[Carefully Selected by Gourmet Journalists] 10 Delicious Izakayas & Bars in Nishi-Shinjuku! Only Recommended Spots Based on First-Hand Experience

Nishi-Shinjuku is home to many delicious bars and izakayas that are perfect for a date. From cozy, dimly lit spaces to spots offering carefully crafted dishes and a wide selection of drinks, there are plenty of places to create a dramatic and memorable evening for two.

In this article, TOKYO LOCAL features 10 carefully selected izakayas and bars where the author, a Tokyo local, personally visited and confirmed the quality of the food and atmosphere.

These places are ideal for after-work drinks, special anniversaries, or even casual dates. Be sure to read to the end — you’re guaranteed to find the perfect spot for a successful next date!

Sagano Sakaba

Sagano Sakaba is an izakaya located near the station, specializing in local cuisine from Mitsuse Village in Saga Prefecture, including Mitsuse Aka-dori (red chicken) and Saga vegetables.

The atmosphere is stylish, bright, and clean, setting it apart from typical smoky yakitori restaurants.

The recommended dish is, of course, the yakitori made with Mitsuse Aka-dori, but regulars also love the Egg Soup served as an appetizer. The rich dashi flavor gives it a taste similar to chawanmushi (savory egg custard).

Among the skewers, the Liver Sashimi-style Tataki is highly recommended. The liver is prepared using low-temperature cooking, giving it a tender texture that melts in your mouth — similar to fresh liver sashimi.

Another popular dish is the Shrimp Shumai — large and satisfying dumplings that provide both flavor and volume.

Despite being a yakitori restaurant, the refined atmosphere makes it suitable for a first date. Its hidden, signless entrance adds to the charm, making it a true hidden gem.

Marudori Ruisuke

Located about a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (West Exit), Marudori Ruisuke is an izakaya specializing in chicken dishes and seasonal vegetables. The stylish exterior, designed in the style of a traditional Japanese house, gives it a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant’s signature dish is the Marudori Suage (Whole Fried Chicken) — a half chicken served whole, making for an impressive visual and flavorful experience. The skin is crispy, and the meat is juicy and tender — perfect for sharing.

Their Liver Skewers are also popular, but they tend to sell out quickly, so order early if you want to try them.

The restaurant features a U-shaped counter, creating a lively and interactive dining experience. There are also table seats available, but the counter seating provides a more engaging atmosphere, perfect for a fun and casual date rather than a quiet, intimate one.

The side-by-side seating setup is ideal for couples, allowing for a relaxed and natural atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks, good food, and conversation. The lively yet cozy setting helps create a comfortable and enjoyable time together.

Caldo

Located about a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (West Exit), Marudori Ruisuke is a stylish Italian-style café and bar known for its cute and chic interior — making it especially popular with women.

The restaurant’s specialty is the “Drinkable Pancakes.” True to the name, the pancakes have an incredibly light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth the moment you take a bite — pure happiness in dessert form.

Their pasta dishes are also popular for meals. Additionally, they offer an all-you-can-drink wine course for ¥5,500, which is considered a great deal and is popular among customers.

While it’s perfect for meals, it’s also great for a casual café visit. Finishing your date with their signature pancakes is highly recommended. The seating arrangement includes side-by-side seats, making it a comfortable spot for a cozy and relaxed date.

YAKITORI SAGOEMON

Located about a 5-minute walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station, Marudori Ruisuke is a stylish and modern kushiyaki (grilled skewer) restaurant. Its chic and contemporary vibe makes it feel more like a trendy night café than a typical yakitori spot.

The interior also reflects this stylish atmosphere, yet maintains a casual and relaxed feel, making it easy to enjoy a laid-back meal. The customer base consists mainly of couples and female guests, giving it a calm and date-friendly vibe.

The seats are compact, which naturally creates a sense of closeness — ideal for couples looking to enjoy an intimate dining experience.

A standout feature of the restaurant is the generous portion size of each skewer. The large skewers are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors together.

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For fans of raw meat, the rare skewers and the Three-Kind Chicken Sashimi Platter are highly recommended. The fresh, springy texture of the chicken is a must-try.

Since it’s a popular spot, walk-ins are rarely successful. To avoid disappointment, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Shinjuku Bar

Located about a 2-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Shinjuku Bar is a budget-friendly standing bar (tachinomi) where you can enjoy delicious drinks and snacks at reasonable prices. It’s located in the basement of a building, with a retro and inviting atmosphere that makes you want to stop by.

This spot is perfect for couples who’ve been together for a while and want to casually drop in for a quick drink. Of course, it’s also welcoming to solo visitors, making it a versatile and easygoing choice.

The recommended menu items include:

• Oyama Chicken Yakitori – Tender and flavorful, grilled to perfection.
• Motsuni (Stewed Offal) – Slow-cooked until soft and rich in flavor.
• Oyama Chicken Tsukune Set – The bar’s specialty, featuring four different tsukune (chicken meatballs) skewers for just ¥500 — a great deal!

With its casual and approachable vibe, Shinjuku Bar is perfect for starting the night or stopping by for a quick drink after a meal.

