know it, the conversation is looping. Well, the conversation never ends... "Jim Beam on the rocks, please." This is a bourbon that my son-in-law loves to drink. Thinking of him living in that place, I decided to have just one glass. Delicious~ This bourbon is sharp and has a good bite, not too sweet. The four of us drank multiple glasses casually and it cost ¥9,600. This pricing is also part of the charm here. It's a bar that you can't pass by when you're in the area. Until we meet again next time, stay healthy everyone... really... Thank you for the meal.

After getting full at the charcoal bar Nenjiro in the Toshiie Yokocho, I opened the door recommended by the manager of Nenjiro. As I opened the door, I was momentarily stunned by its depth. The interior of the bar was dimly lit, or rather quite dark. The background music was nostalgic Showa era songs from the 1940s to 1950s. It perfectly captured the essence of the Showa era. The large-bodied master behind the bar resembled the actor Tsuyoshi Ukaji. I hope he won't bite, right? There were numerous faded label bottles lined up on the back bar. In addition to the bottles, there were figures and trinkets of Kyoro-chan, Peko-chan, Poko-chan, and the Tower of the Sun on the right end. The spherical lighting above the counter shone mysteriously. This place isn't shady, is it? Do they sell illegal substances like illicit powder here? Don't judge by appearances. When I spoke to the very gentle and gentle master, he was very friendly. With a height of about 180 centimeters, he had a commanding presence. The cover charge was ¥500, and shots were generally between ¥700 and ¥1,000. I ordered an Ardbeg on the rocks, while my friend ordered a Salty Dog. Let's toast with the master~! Cheers! The smelly yet delicious drink remains unchanged. The charm included plenty of chocolate flakes, persimmon seeds, and jelly. There was a large amount in the bowl, so I kept nibbling throughout. This space is just too suspicious. The master, who is younger than me but in his mid-50s, answers politely when spoken to. I heard some interesting stories. It seems like it would be quite fun to become a regular at this kind of bar. I wonder how young guests and female guests would react if I brought them here. Well, I'll have to try it out someday~! For the second round, I ordered a gin and tonic. It had a standard taste, on the dry side. Very delicious. This bar is too unique to be called a hidden gem. I'll definitely come back. Thank you for the meal.

Bar Unagiya Saketen used to be located in Shinsaibashi, but it has now moved to Sennichimae. The shop is situated in a narrow alley in the alley of Rihei Yokocho. The location may be a bit hard to find and the entrance may be difficult to spot, but the unique master and the retro Showa-era atmosphere make it worth a visit. While I usually drink whiskey here, their gin and tonic is excellent. The warm atmosphere of the bar also attracts female customers. It is a mysterious space just a one-minute walk from the intersection of Shinsaibashi-suji and Sennichimae.

Today's second stop. After a meal, I decided to have another drink at a bar. I entered a pretty deep place, with an exterior that I would definitely not step into alone. In fact, I heard that the door on the 2nd floor of this bar was relocated from a bar in Amerikamura that I used to frequent, but has since closed down. That bar was my favorite, with a lovely wooden door. Unfortunately, it closed last year and now, after being completely renovated, it feels like all the memories have been torn down. There's a staircase on the right side of the entrance. It feels like a mid-Showa era apartment. I felt a bit anxious wondering what would be at the top of the stairs. I cautiously climbed the stairs and there it was, the familiar wooden door. Nostalgic! I sat at the counter and ordered my favorite Irish whiskey, Jameson on the rocks. Showa era songs were playing inside♪♪♪ The interior, decorations, and every detail exuded a nostalgic Showa atmosphere. It seems like they have a lot of dedication to maintaining that vibe. I really like this place, it's like a hidden gem♪ Bar Umeki Namba, Osaka City, Chuo-ku Namba 1-5-8 Toshihei Yokocho 2F TEL 06-6212-7773 [Tue-Sat] 19:00-3:00 [Sun/Holidays] 19:00-24:00 Closed on Mondays.

Master Umeki, a unique character in a good way, is the owner of the bar Umeki. The previous location was in Unagi Valley, where he also ran a bar. It was a stylish and cool place that young people definitely couldn't enter. The interior had a heavy and sophisticated feel to it. Now, the master seems to have wanted to create a more retro-style place, which is evident in the current bar. There are posters of Nikkatsu Roman Porno films, the interior is primarily red, and the building itself is old and worn. It's a strangely calming place. It seems to have quite a few regular customers. At first glance, the entrance doesn't seem welcoming to newcomers...