Located a 5-minute walk from the west exit of Shinjuku Station on the JR lines, this popular bar is known for its magical cocktail creations by Mr. Kanzan. The place was bustling with foreign customers, but luckily we managed to secure two seats. The bar was constantly busy with customers coming in, so we felt quite fortunate to have gotten in. We were mesmerized by Mr. Kanzan's cocktail-making skills at the counter. Sitting at a table at the back, we enjoyed a smooth Whiskey Highball made with Yoichi whiskey and soda. The Highball was delicious with a soft palate, making it a delightful choice. While we should have tried the cocktails, we opted for a light drink and ended up having two Highballs before heading home.

Located about a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, I visited this place after a long time. It was around 11 PM on a weekday, and the place was almost full. The customers were mostly foreigners. I ordered a recommended drink called "Sugarcane Daiquiri" which consists of sugarcane, lime, and gin. The bartender made it freshly by squeezing the sugarcane in front of me. It had a soft sweetness from the sugarcane but was easy to drink and delicious. This place has a foreign atmosphere and offers unique cocktails. I would like to visit again if I have the chance.

This is my third attempt at visiting this place. The first time, I left without trying anything. The second time, I switched to the bar on the 10th floor. And this time, I went to a sister store on the 2nd floor to pass the time. The bar in the Daiwa-ya building where our shop is located is known for being occupied by overseas customers. Around 8:30 PM, we moved from the 2nd floor to the sister store. The sister store on the 2nd floor had more seating options, with a straight counter with 8 seats and 4 tables with 4 seats each, accommodating a total of 4 men and 4 women. We ordered 1. Absinthe and tonic 2. Green leglone 3. Strawberry cocktail. Here are my thoughts: - This bar is the most difficult to grasp among all the bars I've visited so far. - The back counter, lined with bottles of fruit liqueurs soaked in jars like those found in a science lab, gives off a laboratory-like atmosphere with dim lighting. - The stirrers used for the drinks are made from branches of trees like clove and mizunara. - For the Absinthe and tonic, I found it easy to drink when mixed with soda, so I'll skip the details. - For the Green leglone, I requested a cocktail with rosemary, and the presentation involved a grater and a burner, adding an entertaining aspect to the drink. The grassy aroma was quite intense. - For the strawberry cocktail, the strawberry was trapped in ice, creating an artistic appearance. I forgot which alcohol was used, but the strong strawberry scent left a powerful impression. Overall, the Daiwa-ya building houses a variety of unique and high-quality bars, including B&F on the 2nd floor, our shop on the 9th floor, and the Spirits Bar Sunface Shinjuku on the 10th floor.

Ranked 36th in the "World's 50 Best Bars," this famous establishment is known for its concept of "Farm to Grass," focusing on absinthe, gin, and other herbal spirits. The bartender, Mr. Kashiyama, owns a field in Tokigawa Town at the foot of the Chichibu Mountains, where he harvests botanicals for use in cocktails. I visited without a reservation around 8 pm on a Monday, but the place was fully booked, so I had to wait outside. There were many foreign customers. Although it was not crowded when I arrived, more and more people came, and the area in front of the shop became crowded. After about 5 minutes, I was guided inside. I sat at the left end of the counter, which had a stylish ferret stuffed animal on the left side and a fragrant diffuser. The counter had 7 seats, and the bar back was filled with many bottles, resembling a science lab. Mr. Kashiyama, in a white suit, had a very charming smile that made me smile as well. The BGM was jazz piano, creating a calming atmosphere. The lighting was provided by many candles, and the counter was made of a very large wooden piece, which was lovely. - Yuzu Gin & Tonic: Extremely delicious, with the yuzu pulp adding a delightful texture. - White Negroni: Is it white? Is it green? Number 7 of the Green Negroni series had a wonderful aroma, like a scented candle. The white cocktail was fantastic. The bill came to ¥3,900.

I enjoyed a unique cocktail at #Bar #BenFiddich, which is selected every year as one of the top 50 bars in the world. It was my first time at this bar and I always order a Vodka Martini or a Gin and Tonic with ice at -20°C, which are both fantastic classics. There are also plenty of mysterious cocktails to choose from, and the wooden stirrers are a nice touch. The bar uses a variety of materials collected from bars around the world to create their own liqueurs and countless cocktails, making it a fun and enjoyable experience. #WorldBars #EdoGourmet

A bar that fulfills its original function by providing gentle customer service with entertaining suggestions and introducing various options, including other establishments. The Forest Cocktail, with its scent reminiscent of amaretto and refreshing mint, is based on gin and served with a lid on a wine glass, creating a lovely presentation!

