Tabelog ratingBIER REISE 98 (BIER REISE ’98) is not just a bar; it's a pilgrimage site for beer enthusiasts in Tokyo. The main draw is the house specialty known as the 'Matsuo pour'. A famed draft master uses a 70-year-old ice-cooled server to draw Asahi 'Maruef' beer, creating a pour with an exceptionally smooth, creamy foam and mouthfeel that has become legendary among regulars and visitors alike.
Reviewers almost universally praise the quality of the beer, which goes beyond the Maruef to include black draft, Pilsner Urquell, and other guest taps. The canonical food pairing is the combination of a deep-fried menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet) and a 'Nada Koro' croquette, both served with a rich brown sauce that perfectly complements the beer. The atmosphere is that of a large, lively, old-style beer hall, with friendly staff who welcome international visitors. The lunch sets are also noted for their excellent value.
The venue's popularity means it's often noisy and very busy, making it better for lively groups than quiet dates. While the star dishes are celebrated, some guests found other items like fries to be mediocre. A few also noted that the quality of the beer pour could be inconsistent when handled by trainees rather than the master. Portions for some dishes were felt to be modest for the price.
Dinner typically costs between ¥3,000 and ¥3,999 per person. Reviewers recently paid around ¥520 for a 275ml glass of Maruef and ¥725 for a small menchi-katsu. A 410ml Pilsner Urquell was about ¥980. Lunch is a bargain, with sets costing around ¥900 to ¥1,100. For beer lovers, the quality and unique pouring ritual offer excellent value.
- Booking: Reservations are recommended for evenings as the hall fills up quickly. It's not essential, but advised. For the best view of the master at work, ask for a seat at the counter.
- Getting There: The bar is on the 1st floor of the Shinbashi Park Building, a 3-minute walk from Shinbashi Station or Uchisaiwaicho Station.
- Payment: Major credit cards (Visa, Master, AMEX, JCB, Diners) and transportation IC cards like Suica are accepted. QR code payments are not.
- Children: Children of all ages are welcome.
- Atmosphere: Expect a loud, bustling beer hall. A separate smoking space is available.
- Parking: No parking is available.