Bar Hitari

Settling in at a bar counter with a drink in hand and a warm plate of oden makes for a distinct kind of night out. Located in the basement of a building in Yoyogi 1-chome, Bar Hitari centers its food around an oden broth recipe inherited from the owner's grandparents, who once featured it at their own izakaya. Simmered until thoroughly infused with dashi, the selection includes classics like daikon radish, egg, dense chikuwabu wheat dumplings, and mochi-stuffed tofu pouches, available à la carte or as a 5-piece assorted platter.

Once drinks and appetizers have run their course, a bowl of udon prepared with that same savory oden broth serves as a comforting late-night finish. Chazuke rice soup provides a lighter alternative for midnight cravings. To pair with the food, the bar serves accessible cocktails like gin and tonics, Moscow mules, and Bulldogs, alongside beer, wine, and neat spirits.

Seating inside includes an easy counter for solo visitors as well as booth seating suited to small groups. Karaoke equipment is on hand, and doors stay open daily from 21:00 until 5:00 the following morning. It functions just as smoothly for quiet conversation with the bartender over a nightcap as it does for livelier late gatherings with friends.