In recent years, Japanese bars have been popping up all over the city and with them came the introduction of different bartending techniques, ingredients, and flavors. Here’s a list of bicultural establishments perfect for trying something new.

1. Katana Kitten

This new arrival is a little over the top in the best ways but despite looking like a permanent dance floor, Katana Kitten has some serious drinks on the menu. Try the Toki Highball with Suntory’s Toki blended whisky, lemon oil, and koume plum or the Calpico Swizzle made with gin, Nigori sake, Calpico, tingly sansho pepper, Champagne, and blue curaçao.

A post shared by KATANA KITTEN (@katanakitten_nyc) on Aug 3, 2018 at 9:56am PDT

2. Tokyo Record Bar

This tiny hole in the wall is dedicated to Japanese cuisine and vinyl. Make reservations for their late-night listening sessions and sit back with a selection from their color coded list of sakes or a cocktail.

A post shared by Tokyo Record Bar (@tokyorecordbar) on Apr 20, 2018 at 3:17pm PDT

3. The Hidden Pearl

Tucked in behind a ramen shop, the Hidden Pearl is small, transportive, space that offers stylish cocktails and recognizably Japanese dishes. The menu trays from traditional cooking but stays inspired through the use of Asian ingredients. Their selection of Highballs includes the Cloud Bustin (Gin, Yuzushu, Lime, Tonic) and JBS (Gin, Pear Brandy, Dry Vermouth, Ginger, Shiso, Lemon, Seltzer).

A post shared by The Hidden Pearl (@hiddenpearlbk) on Jul 14, 2018 at 11:48am PDT

4. Bar Moga

Bar Moga is a serene space with gilded ceilings offering exotic cocktails and Yoshoku bar food. On Wednesdays, when expert Kayoko “Coco” Seo does tastings of a different Japanese spirit each month. This month, they’re featuring a whiskey duo made by Ashaki, Japan’s smallest whiskey distillery.

A post shared by Bar Moga (@barmoga) on Jul 12, 2018 at 2:31pm PDT

5. Sake Bar Satsko

Established in 2004, Satsko is an East Village staple. It’s an unpretentious izakaya-style joint known for it’s sake cocktails, soju & Japanese small plates.

A post shared by Sake Bar Satsko (@sakebarsatsko) on Jun 6, 2018 at 3:46pm PDT

6. Straylight

More than a bar, Straylight is a conceptual experience. The owners and designers aimed at making the basement space feel like a “strange wellness spa” and for the most bar, they succeeded. For $60, you could get the Cocktail Omakase, a two hour drinking experience during which you will be served five drinks (bartender’s choice) ranging from simple mixes with over the top garnishes to complex concoctions.