I had always wanted to visit this bar, which was ranked 40th in "The World's 50 Best Bars 2020" and 9th in "Asia's 50 Best Bars 2021". Finally, I had the chance to make my first visit and meet the talented owner, Mr. Kajiyama. As I entered the bar, my legs were shaking with excitement. The bar had two floors, with Mr. Kajiyama on the 9th floor. Feeling a bit nervous, I first went to the 2nd floor. It was almost full, but I managed to get a table by the window. The atmosphere was incredible, and I felt a sense of elegance. I ordered a Gin and Tonic and a Sea Breeze, and just as I was enjoying them, I was informed that a table on the 9th floor had become available. I jumped at the chance and waited until the last call to finally make my way to the 9th floor. The atmosphere on the 9th floor was beyond amazing. And in the center of the bar counter was Mr. Kajiyama. He had an outstanding aura and looked very cool. I ordered the most famous drink in the bar, which was known for its herbal ingredients. The cocktail was gin-based and had a strong herbal aroma. When the lid was opened, I couldn't let the aroma escape and instinctively closed it. It was such a luxurious experience. The cocktail was sophisticated and bold, with all the best qualities condensed into one. It was truly impressive. I hope to visit again, maybe next time I can sit at the counter and enjoy the experience even more.

A hidden gem of a bar located a short walk from Shinjuku Nishiguchi. I had been wanting to go there for a while, and finally got the chance this time. As soon as I entered the bar, I loved the natural and cozy atmosphere. It's highly recommended for dates. The bartender is friendly and creates a comfortable vibe. The cocktails use herbs that I had never tried before, making them visually appealing as well. They also recommend various Scotch whiskies based on your preferences. I've been to many bars, but this one ranks pretty high in Tokyo.

Mr. Kashiyama is one of the top bartenders in the world. It was super lucky to be able to sit at the center of the counter where there happened to be an empty seat! In Gaelic, Ben means mountain and Fiddich means deer, so the name of the bar is Benfiddich. He is also known as an agricultural bartender with the concept of "from farm to glass." Last time, I sat in the same spot and had a curry-flavored Moscow Mule. This time, I tried a Bloody Mary and a cocktail called "Lovely Cocktail," as well as a Unicum Negroni. My companion had a Shakotan Botanical Mojito and... I forgot the rest. Mr. Kashiyama's cocktails are truly magical. I've never had such a delicious Bloody Mary, and the Lovely Cocktail with a coffee aroma appeals to all senses of the nose and tongue. In addition, his wonderful customer service and smile are also part of his magical skills. I wanted to try the green curry cocktail made at a tequila event in Tennozu the other day, but unfortunately, I couldn't drink it there. I once again felt the charm of Benfiddich. The cocktails of a bartender who has been selected multiple times as one of the top 50 in the world. If you love alcohol, I highly recommend experiencing it.

I finally visited the BAR I've always wanted to go to. The excitement from before opening the door, and the exhilaration until sitting down, everything was woven together as time passed and I felt "happy" countless times. Whenever I come to Shinjuku, I definitely want to visit here. No, I mean, I'll go to Shinjuku just to come here. Thank you for a very happy time!! I'll visit again soon.

During a date in Roppongi, I mentioned the B&F on the 2nd floor that I visited recently, and my partner got excited and wanted to go there too. Finally, we visited for the first time! When we went up the elevator as the night fell, we were greeted by candlelit signs swaying gently. The entrance had such a great atmosphere! I ordered a "Sichuan Pepper Cocktail," which had Sichuan pepper picked from the owner's garden floating in it, making it a beautiful drink. The refreshing scent of Sichuan pepper spread, making me feel so happy. Next, I asked for something chocolate-like, and I was served a shot of "Creme de Cacao" from Tempus Fugit. It was amazing... I felt ecstatic. Every sip made me close my eyes and savor the moment. Lastly, I asked if there was something even more impressive than Creme de Cacao, and I was recommended "Mint Liqueur" from Cointreau, which was discontinued in the 1960s-70s. It looked like an emerald green sea and tasted like chocolate mint! I also ordered some baked goods, which, when eaten together, made me feel even happier. It was a magical and enchanting night, and I almost felt worried about returning to the real world. Thank you for the wonderful experience! (๑❛ڡ❛๑)♡♡♡

I was brought here by a friend of my senior who is a regular. It was late at night in Shinjuku Nishiguchi, and the place was almost full. The customers were mostly regulars, and it was not a quiet bar for sipping drinks, as there were also table seats. There weren't many young customers. The master was very friendly and made various delicious drinks. It might not be easy to get in, but I would like to visit again if I'm nearby.

