Kitchen Solna: Ebisu
Kitchen Solna Cafe is a newcomer to the Ebisu scene (opened December 2003), but one - I predict - that will be a long-stayer (not least of all because it stays open till 5 am every night!).

To look at the master, Ogi-san, with his straggly hair and flares and rock 'n' roll chains, one would never imagine he was a pro. Yet, he was the manager of Cafe Life in Azabu Juban for 4 years and this, his first solo project, embodies all that he learned during that tenure. Like Cafe Life, Solna occupies two floors, with a bar on the first level (2nd floor) and a spacious lounge upstairs (3rd floor).

The bar is stylish in an understated way - with lots of chrome and black details - and it seats about ten, with additional stools lining the counters by the windows overlooking the street. Upstairs is huge by comparison, with about eight tables - some large, some small and some fronted by couches and armchairs. The music is different on each level, with more upbeat hip-hop and r'n'b downstairs and mellower club grooves upstairs.

But one of the best things about Solna is the food. Excellent salads and entrees - including a daily donburi dish - are available throughout the night (last order 4 am). And the bar features an extensive range of shochu, complemented by a select range of nihonshu. You will also find Ebisu beer on tap - a definite plus. You can even sample a nice bottle of port (Oxford Landing) or a top-shelf scotch (Glenfiddich). And all of these delivered by either Kazu, tha manager, or one of the slew of sweet little girls who work behind the bar.

by "Sister Chill"

Kitchen Solna

Minami-Ebisu 1-9-11, Futaba Bldg 2F
03-5773-9010

Open from 7 pm till 5 am every day.

10 percent service charge added to your bill after 10 pm. Draft beer (Ebisu) 650 yen, bottled beer (Sol from Mexico) 700 yen, shochu and nihonshu from 700 yen, mixed drinks 800 yen.

Closest station: Ebisu. Take the exit on the side of the subway and walk left around the bus and taxi stands. Turn right into the street to the left of Kinokuniya liquor store and look for Hotel Velfare the left. On the street behind is another hotel, to the right of which you will find Kitchen Solna Cafe.