01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Climbing to the 3th floor of Shinbashi's Pioneer Building 2 leads into a calm, quiet bar world removed from the surrounding city bustle. Run by a female owner who welcomes guests at the door, Arete cultivates a warm, relaxed tone that puts first-time visitors at ease right away.
Over 60 whiskies line the back bar, covering smoky Scotches such as Bowmore 12 Year Old, Laphroaig 10 Year Old, and Talisker 10 Year Old, alongside bourbons including Old Grand-Dad 114, Woodford Reserve, and Basil Hayden. Japanese labels are well represented by bottles like Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hakushu 12 Year Old, and Miyagikyo. Consulting on flavor preferences and serving styles is very much part of the experience.
The cocktail list ranges from standards like the gin and tonic, gimlet, and salty dog to personalized pours mixed according to individual taste. Small bites are designed to complement the drinks, featuring dark house-made nama chocolate infused with whisky and rich house-made raisin butter studded with rum-soaked fruit.
Whether dropping in alone on a weekday evening to nurse a glass or meeting someone for quiet conversation, the bar functions as an easygoing hideaway in the heart of town.
