Choi Standing Bar

Diners who ordered the Gorgonzola baguette gratin enjoyed the richness of the cheese against butter-soaked baguette, with a glass of white wine. The dish is listed at ¥1,200. It works well for a leisurely glass of wine, or as a bite alongside a drink at the start of the evening. The wine list includes red and white house wines and a wine of the day by the glass, as well as a tasting set of 3 glasses, with sparkling, white and red wines chosen to suit your taste. It offers a way to try different pairings as you go. The menu ranges from light bites to more substantial dishes, including Margherita pizza, chicken and spring onion pizza with white miso, and Napolitan-style pasta.

There is more to drink than wine: options include draft beer, sake, whisky and cocktails. The smoked platter of 3 varieties combines mackerel, duck and cod roe; other choices include prosciutto with salami and chicken liver pâté. The menu makes it easy to keep things light with drinks and small plates, or add pizza and pasta for a fuller meal. For dessert, consider the house-made tiramisu, a sweet finish after your meal.

Alongside its standing area, the bar has seats and private rooms. Choi Standing Bar in Asakusabashi offers options for a solo meal or a get-together where a private room suits the group.