Parlor Sakae

Rather than scanning retail shelves and choosing by the label, you describe the kind of flavors you want to taste. Parlor Sakae in Ekoda is a specialized wine shop where the right bottle emerges through a conversation with the owner.

Lined with cardboard boxes like a small warehouse, the shop houses an extensive selection of natural wines from around the world. From labels out of Friuli, Italy, to bottles from Oceania and Yoichi in Hokkaido, characterful selections await in the back cellar. Even with casual guidelines such as "something to match this dinner" or "an everyday bottle around ¥2,000," the owner listens and brings out an ideal bottle from the collection.

Beyond buying bottles to take home, visitors can also drop in for a standing glass of wine in a casual kakuuchi style. Whether sipping Italian sparkling white or a beer in the afternoon, or trying a pour chosen on the spot by the owner, it is a comfortable, unpretentious setting to enjoy good drinks.

Payment can be made via PayPay. The shop is closed on Tuesdays, but when the shutter is up on other days, feel free to step inside and strike up a conversation.