Bar Rocking Chair

Cindylee0023★★★★★★★★★★5.02 months ago

I almost never write reviews, but during my stay in Kyoto, Bar Rocking Chair quickly became my daily go-to spot. Unlike the sleek, sophisticated bars in Ginza, or flashy, trendy places for young crowds, this is a warm, thoughtful bar where every detail feels cared for. It has a classic Japanese style but never feels stiff or formal—all the chairs are incredibly comfortable, and the fireplace in winter is so cozy, perfectly capturing Kyoto’s gentle atmosphere. Of course, the cocktails are excellent. I don’t know much about whiskey, but I noticed they have an extensive collection, including bottles from small, lesser-known distilleries. I hope to try more of them someday. Evenings in Kyoto can feel a bit quiet without a drink. As I sat alone, sipping one delicious cocktail after another, the night truly turned into the magical, whimsical world from 森见登美彦’s novels. It’s cherry blossom season now, so the bar is getting busy with many visitors. If you’re planning to visit in the evening, I highly recommend calling ahead to check about seating. 来年もきっと、桜は咲きます🌸また、そのときにお会いしましょう。

Giorgi Hanna★★★★★★★★★★5.0a year ago

A hidden gem in Kyoto! This cocktail bar is an absolute delight. The cocktails here are exceptional—beautifully crafted, balanced, and bursting with unique flavors. The bartenders are true artists who clearly put their heart into every drink, using both local ingredients and classic techniques. The ambiance is intimate and stylish, with a cozy, welcoming vibe that makes you feel like you’re in on a well-kept secret. Whether you’re looking to relax after a day of sightseeing or seeking an unforgettable night out, this place is a must-visit. Keep in mind that there is an entrance fee and the minimum consumption is one drink. Highly recommended!

Briana★★★★★★★★★★5.03 weeks ago

Let's be honest. If you're looking for a random place to have a drink without any thought, this isn't the place for you. If you arrive after a long walk in the Gion district, searching for a party place while under-dressed, this isn't the place for you. If you are a foreigner and do not understand the customs, class, and talent of the bartender, owner, and waitstaff who are attending to you, this isn't the place for you. And it certainly is not a place for children. However. If you are looking for world-class, award-winning cocktails, drinks, and service in one of the most beautiful, cultured places in the world, this is for you. Bar Rocking Chair was a highlight of our vacation. We came as a party of two without a reservation at the beginning of the night, around 1730h. I was told about this place by my companion -- and I'm glad we went together. The bar was quiet, moody, and often filled with cigarette smoke. We ordered two drinks each, excited to try the signature cocktails that were noted by the waiter. We spoke a mix of English and Japanese, but I get the sense that the waiter was comfortable with both. We sat directly next to the garden, and my companion sat in the signature rocking chair that the bar is known for. If you take it in, observe the silence, get accustomed to the flavors, it is a unique, all-sense encompassing experience unlike any other. In fact, when we were finished, the waiter brought over our hand-written check in a unique box which he presented on bent knee. Certainly one for the books. 5 stars.

David Goodrich★★★★★★★★★★5.0a year ago

Beautiful bar with excellent drinks and attentive staff. It is very popular and fills up quickly, so reservations are recommended. They will hold a spot for 30 min. If you are patient, kind and not rude, then you will have a good time (they will meet you with the same energy if you are rude). Don’t believe the bad reviews, we were let in after waiting for ~20 min and the staff was extremely attentive and we had drinks within a few minutes. They also noticed the second we were finished with our drinks and offered the next round. They take their jobs very seriously and the drinks are made with care.

Borys Turchyk★★★★★★★★★★5.06 months ago

Wonderful bar with a thoroughly impressive drinks wall, great cocktails, attentive service and quiet atmosphere. There's even a fireplace (probably gas-operated, but looked impressive nonetheless) if you're lucky - but the bar arrangement is great too. There's a decent number of food in form of warm and cold snacks, tasty and well made. They're heavy on rules there, but all rules are meaningful so it's reasonable.