Hoppy Street, Asakusa: open-air izakaya and beef stew
Hoppy Street is a short lane of old-school izakaya with outdoor tables, a few minutes west of Senso-ji. Order nikomi (beef-tendon stew) and a Hoppy — a beer-flavored drink mixed with shochu. It is liveliest from the afternoon into the evening.
Quick facts
- Where
- West of Senso-ji, near Hanayashiki
- Cost
- Cheap-to-mid izakaya prices
- Time needed
- 1 hour for a drink and stew
What is Hoppy Street?
A lane of about 80 metres just west of Senso-ji, lined with old-fashioned izakaya that put tables out on the street. It is sometimes called “Stew Street”, because nearly every place serves nikomi, a slow-cooked stew usually made with beef tendon.
What should you order?
- Nikomi — the beef-tendon stew the lane is known for, each shop with its own recipe.
- Hoppy — a low-alcohol, beer-flavored drink you mix with shochu yourself. The street is named after it.
- Yakitori and other izakaya plates to share.
Honestly: I walk through Hoppy Street often, but I haven’t sat down and drunk here myself. So take the ordering tips above as research, not as my personal verdict. The atmosphere, though, is real — red lanterns, chatter spilling into the street, and a very local feel even with tourists around.
When is it busy?
It gets going from the afternoon and is busiest in the evening and on weekends. Outdoor seats go first in good weather.
Tips
- Many places have menus with pictures; prices are usually posted.
- A seating charge (otoshi, a small appetizer) is common at izakaya in Japan.
- Bring cash in case a small place doesn’t take cards.
Nearby
Senso-ji and Asakusa Shrine are a few minutes east; Kappabashi is a 10-minute walk west. Full overview: Asakusa travel guide.
