How Jesse, co-owner of Sen restaurant in Sag Harbor, does Tokyo:
After exploring Omoide Yokocho, walk 10 minutes to Golden Gai. Golden Gai is another row of tiny bars and restaurants, each with its own character. One of the best is Shampoo - I call it a mini bar.
A tiny, four-seat bar with one small booth for four more people, Shampoo feels like a secret. And behind the bar? A longtime New York City bartender who moved back to Japan. One of the coolest, most beautiful guys you’ll ever meet.
Always dressed in a kimono, half his head shaved, the other half flowing down to his waist, he is shaking up some of the most amazing cocktails like the epitome of cool.
He’s also a sake sommelier, so let him guide you. The knowledge that he brings to your experience is fantastic.
Just don't order a vodka soda.
Japan, 〒160-0021 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Kabukichō, 1-chōme−1−7 あかるい花園 3番街
This card is by Jesse Matsuoka, a Hamptons resident of over 25 years. Jesse is a sake sommelier, Tip Top Hospitality partner, and co-owner of Sen, a legendary Japanese restaurant in Sag Harbor. Jesse was born in Manhattan, grew up in Tokyo, Hawaii, and Sag Harbor, and is now married to a third-generation Montauker.
Photo by F X on Unsplash