Standing Bar Izakaya Kadokura: Izakaya Very Particular about Amazing Japanese Dishes
Ueno, known for the lush Ueno Park, its zoo, and famous art museums, offers visitors an immersive "Shitamachi" (downtown) experience, combining tradition with a retro charm. Many tourists explore Ueno alongside Asakusa, another area with an old-town atmosphere. Due to its proximity to central Tokyo and convenient Shinkansen access, Ueno is a great base for sightseeing.
One of Ueno’s gems is its vibrant bar scene beneath the railway tracks, which comes alive at night. The iconic "Ameya-Yokocho" (often called “Ameyoko”) street stands out as a top drinking area in Tokyo, attracting both visitors and locals alike with its variety—from well-known establishments to hidden gems only insiders know.
This article introduces Standing Bar Izakaya Kadokura, a lively stand-up izakaya in Ueno where you can enjoy exceptional Japanese cuisine and drinks.
Standing Bar Izakaya Kadokura: A Popular Ueno Spot for Casual Drinking
Standing Bar Izakaya Kadokura offers a laid-back stand-up bar experience, perfect for enjoying a drink without much fuss. Due to its approachable vibe, this place is always bustling with tourists and local office workers unwinding after work.
Kadokura is especially renowned in Ueno, with lines forming even before opening. Its old-school, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy drinks freely and comfortably.
At Kadokura, the combination of delicious dishes and drinks is remarkably affordable. With just 1,000 yen, you can enjoy one drink and two small dishes, making it a perfect spot for bar-hopping.
Basic Information
- Address: 6-13-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Hours: Sunday–Thursday 11:00–22:00 / Friday, Saturday, and Holiday Eves 11:00–23:00
- Closed: Open every day
- Phone: 03-3832-5335
- Website: https://taishoen.co.jp/kadokura/
- Instagram: tachinomi_kadokura
High-Quality Japanese Cuisine at a Standing Bar
Source:Tabelog
Despite being a standing bar, Kadokura offers an impressive variety of high-quality Japanese dishes. From quick snacks to more substantial meals, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes. One of the highlights is their ham katsu—a perfectly fried ham cutlet—prepared fresh to order along with other fried items.
The best part? Almost every dish costs under 500 yen, allowing you to enjoy top-notch food without breaking the bank. Whether you're sampling just a couple of bites or indulging in a full meal, Kadokura's delicious offerings are sure to keep your drinks flowing.
Perfect for Daytime Drinking and Bar-Hopping
Since Kadokura opens at 11:00 AM, it’s an ideal first stop for those looking to kick off a day of bar-hopping. Located near Ueno Station and right at the entrance of Ameyoko, it’s a convenient and lively spot to begin your exploration.
While it’s popular with locals, Kadokura also attracts tourists, thanks to its authentic vibe and affordable prices. Even during the day, the bar bustles with energy reminiscent of a nighttime izakaya. With plenty of other bars nearby that open early, Ueno is a great area for a daytime bar crawl. Be sure to explore Ueno’s vibrant bar-hopping scene during your visit!
Five Must-Try Dishes at Standing Bar Izakaya Kadokura
1. Kadokura’s Signature Ham Katsu
Source:Tabelog
The ham katsu at Kadokura is a must-order item. Typically, ham katsu consists of a single thick slice of ham coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. However, Kadokura’s version takes things to the next level by layering four thin slices of ham before frying. This creates a unique texture, earning it the nickname "mille-feuille ham katsu" due to the delicate, layered bite it offers.
A personal favorite is the Cheese Tokusei Katsu, where melted cheese oozes between the ham layers. The combination of the juicy ham and creamy cheese makes for an irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with a cold drink.
2. Hearty and Healthy Tonpei Yaki
Source:Tabelog
Tonpei yaki is a popular dish made by stir-frying pork and vegetables, then wrapping them in a fluffy egg omelet. It resembles an omelet in appearance and is usually topped with savory sauce and mayonnaise.
Kadokura’s tonpei yaki is generously packed with julienned cabbage, making it a healthier option without compromising flavor. The crunchy texture of the cabbage contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy egg, creating a delightful bite every time. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself coming back for.
3. A Local Favorite: Gyuu Suji Nikomi (Stewed Beef Tendons)
Source:Tabelog
Another must-try dish is the gyuu suji nikomi—a slow-simmered beef tendon stew that’s beloved by locals. At just 250 yen, this dish offers incredible value and is a personal favorite.
The beef tendons are simmered for hours until they become tender enough to melt in your mouth. The flavorful broth is richly infused into the meat, giving it a deep umami taste that pairs excellently with beer or shochu. It's a dish that enhances any drinking experience.
4. Juicy and Flavorful Beef Harami Skewers
Source:Tabelog
Kadokura’s reputation for serving fresh, high-quality meat is no surprise, given that it’s run by a butcher. One standout item is the beef harami skewers, grilled to perfection over charcoal.
