The rich tones of music played from vinyl combine with fresh sea air and the sound of lapping water at this waterfront music bar. Pier 21, located on the second floor of Pukari Sanbashi Bridge in Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district, repurposes a tower and dome-roofed building that for many years was home to a floating restaurant also named Pier 21. Now renovated, and with a DJ booth installed along with ample neon wall art, the premises has been reborn as a venue that aims to embody ‘new retro’.
The 54-seat space (including an eight-seat private room) is bordered by water on three sides, and offers great views out to the landmark Yokohama Bay Bridge. Through the day, Pier 21 maintains an old-school vibe by operating as a Showa era-style retro café and bar that plays an eclectic selection of music, encompassing Latin, classical, Western rock and more, alongside its staple sound of retro J-pop. By night the music takes on a more modern slant. Each Friday and Saturday sees DJs playing sets from 7pm.
Food-wise, the retro-style daytime café menu features omurice, Napolitan spaghetti, French toast, cream sodas, and more. In the evening, recommended tipples include fruit fizz, locally brewed craft beers, and a lychee-tinged ‘botanical’ G&T made with organic gin.