Germany moves to Tokyo
A venue where we can meet old friends and make new ones has always
been an important part of the social scene. During Hemingway’s
stint in Paris, it was a certain café on the Champs Elysees, where
you would run into any acquaintance — famous or otherwise — with
a little bit of luck. More recently, and closer to home, the same
could be said for Hong Kong’s Peninsula Hotel. Here in Tokyo,
it’s Bernd’s Bar in Roppongi.
Bernd’s is much more than just a bar. It is, in fact, a German
Kneipe, the Continental equivalent to a British pub. A typical
Kneipe serves as the favorite corner hangout. It is here where
you discuss the latest football gossip, predict the winner of
the next Formula I race, or give your take on how to run the nation.
In short, much talking and interaction, which tends to make people
hungry and thirsty. So a good Kneipe should have a good kitchen
and a wide selection of beers.
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The owner of a Kneipe is host, news center, bartender and best
friend all in one. This tradition lives on in Tokyo with Bernd,
who will greet you by name, knows the ins and outs of your professional
life, and introduces you to all his friends and customers. |
On a good night Bernd’s will be packed with around 70 people all
talking in a dozen German dialects. The walls are lined with autographed
soccer jerseys and photos left as mementos. One photo shows Bernd
with ex-Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, while others show him with
celebrities and luminaries from the entertainment and business
world. At any given time the place is abuzz with the who’s who
of the German community. Latest rumors have it, that the president
of a top car maker has set up office at Bernd’s, and so have other
business leaders.
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Regulars like these enjoy the fine German cuisine and real German
draft beer right next to ordinary customers.
Bernd’s not only serves several types of German draft beer, but
also “real” German food like home-made sour beef, Bavarian sausage
plates, various types of schnitzel. Many dishes are served with
pasta done with a distinctly German flavor. |
Bernd’s is closed on Sundays, but if a Formula I race is on,
you can enjoy it live on two TV screens - and the kitchen will
be open too. German pretzels are strategically placed throughout.
tj
- Pure Roppongi 2F
5-18-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku
Open: Mon to Sat, 5pm-2am
Closed: Sundays and national holidays
- kitchen: Last order 11pm
Tel: 5563-9232 |
