THE HOLE IN THE WALL

A British Pub This Authentic in Tokyo is a Hole in the Wall!
[published August 2024]

The Hole in the Wall fits its name rather well, nestled in an alleyway off Kitaginza-dori street in Nishi-Ogikubo. It’s located a five-minute walk from the north exit of Nishi-Ogikubo Station, and has neighbourhood-English pub vibes in a stylish yet cosy setting. The welcoming entrance is adorned with flowerpots and when you step inside, the bar counter with high stools lined up and repurposed beer barrel tables come into sight, and you immediately feel at home. The pub opens at 5:30pm on weekdays and also opens for lunch on weekends and public holidays. Their drink menu includes draft Guinness, Scottish ale and British cider, bottles of beer, whisky and wine etc. For the food menu, they offer a variety of English gastropub classics such as various pies, Cornish pasties, Shepherd’s pies, bangers & mash and Bakewell tart. There are 10 types of pies including beef & Guinness pies and venison pies served with mashed potatoes and other vegetables depending on the availability of items. These offerings are hearty, scrumptious and satisfying. They are loved by not only the locals but also overseas nationals from downtown Tokyo who are craving the flavours from home. Some of the items are suitable for vegetarians.

The husband and wife team, David and Maki Carmichael opened this pub in March 2019, following David’s retirement from his previous profession. Maki, with extensive experience in managing bars, is in charge of selecting beverages and cooking all the English pub favourites such as pies and cakes. Having lived in Suginami Ward for over 30 years and been familiar with the area, they found this property in Nishi-Ogikubo which can accommodate more than 30 people. The couple decorated the interior of the pub to provide a relaxing ambience with wooden tables, a fireplace and old monochrome photographs on the walls. You can soak up authentic English pub atmosphere day and night. You can sit at the bar and chat to the hosts or read at a quiet table with a pint or two. Or gather as a group and share various pies, cakes and drinks!

ACCESS

translators: Minako and Ian Jackson
photographer: TFF staff