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| Office: Gaienmae | |||
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When the bar Office first opened and became popular, about a year ago, I was resistant to the place. I mean I worked in an office, so who wanted to go to a bar that was themed like one?
After continually hearing about the spot (as well as freeing myself from office servitude) I finally checked out this funky and fun little perch. Office, located in Gaienmae on the corner of Rugby-dori and Aoyama-dori, is blessed with a superb view of both, amplified by expansive wrap-around windows that make up about two-thirds of the club's wall space. Rather than the vibe of the place's name, it's more like Kindergarten, but less structured. From the crayon drawings in the menu to the cubbyhole bookcases, children's desks, clapboard filing cabinets that double as stools and papier mache hanging from the ceiling, everything screams "drop your adult inhibitions." Add to this mischievous, childlike vibe an artsy edge that sets up four closed-circuit cameras inside the venue (check out the monitors between the door and bar area) and changes exclusive exhibitions every two weeks, and you've got quite an enjoyable little space. The place always seems rocking with twenty-somethings relaxing over a Brooklyn Lager (a recommended beer) or a liqueur. They have a food menu as well - pastas, sandwiches and the like, light but tasty. If you get really hungry or bored there's a restaurant and cafe in the same building, called Caminetto and Sign, respectively. The music at Office ranges from lounge and downtempo to reggae, jazz and soul. The night we were there covers of Rolling Stones songs from every conceivable genre (save rock) serenaded us. Proprietor Mamie says Office searches out interesting up-and-coming artists with a lighthearted side and exhibits them for two weeks. Thus every other Sunday you can hit an opening bash at Office as well. In all, this space is a relaxing hang. In fact, the only thing that really seems to be related to the name of the place is the copy machine, which you can use for 10 yen. Perhaps these people will follow this bar with a place called Combini (convenience store). by Rob Schwartz |
Office
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