Nestled inconspicuously under the Nambu Line tracks is a cozy and friendly bar for lovers of craft beer and oysters, especially those on a tight budget. Cheerful manager Saya Takagi welcomes regular customers and first-timers with a warm smile. The tiny interior fills up quickly: the counter seats only two! The 7:10 ratio of beer taps to seats is impressive, as is the broad range of styles, from sour to IPA. Takagi’s goal is balance, and taps rotate through thirty domestic craft outlets. One tap is always reserved for local Mizonokuchi Brewery (Nokuchi Beers). On a recent visit, Pilsner Urenkel from Hop Kotan in Furano and Madame Butterfly from Tokyo’s YYG were particularly tasty. Half-pints start at ¥700 and peak below four digits, while full pints begin at ¥1200. Wine, whiskey, and cocktails are available as well, or you can drink Sapporo Black Label for ¥420–590.
The prime attraction of Mugihigeya (“Barley-Beard”) is its selection of delicious raw oysters, at prices far below most Kantō-area restaurants. Juicy Oshamappu oysters from the Akkeshi region of far eastern Hokkaidō start at ¥390 for one, but ten of them cost only ¥2180. Similar bargains abound for Hyōgo oysters, with those from Ishinomaki (Miyagi) and Ōfunato (Iwate) a bit higher at ¥540 apiece. Hot and cold appetizers are available, averaging ¥440, but the portions are generous enough to constitute a full meal. Fish and chips go for the top price of ¥860.
Mugihigeya has just turned one year old. Come and join the anniversary!