Tabelog ratingLaguna the Bar (ラグナ ザ バー) is as much an architectural statement as it is a cocktail destination. Housed in a building designed by the celebrated architect Tadao Ando, the main room is a cavern of smooth concrete, dominated by a high dome ceiling and a nearly 20-metre-long arched counter. The atmosphere is one of quiet reverence for craft and design.
The house speciality is seasonal fruit cocktails. Guests consistently praise the drinks made with fresh muscat grape, raspberry, kiwi, and mango. The bartenders' craftsmanship is a key part of the show, with large blocks of ice hand-cut for each drink. The bar also offers a wide selection of whiskies. Most visits conclude with a complimentary cup of warm ume-kombu tea (plum and kelp tea), a gesture many find memorable.
However, the service can be divisive. Several reviewers report curt or snobbish staff, and a few found classic cocktails like the Sazerac or Old Fashioned to be imbalanced. Occasional service errors and the presence of disruptive customers were also noted. A small number of international visitors mentioned difficulties with billing, so it's wise to be clear if you require an itemised receipt.
A typical spend is ¥3,000–¥3,999. Reviewers in 2024–2026 reported paying around ¥5,800 for three cocktails or ¥6,300 for two. Individual cocktails are typically ¥1,200–¥1,800, plus a cover charge of ¥1,000 per person. This charge includes a generous plate of snacks (like dried fruits, nuts, and cheese) and the closing tea, which most guests feel offers good value for the unique setting and quality of the fruit cocktails.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted; walk-ins only. The bar can get busy after 8:00 PM, so you may wish to call ahead to check for seats.
- Getting There: It is an 8-minute walk from Sannomiya Station, which serves JR, Hankyu, Hanshin, and subway lines.
- Menu: There is no printed menu. Simply tell the bartender what kind of flavours and strength you prefer (e.g., fruit-forward, dry, strong).
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners) are accepted. Electronic money and QR code payments are not.
- Seating: There are 15 seats at the counter.
- Smoking: Smoking is permitted inside the venue.
- Photography: Taking photos is generally discouraged. Please ask for permission first.
- Service Charge: A ¥1,000 cover charge per person applies, which includes snacks and a final cup of tea.
