A Beloved Shinjuku Spot Since 1951, Loved by Cultural Icons
Donzoko, a classic dining bar founded in 1951, sits quietly on Suehiro Street in Shinjuku. Just steps from Shinjuku Sanchome’s lively stretch, it’s tucked away in a quaint alley.
Step inside the ivy-covered brick building and you’re transported to the nostalgic Showa era. Beloved by cultural giants like Yukio Mishima and Akira Kurosawa, this venue is cherished for its history and distinct charm—offering a cozy ambiance no modern bar could replicate.
The menu features a wide array of Western-style dishes, including meats, seafood, salads, creative plates, and original Donzoko specials. Kitchen recommendations are highlighted with pictures, making ordering easy for all.
Popular items include low-temp roasted domestic beef (¥1,300), herb-scented chicken ham (¥650), and sautéed beef tongue with asparagus (¥1,500).
The marinated oysters (¥700) are refreshing yet rich—perfect as an appetizer or a palate refresher.
The cheese omelet (¥850) is a favorite among female guests, with melty cheese generously packed from edge to edge.
The star menu item is the medium-sized mix cheese pizza (¥1,300 for 2–3 people), layered with sweet mushrooms, onions, and generous cheese. Another favorite is the uniquely named “Mr. Hayashi’s Rice” (¥950), a longtime staple.
The flavor blend of mushroom sweetness and gooey cheese makes this pizza a standout.
You can also enjoy Mr. Hayashi’s Rice without the rice. Featuring beef and vegetables seasoned with oyster sauce, this dish is simple yet deeply flavorful.
Why the name “Mr. Hayashi”? According to the staff, the dish was originally requested by the manager of actor and voice actor Hozei Komatsu, a former Ministry of Finance official who often ate it at home. It became a menu staple over time.
Each floor has bartenders who mix cocktails tailored to your taste. Beers and wines start at just ¥600 per glass.
Recommended Original Cocktail (Donkaku)
A house favorite since the restaurant’s founding. Priced at ¥700.
Also available: sherry, sake, plum wine, sparkling wine, and homemade sangria. Wine bottles start at ¥3,000.
(YOKOSO Shinjuku Editorial Team)
Basic Information
| Store Name | Donzoko |
| Address | 3-10-2 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo |
| TEL | 03-3354-77499 |
| Business Hours | 17:00–24:30 (Last food order 23:30, last drink order 24:00) |
| Closed | Open Daily |
| Access | 2-min walk from Exit B2 of Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Marunouchi & Fukutoshin Lines) 2-min walk from Exit C5 (Toei Shinjuku Line) |
*Note: Menu items, prices, business hours, and holidays are subject to change. Please check with the venue for the most up-to-date details.