Harami refers to the diaphragm muscle of the cow, known for being lean yet tender with just the right amount of chew. The skewers are flavorful and juicy, with the smokiness from the charcoal grill enhancing every bite. These skewers are a fantastic match for drinks, providing a savory complement to any alcohol.
5. Freshly Delivered from Tsukiji: Shimesaba (Marinated Mackerel)
Source:Tabelog
Shimesaba is a dish made by marinating fresh mackerel in vinegar, giving it a slightly tart, pickled flavor. This dish serves as a refreshing palate cleanser between other flavorful bites.
Kadokura’s shimesaba is known for its exceptional freshness, with no fishy odor and a light, clean taste. The thick slices provide a satisfying bite, and the dish pairs beautifully with umeshu (plum wine). The combination of the vinegary fish and the mellow sweetness of the umeshu creates a harmonious balance that is quintessentially Japanese.
Enjoy Exquisite Dishes with Ueno’s Popular Drink: Hoppy
Source: Official website
One drink you simply must try in Ueno is Hoppy. This beverage, made from malt and hops, has a taste reminiscent of beer but with only 0.8% alcohol. It’s lighter than beer, making it an easy drink to enjoy throughout the day. While it’s tasty on its own, the traditional way to enjoy it at izakayas is to mix it with shochu. Its mild flavor pairs well with any dish, making it a versatile choice.
Hoppy comes in two varieties: regular Hoppy and black Hoppy. Black Hoppy offers a rich, deep flavor similar to dark beer, which is why it’s one of my personal favorites. Depending on your mood, be sure to give Ueno’s specialty drink a try—you won’t regret it!
Two Other Izakayas to Explore Alongside Kadokura
Daitoryo: A Ueno Classic
Source:Tabelog
If you’re bar-hopping around Ueno, another iconic spot to visit is Motsu Yaki Daitoryo. Established in 1950, this legendary izakaya is known nationwide for its history and charm. Many patrons like to stop by Kadokura and Daitoryo during their night out for the full Ueno experience.
The retro shitamachi (old downtown) ambiance inside Daitoryo is vibrant, with an old-school warmth that invites interaction among guests. It’s easy to make new friends over drinks in this lively environment. Both food and drinks are affordable, but the star of the menu is the "motsu" (offal), particularly their signature dish, motsu nikomi (stewed offal). This flavorful dish is a must-try when you visit!
Daitoryo – Location and Basic Info
- Address: Tokyo-to Taito-ku Ueno 6-10-14
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Closed: Open daily
- Phone: 03-3832-5622
Jizakana Yatai Hamachan Ueno Branch
Source:Tabelog
In seafood-loving Japan, indulging in fresh fish is a must! One of the most popular seafood spots in Ueno’s Ameya-Yokocho is Jizakana Yatai Hamachan. From sashimi to tempuragrilled dishes, and sushi, this izakaya offers high-quality seafood at reasonable prices.
A crowd-favorite at Hamachan is the tempura. The dish is accompanied by a generous serving of grated daikon in the dipping sauce, which is a specialty of the shop. The combination of crispy fried tempura with the refreshing texture of the daikon makes it a perfect match for alcoholic beverages.
I highly recommend the tekkamaki (tuna roll). The tuna inside is thick and fresh, providing great texture and flavor. It’s also filling, making it an ideal dish to enjoy toward the end of your meal.
Hamachan Ueno – Location and Basic Info
- Address: Tokyo-to Taito-ku Ueno 6-9-13
- Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Closed: Year-end holidays
- Phone: 03-5807-8413
- Website: http://www.window-co.jp/shop/hamachan-ueno/
Explore Ueno’s Nightlife with the “All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour”
If you’re looking to explore Ueno’s izakaya scene, joining a bar-hopping tour is a fantastic option. The All-You-Can-Drink Bar Hopping Tour in Ueno takes you to popular, hidden izakayas known mostly to locals. The tour fee covers food and drinks at three different venues, so you can enjoy the experience worry-free.
At the first two stops, you can enjoy 45 minutes of unlimited drinks, perfect for those who love to sample various alcoholic beverages. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic nightlife, interact with locals, and explore places you might not discover on your own.
- Meeting Point: In front of the Ueno Station Hirokoji Exit sculpture
- Tour Area: Ueno
- Starting Times: 5:00 PM / 6:00 PM
For more information, click here
Pro Tip: Enjoy a Quick Drink at Kadokura Before the Tour
Kadokura becomes crowded with office workers after 5:00 PM, so I recommend visiting before 4:00 PM to secure a spot. After enjoying a quick drink and some delicious food at Kadokura, you’ll be ready to join the bar-hopping tour for a more immersive nightlife experience. Eating beforehand also helps you avoid getting too tipsy during the all-you-can-drink sessions!