NYC's New Cocktail Bars: A Fusion of Japanese and American Styles

A New Wave of Japanese-Style Bars in NYC

More than 30 years after Angel's Share opened its doors, a new generation of bars is taking the city by storm, blending traditional Japanese cocktail techniques with American innovation. These bars aren't just serving up drinks; they're telling a story of cultural exchange.

From Traditional to Modern

Angel's Share, the pioneer of Japanese-style bars in NYC, has been a cornerstone of the scene since 1993. Its intimate space, meticulous service, and focus on traditional cocktails have influenced a wave of new bars, including:

• Bar Goto: Kenta Goto, a Pegu Club alum, created a space that embraces Japanese heritage while offering a relaxed atmosphere. His Sakura Martini with sake and a salted cherry blossom is a modern classic.
• Katana Kitten: Masa Urushido's bar is a vibrant and energetic space, showcasing a raucous blend of Japanese and American cocktail culture. Expect loud music, bold cocktails, and a party vibe.
• Shinji's: The team behind the Michelin-starred omakase Noda brings a postmodern twist to the Japanese-style bar, with cutting-edge cocktails inspired by pop culture. The Tropicana, a madcap take on the Screwdriver, is a must-try.
• Martiny's: Angel's Share alum Takuma Watanabe offers a more refined experience, emphasizing traditional Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) with elegant glassware, a relaxed jazz soundtrack, and diamond-cut ice.
• Sip & Guzzle: The newest addition to the scene, Sip & Guzzle, is a dual concept bar, showcasing both American and Japanese styles. Downstairs, Sip offers a traditional Japanese experience, while upstairs, Guzzle offers a more casual, American-style pub.

A Dialogue of Cultures

These new bars represent a new chapter in the centuries-old dialogue between Japanese and American cocktail culture. They are not simply replicating traditional Japanese bars, but rather embracing the uniqueness of both cultures and creating something entirely new. They demonstrate the power of collaboration and how cultural exchange can lead to innovation and creativity.

The future of Japanese-style bars in NYC is bright. As these bars continue to evolve and push boundaries, they are shaping the city's cocktail scene and offering a glimpse into the future of drinking culture.