Matsubaya Saryo / Hakobune Gallery

The finest experience for the Japanese teas and sake in Japan

By Matthew Eisenhauer • July 5, 2025

Pull up a stool to the umber-toned sugi (Japanese cedar) table, fingertips tracing its smooth groove. Lean in and inhale—the woodsy, balsamic scent confirms its origin. Above your personal goyoumat (Japanese white pine) bonsai, a flickering candle glows within an opaque glass lantern, casting gnarly root-like shadows on the charcoal-grey concrete walls of Matsubaya Saryo / Hakobune Gallery .

From a chakouro (traditional incense burner), warmed tea leaves release an earthy, roasted aroma. The menu offers only the finest Japanese teas and sake.

For a morning visit, try the matcha or sencha; for a cozy afternoon, the hojicha latte. Opt for the ¥1,500 seating charge per person to experience the tea ceremony counter in the back. Still craving more luxury? Take home their centerpiece—a stunning Juniper bonsai—for a cool ¥3 million (tax included).

Matsubaya Saryo / Hakobune Gallery

an exhibit of bonsai trees — Photo Credit: Matsubaya Saryo

Address: 5-4-27 Minamiaoyama, Minato-ku (6 min walk from Omotesando Station)
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10 am – 8 pm
Instagram: @matsubayasaryo
Official Website: mtbysr.jp
Reservations: tablecheck.com

This article was adapted from the 2025 Spring Issue of Metropolis: “Designing the City.” Check out the full article, Tokyo Architectural Gems You Can Eat and Drink In, for more recommendations.

Matthew Eisenhauer

Matt Eisenhauer (“eyes and hour”) has lived in Japan for over 20 years, sharing his love for Japanese food and culture through his blog. In 2015, he became co-owner of a restaurant in Aoyama, Tokyo, and has since been crafting Japan-inspired recipes to share what he learns. Matt is one of the most-read non-Japanese food bloggers, serving both the expat community in Japan and food lovers worldwide. Visit: https://www.eyesandhour.com/