Brewpub Libushi Bashamichi occupies the first floor of one of the historical neighborhoods’s renovated, brick buildings. In contrast to the facade, the bright, airy interior is one of modern elegance. Activity in the shiny new brewing area is visible through the glass behind the long bar.
Libushi is an extension of Anglo Japanese Brewing (AJB), which was founded in 2014 in Nozawa Onsen, Nagano by Tom and Emiko Livesey. The name Libushi is simply a katakana reading of their family name. AJB brews a wide range of styles, as reflected in the variety pouring from Libushi’s 15 taps (½ pint ¥650~, pint ¥1200~). The brewery is especially adept at producing barrel-aged and sour beers. Fans of the latter should try the Farmhouse Blend. In addition to beer, in the near future Libushi will be distilling craft spirits in the space as well. One of the taps is currently dedicated to lemon sour or a gin mix.
The cuisine served is several levels above standard bar fare both in quality and presentation. On the revolving menu you’ll find things like scallop ceviche, confit duck, and terrine. After a Wild Boar Scotch egg (¥1100) to snack on with a pint, I filled up on the delectable Okinawa Fried Halloumi, Jalapeno Labneh, Lentil Salad (¥1500).
Libushi Bashamichi is suitable for a range of patrons. Single customers can enjoy a book and a beer sitting at one of the many window seats or strike up a conversation standing at the bar. The room adjacent to the bar, complete with a massive wooden table, is suitable for a sizable group of 15 or so.