If you're a bar lover, you'll immediately recognize the world-famous Benfiddich. I had never visited before because I strongly associated Benfiddich with absinthe, which I'm not a fan of due to its anise and fennel scent. However, on the second day of the New Year, I decided to give it a try as a replacement for otoso. I tried various cocktails such as the Gin Fizz with field herbs, absinthe, kumquat cocktail, Moscow Mule without ginger, homemade Suze tonic, and Sidecar. The experience was fun and enjoyable, with unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere. I regret not visiting earlier, and I look forward to returning when Benfiddich reopens after the current closure.

On a Saturday night, I went drinking alone. Luckily, there was a seat available at the counter. The tables were occupied by a group of Chinese people and it was quite noisy. The staff were friendly and talkative, creating a lively atmosphere, but the interior of the restaurant was unusually dark. I couldn't decide what kind of atmosphere they were aiming for. It seems like they specialize in fruit and herbal cocktails. I tried an original cocktail made with gin, mugwort, and honey, and it was surprisingly delicious. The taste was unique and fresh, with the mugwort being crushed right in front of me. The flavors were excellent, and they offer rare drinks, so I give them a high rating. However, if you don't click with the staff, you may feel uncomfortable. This is not the best place for people who want to drink alone and relax.

I visited this place on top of a mixed-use building. It was surprising to find an available spot on a weekday past 9 p.m. The background music in the store was a soft piano tune. I ordered the "Jack Rose" and it was served in about 3 minutes. The tartness of the pomegranate was delicious.

◼️ A mixology bar popular for its absinthe offerings with a concept of "Farm to glass" by Mr. Hakuyasu Shikayama, specializing in herbal and classic style cocktails. ◆ Mixology Cocktails [Signature Cocktail] Capturing the aroma. ◆ Absinthe La Charlotte A century-old distillery that has been making absinthe even before its ban, producing the drink based on a 19th-century recipe. The label design is also from that era. The drink was first tasted neat, then water was added by Mr. Shikayama himself. Famous as a drink loved by artists like Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Modigliani. Served in a classic style, with an absinthe spoon on the glass, sugar cube, and a special water dripper to create a milky mixture. A drink with a cannabis and herbal flavor. ◆ Suze Tonic A drink popular among artists like Picasso. They also make their own Suze. The genuine ingredients, like the gentian root, can be shown. ◼️ The Venue ◼️ The interior is extremely dark. The staff will light a lighter for taking photos. Credit cards are accepted. No cover charge, 10% service charge. Owned by Hakuyasu Shikayama. In 2013, he opened "Benfiddich," and in 2017, a fruit brandy specialty bar called "BAR B&F." Ranked 40th in "The World’s 50 Best Bars 2020" and 5th in 2022. Ranked 9th in "Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2021." ◼️◼️ The passion here is incredible. They offer homemade absinthe and a variety of herbal drinks, with the rare opportunity to enjoy absinthe in a classic style. The place is very dark, making it difficult to take photos, but it's quite lively, so using night mode with sound should be fine. The owner, Mr. Shikayama, is friendly and knowledgeable. It was a great experience.

Visited on a Saturday around 8:30 PM with 2 people. We were able to sit just as two others were leaving. The next customers were directed to the affiliated 2nd floor as the main floor was full. The place was bustling, seemingly unaffected by the pandemic. They do disinfect, but the bartender was not wearing a mask. From other reviews, I had seen that the owner is called Kajiyama, hence the name BenFiddich (Deer Mountain) and indeed, the interior was filled with deer figurines and paintings. - Orange Soda made with rum: Around 1500 yen Made with cocoa-infused rum, it had a sweet chocolate aroma. The taste itself was not overly sweet, more on the refreshing side. The scent of chocolate and orange was prominent, making it feel like drinking a cocktail while eating orange peel chocolate. I don't usually drink cocktails, but this one was delicious. - Herb cocktail (gin-based): 2200 yen Served in a stylish glass, it was said to evoke the image of a forest. I could enjoy the aroma of herbs like mint and rosemary. There was another herb I couldn't identify. The taste was rich, with a bitter aftertaste. Along with the bitterness of gin, there was also the bitterness of the herbs, resulting in a lingering bitterness. The bill was a bit higher than expected, but I think it was worth it for the experience. Overall, it was a great find. I'm curious about the affiliated 2nd-floor bar.

