INDEX
Whiskey as the Star, Featuring a Subdued Atmosphere
Located on the second floor of G1 Street in Golden Gai, Whiska is a whiskey bar stocked with single malts and old bottles. The owner, Seiji Toshima, spent many years collecting whiskey to prepare for opening a bar in Golden Gai. Once he felt ready, he patiently waited for an available space in Golden Gai before launching the current establishment in 2020.
Inside, there’s only a counter, and a row of whiskey bottles lines the front. While Golden Gai often evokes images of Showa-era charm or subculture vibes, Whiska offers a casual atmosphere with simple decor that doesn’t strongly reflect the typical Golden Gai aesthetic, making it feel approachable.
I’m not very knowledgeable about alcohol, so I can’t say much, but I’ve tried whiskies like Aran, Longrow, and Laphroaig here. When I express my preferences, they suggest options, saying things like, ‘How about this one? This whiskey is…,’ allowing me to order and enjoy something that suits my taste. If you’re not a fan of whiskey, their homemade ‘Setouchi Honey Lemon’ sour is also a great choice. By the way, although there’s no menu in the bar, there is a price list for Japanese whiskey displayed on the wall. This is due to the increasing requests from international customers for Japanese whiskey in recent years.
The bar provides a relaxed environment where jazz plays softly in the background, creating a soothing ambiance for enjoying whiskey. The volume is perfectly calibrated—not loud enough to interrupt conversations or detract from the whiskey’s flavors and aromas. In this setting, whiskey takes center stage, while jazz remains a subtle backdrop. Although requests for songs aren’t accepted, this carefully curated selection of music enhances Whiska’s unique appeal.