Maguro and Saba Small Plates (Nishi-Shinjuku)

Maguro and Saba Small Plates (Nishi-Shinjuku)

Located about a 5-minute walk from Nishi-Shinjuku Station, this specialty restaurant focuses on maguro (tuna) and saba (mackerel) dishes. The L-shaped counter resembles that of an upscale kappo-style restaurant, combining elegance with a relaxed atmosphere.

The menu is centered around fresh maguro and saba, offering a wide range of carefully prepared dishes.

The signature dish is the Hon-Maguro and Toro Saba Small Plate Assortment — a must-try item when you visit. They also serve rare and flavorful cuts such as hon-maguro no nōten (tuna crown) and hoho-niku (cheek meat), which are known for their rich taste and soft texture.

A personal favorite is the Hon-Maguro Nakaochi and Takuan Roll (a variation of toro-taku roll). The red vinegar sushi rice enhances the natural flavor of the maguro and makes for a visually appealing dish.

This is the perfect spot for fish lovers, especially those who appreciate high-quality maguro and saba. While there are table seats available, the counter seating is recommended for a more intimate and authentic experience, especially for smaller groups or couples.

Monja Sakaba Dashiya (Nishi-Shinjuku 1-Chome Branch)

Located about a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (West Exit), Monja Sakaba Dashiya is a lively izakaya specializing in monjayaki — offering both classic and creative flavors.

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All monja dishes are reasonably priced at ¥990, and the all-you-can-eat option is available for just ¥1,980 — making it an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy good food and drinks on a budget.

Despite the low prices, the ingredients are generous. The recommended Seafood Monja is packed with large pieces of shrimp and scallops, offering both rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Since the restaurant is small and lively, it’s not suited for a quiet or romantic date. However, it’s perfect for a fun and energetic night out where you can eat and drink to your heart’s content.

Part of the fun comes from cooking the monja yourself on the teppan, adding an interactive and entertaining element to the dining experience. This spot is highly recommended for those looking for great value and a relaxed, lively atmosphere.

Kan Agari

Located about a 7-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Kan Agari is an izakaya specializing in robata-yaki (charcoal-grilled dishes) and nurukan (warm sake). Its standout feature is the large robatayaki grill at the center of the counter, where fresh fish and vegetables are grilled to perfection right before your eyes.

The signature dish is the Whole Grilled Fish, featuring seasonal fish delivered directly from the port. Since the type of fish changes daily depending on the season and supply, you’ll have a fresh and exciting experience each time you visit.

Another highlight is the Donko Shiitake Mushrooms from Tsukiyono Mushroom Farm in Gunma Prefecture. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the natural umami of the mushrooms, making it a hit with mushroom lovers.

Kan Agari also takes pride in its rice, prepared with care to complement the flavors of the robatayaki dishes.

Enjoying freshly grilled fish and flavorful rice with warm sake in a cozy setting makes for a uniquely satisfying dining experience.

WA-DINNER Ki

Located along Otaki Bridge Street near Shinjuku West Exit, WA-DINNER Ki is an izakaya with a striking name and a unique concept. The restaurant offers authentic Japanese cuisine using seasonal ingredients sourced from all over Japan.

The most distinctive feature of WA-DINNER Ki is the contrast between the bar-like interior and the authentic Japanese cuisine it serves. The stylish bar atmosphere combined with high-quality Japanese dishes creates a unique and surprisingly comfortable dining experience — ideal for a date.

The standout dish is the Buri Shabu (Yellowtail Hot Pot) — a truly exceptional dish. The fresh yellowtail and vegetables create a rich flavor that warms you from the inside out, leaving you feeling completely satisfied.

Other menu items, including the sashimi and seasonal dishes, are also carefully prepared and beautifully presented, offering a satisfying experience for both the eyes and the palate.

Finding a place that serves delicious buri shabu at this price point is rare in Shinjuku, making WA-DINNER Ki an especially attractive option during the colder months.

Sururi Shinjuku Main Branch

A udon dining restaurant run by a seasoned Japanese chef with experience at top-tier ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants). It offers a refined atmosphere and high-quality food at reasonable prices, making it suitable for both dates and casual gatherings.

The restaurant serves beautifully prepared creative Japanese cuisine. Despite being located in Kabukicho, it maintains a clean and pleasant atmosphere.

Personally, many restaurants around Kabukicho can be hit or miss, but this one is definitely a hit. It’s not just a place for a casual meal with friends — it’s ideal for a proper date or a serious dining experience with someone special.

Recommended Dishes:

• Fresh Uni Cheese Fondue Hot Pot – A signature dish featured on several TV programs.
• Udon Sashimi – A smooth and silky texture, making it a popular menu item.

In addition to dinner, the restaurant also offers great-value lunch courses, making it a recommended spot regardless of the time of day.

Summary

That concludes our list of 10 delicious izakayas & bars in Nishi-Shinjuku. Did you find a place that caught your eye?

All of the featured spots are highly recommended, so be sure to check them out when you visit the Nishi-Shinjuku area!