The Local List: TAP&GROWLER 下北沢
When I travel, one of my favorite things to do is check out local craft beer spots. Tokyo has one of the most interesting beer scenes in Japan, and Shimokitazawa is a great neighborhood to explore if you are into vintage shopping and craft beer. Among the area’s craft beer bars, TAP&GROWLER 下北沢 (TAP&GROWLER Shimokitazawa) stands out for its mission. Opened in March 2018, the shop focuses on introducing Japanese craft beers to both locals and visitors and even offers a growler system which is very rare in Japan.
Why TAP&GROWLER is Worth a Visit
For craft beer lovers TAP&GROWLER offers a cozy, welcoming space just a short 3-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station. They have 18 taps of Japanese craft beer (six are usually stouts or dark beers) plus a rotating selection of over 60 bottles and cans. The taps focus exclusively on domestic breweries, especially microbreweries and unique brews, while the bottles and cans tend to be more international.
What I love most is that while the staff takes beer very seriously, there’s definitely a sense of fun as well. From the Wonderland-inspired coasters to a friendly and knowledgeable team, the shop balances quality with personality. It is the kind of place that makes you want to stay for a while and maybe also grab a few photos as well as a beer (or three).
The Growler System
Growlers are still rare in Japan, but TAP&GROWLER makes it easy to take beer home. Growler filling machines allow you to take any of the tap beer home and keep it fresh for a couple days. That means that if you are hosting people or just want to enjoy fresh beer at home or your hotel, you can. You can purchase one of their glass growlers or bring your own. Purchasing their growler ensures that the bottleneck and size fits their growler machine, and once you purchase it, you can bring it to fill each time you visit. Growler filling machines like the ones at TAP&GROWLER limit foam, control oxygen exposure, and preserve carbonation and flavor for beer that keeps the beer fresh longer.
Even if your growler doesn’t fit the growler filling machine, the staff can still fill it from the regular taps as long as the container is pressure resistant. Filling from the tap will still allow you to take the beer home or to another location. However, using the growler filling machines allows you to have fresher beer. The growlers are a great option if you live in Japan, want to bring beers to a party, or want to enjoy some beer back at your hotel.
Helpful and English-Friendly Staff
If you are new to Japanese craft beer or feeling overwhelmed by the selection, the staff will guide you. They know their breweries and beer styles well. Their levels of English might vary, but no one will be denied service because of a lack of Japanese skill. Even if English is limited, they’ve been trained to make sure international customers feel comfortable and can get what they need. They have no problems using translation apps or showing extra information in English if there is a language barrier. However, some staff speak English too. It really depends on who is working when you visit.
What to Expect When You Visit
The space is a little dark and seating is limited which I think adds to the cozy atmosphere. There’s no seating charge, and you’ll find small snacks and a few nonalcoholic options for purchase along with the beer list. Wi-Fi is available, and children (even in strollers) and pets are welcome. Smoking isn’t allowed inside, but there’s a designated smoking area just outside the shop. There’s also a small space where you could sit outside to enjoy a beer as well.
Final Thoughts
The Japanese craft beer market is growing fast but not every bar highlights local breweries. Many lean heavily on imports and very few offer growler filling services. That’s what makes TAP&GROWLER special. It’s one of the best places in Tokyo to experience many Japanese craft beers in one stop. My biggest problem is always just choosing a beer because they have so many and in a variety of styles as well.
If you are planning a trip to Shimokitazawa for vintage shopping or café hopping, make sure to include a visit to TAP&GROWLER. Try a few beers and maybe even fill up a growler. Either way grab a few cans to go to enjoy later. Make sure you add this stop to your Tokyo itinerary, and if you are a resident, check out the options they have too!
TAP&GROWLER Shimokitazawa
3-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station (Central Exit)
Iijima Bldg. 1F
Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 15:00-24:00 most days (closed only on New Year’s; check Instagram for updates).
Payment: Cash and cashless options accepted.
https://www.craftbeers.tokyo/tap-growler-shimokitazawa
**Disclaimer: This article is a paid collaboration with TAP&GROWLER 下北沢. However, all opinions are my own and reflect my personal perspective.
