For Jess' last night in Tokyo we went to a fantastic izakaya in Shubya called Bistro 35 Steps.
It's a big open plan place and even on a Sunday night, was crowded and happening. The staff were incredibly friendly and spoke a little English.
The food was fantastic and very reasonably priced. Particular standouts included tuna tartare with avocado, mackerel seared at the table and a homemade tofu cheese which sounds odd but was like a beautiful light ricotta and served with toasted slices of baguette. The schochu (Japanese vodka) with various juices) was also great. For dessert, we all had creme brulee which was scorched at the table with a blowtorch.
This place is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a reasonably priced, friendly, tasty izakaya.
Finding it
Bistro 35 is not far from the Shibuya Station (I think we used the central exit) - just walk up beyond the five way intersection with Shibuya 109 (crazy young women's fashions) on your left. When you get to the street where Bunkamura is, turn left. When you see the Shibya City Hotel sign on your left, turn left again - the bistro will be down some stairs on your right - look for some dark wooden slats and a downward staircase. Reservations are recommended although we did not have one and managed to snare a table - tel: 3770-9835.
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