A friend and I first visited this wonderful old bar in 2019. Even then it was clear the area was changing. There were numerous gaps where old businesses once stood, and other plots already boasted brand new apartment buildings.
We went back again towards the end of 2023, and the little establishment was one of the last original structures remaining. Also, with its neighbours no more, the nearby train station was clearly visible. A thoroughly apt view, as its close proximity is what presumably made the land so sought after.
The end then was sadly imminent. Merely a matter of time before the demolition notice was delivered, calling last orders on 52 years of its lovely proprietors serving up drinks, food and good humour.
Except for once it wasn’t.
The bar was indeed pulled down not long after, but the owners carefully saved the counter, along with most of what made the interior so distinctive. All of which they moved into a slightly newer building not that far away, making for a reassuring and very rare case of renewal. A new spot that once we sat down felt just like the old one. Like a home from home.
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Denise says
Oh my they are just delightful! 🙂 Thank you so much for these.
Lee says
You are very welcome. And yeah, they really are lovely. They create such a relaxed atmosphere.
YesterdaysHero says
You have excelled yourself here, Lee. A story of pride and dedication beautifully told. Their smiles say it all.
Lee says
Thank you very much. And yeah, they really do. A genuine privilege to be able to tell this story.
cdilla says
What a wonderful story your photographs and words tell. The last photograph is the alternate happy ending you wish for made real.
Lee says
Thank you very much. I know eh? Such a rarity too, which makes it all the sweeter.
Monie says
Location? In Tokyo now and would like to visit
Richard says
Heartwarming to see at least one business find a way to adapt and survive!
Lee says
Yes, it really is. A rare one too which made it all the nicer. It was lovely to walk in the new place and have it feel so much like the old one.
Linda says
Thanks, I really needed that, and I’m sure I’m not the only one
Lee says
You are very welcome. This one was a real pleasure to be able to document and tell.