Abi-An

Sakadokoro Abi-An is a cozy izakaya nestled in Akarui Hanazono 8th Street within Shinjuku Golden Gai. The shop is run by 'Mama Eiko,' celebrated for her home-style cooking, and visitors consistently praise both her warm hospitality and her delicious food. While many Golden Gai bars offer only dried snacks, Abi-An stands out by serving proper homemade dishes such as simmered nimono, making it a popular first stop before a night of bar-hopping. The bar is also deeply rooted in the local community — it has long served as the check-in point for the monthly 'Shinjuku Golden Gai Children's Cafeteria,' held every first Sunday. A Mixi community called 'E chito Abi-An,' whose members first met by chance at this very bar and have stayed connected for over a decade, speaks to the shop's gift for bringing people together. The bar opens Thursday through Saturday, welcoming guests from early evening into the night.