Located a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station South Exit, "Benfiddich" is a place where you can order individual items after taking your seat. Here is what was ordered (☆ indicates particularly liked items): - Whiskey omakase - Cocktail omakase First, we tried the whiskey omakase. We were served THE SKY, a Ledaig whiskey, which had a great smoky flavor and was very delicious. The round ice was a nice touch. For the cocktail omakase, we asked for something interesting and got a cocktail made with SUZE liqueur. It was my first time trying it and I thought it was delicious. Although we visited early in the evening and the counter seats were full, we were able to sit at a table. The female staff member was very friendly and knowledgeable, making the ordering process enjoyable. The atmosphere was dark and cozy, and it seems like reservations are also accepted. ------Helpful Tips------ Visit Date: At the time of the visit ☆How I Found the Place: Recommended by a friend ①Seating: Tables and counter ②It might be a good idea to make a reservation if possible.

"Whiskey left outdoors to mature in UV light" "Experimenting with aging Islay malt in a swamp, and then after 1 year" "Accelerating oxidation aging with Absinthe" ... These are the titles of bartender Hiroyasu Shikayama's blog posts. He is a talented bartender who travels around the world and is known for his unique experiments such as aging cocktails in unconventional ways. Shikayama serves as the Roppongi branch manager of the Bartenders Association and has been consistently ranked in the top 50 bars in Asia and the world. BenFiddich, the bar where Shikayama works, is known for its cocktails made with fresh fruits, spices, and herbs, especially Absinthe. Shikayama is also known as a "bartender farmer" who grows various herbs in a field in Saitama and uses them in his cocktails. At BenFiddich, the process of cultivation, drying, extraction, and distillation of alcohol is unique, making Shikayama a one-of-a-kind bartender. The bar is located in a corner of Nishi-Shinjuku, in a nondescript building that you might miss if you didn't know it was there. Upon entering the bar, you are greeted by a small space with bottles of herbs and spices soaking in the background, giving the place the feel of a chemistry lab. The dimly lit interior is illuminated by candlelight, creating a cozy atmosphere. I was able to sit at the counter, where Shikayama served me a Martini Gin and Tonic, an original cocktail that was both interesting and delicious. The bar caters to a predominantly male clientele at the counter, while the tables were occupied by women. The bar offers a variety of unique cocktails, such as the "Grapefruit Sour to drink at the bar" and "Seasonal Fruit Cocktails." Shikayama recommended the "Grasshopper" to the customer next to me, which was served with dry ice smoke emanating from an antique device. I also tried the "Fernet Blanca" on the rocks, which had a complex flavor profile with hints of mint and various herbs. The bar specializes in herbal liqueurs, and Shikayama even offered me a 100-year-old Absinthe, which was priced at 15,000 yen per glass. I also tried the "Sweetness Bitterness Acidity" cocktail, a unique twist on the Gimlet made with gin, lime, and sugar. The bitterness came from the Artemisia absinthium used in Absinthe, which was a surprising ingredient. Shikayama's passion for using home-grown herbs and honey in his cocktails was evident in the "Sweetness Bitterness Acidity" cocktail, which had a rich and flavorful taste. The combination of honey and Artemisia absinthium created a harmonious blend that was a delight to the senses. Overall, it was a truly enjoyable experience at BenFiddich."

The second stop on the commemorative day trip was this highly-rated restaurant. There was no standing sign outside, but I easily found the place because I had seen reviews mentioning the building of Nino-ya Curry. It was my first visit on a Saturday night after 8 pm. I sat at the end of the counter in the dimly lit room, where I initially thought there were two bartenders, but then the owner, dressed in a white suit, appeared, making it a total of three staff members. I ordered a Martini for 1,500 yen, which the master bartender made without fussing over the base or wetness - it was a true Martini. I also ordered a Watermelon cocktail (with bourbon) for 1,600 yen, which the owner made by muddling watermelon and shaking it with ice. It was a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail, garnished with a salt rim, which added a nice touch. The bartender, who resembled actor Kazuki Sawamura, engaged in conversation with me, mentioning plans to open a new shop in October in Sanchome. The atmosphere was rich, and as I enjoyed the delicious cocktails, I noticed the place filling up with customers. Despite the lack of a visible sign outside, this restaurant in Nishi-Shinjuku is well-known for its quality cocktails, sophisticated ambiance, and friendly bartenders, making it a popular spot, especially after 9 pm. It was a great experience, and I look forward to visiting again.