Tabelog ratingIn a narrow alley in Ginza lies Banana Juice, a tiny takeout-only stand with a singular focus: crafting the perfect banana smoothie. Unlike watery juices, these are thick, satisfying drinks made to order, famously blended with two whole bananas per cup and no ice, resulting in a pure, intense fruit flavour. Customers can personalize their drink from a wide menu of bases—including milk, soy, oat, and yogurt—and add toppings like black sesame with kinako or rum-raisin.
Reviewers consistently praise the dense, dessert-like texture and the pure banana taste. The large size is noted as being particularly filling and satisfying. Despite its prime location, the shop is celebrated for its affordability, with many calling it outstanding value for Ginza. The main drawback is its popularity, which leads to frequent and sometimes long queues, often stretching for 10 to 40 minutes or more. The shop can also sell out or close early if the bananas for the day are not perfectly ripe.
Prices are very reasonable for the quality and portion size. Reviewers recently paid around ¥560 for a large soy milk smoothie with black sesame and kinako, and ¥520 for a large yogurt-based one. A medium milk-based smoothie can be as little as ¥330, making it a filling snack that feels like a meal for the price.
- Getting There: Banana Juice is a short walk from Higashi Ginza Station. It's a small counter in an alley; look for the queue. To avoid disturbing neighbouring businesses, please wait inside the designated area marked by yellow poles.
- Booking: Walk-in only. Reservations are not accepted.
- Payment: Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX), electronic money (transportation IC cards like Suica, iD, QUICPay), and QR code payments are accepted.
- Hours: The shop may close early if they sell out. It's wise to check their social media accounts before visiting for the day's status.
- Seating: Takeout only.
