Hop Seed - Otsu

Cosy bar with a beautiful vibe, friendly staff were happy to make a cocktail that was from the menu. Craft beer is a bit expensive at ¥850 for 330ml but it is worth it. It's on a cool tiny side street in the Gion area.

A beautiful selection of craft beer, whisky, plum wine and Amercian style bar snacks such as tacos and hot dogs. Friendly service, English and no cover for foreigners makes this a good option for tourists who explore Pontocho. The only drawback is that smoking is allowed inside. No Japanese people smoke, but some Western people were.

Absolutely phenomenal place to taste a plethora of Japanese whiskies at relatively affordable prices (eg Hibiki 21 year 2 oz pour for 4K yen bananas cheap, another bar nearby wanted to charge me 7k yen for a 1 oz pour). The bartender knows his stuff!

The beer was very delicious, along with the food we had ordered (frries with anchovies and mushroom, and a salami pizza). The crowd was pretty crowded. I loved the mood of the restaurant, and the owner seemed like a jolly-good person. Would like to visit again.

My wife and I loved this place! The selection of Japanese whisky and beer was fantastic. Even better than that was the conversation with the staff. They are incredibly nice and interlocutor and their English is fantastic. I hope I will return to Japan the next time and reciprocate with some Japanese. Thank you for your hospitality!