DestinAsian – Amazon, despite being the world’s largest Internet-based retailer, is no stranger to good ‘old brick-and-mortar.
Following a series of physical book stores and pop-ups of late, it will be unveiling a full-fledged bar in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district from October 20 to 29.
The official announcement for the bar. All images courtesy of Amazon.
This move is in line with the retail giant’s expansion into the alcohol business. In August, they expanded their one-hour wine delivery service in select US cities; and last year, launched a wine recommendation service in Japan, featuring in-house sommeliers.
For 10 days in October, Amazon Bar in Tokyo will offer a stylish space where customers can pick out the perfect wine, beer or sake (US$4.50 to US$13.50) to suit their taste buds.
An artist’s rendering of the bar’s interior
To keep things exciting, the bar won’t have a menu. Instead, customers answer a set of questions regarding their preferences and cravings via a tablet, thereafter receiving a list of beverage recommendations.
Unsatisfied with the virtual recommendations? Speak to an on-site wine expert, who’ll be more than happy to help you pick out a vintage to please your palate.
Customers can also complete their drinking experience with bar bites, made with ingredients sourced through Amazon’s AmazonFresh grocery delivery service. A must-try is the special Red Wine Pocky pretzel sticks, which Amazon will begin selling later this month.
Tokyo-to, Chuo-ku, Ginza 7-3-5, Hulic Ginza 7-chome Building,1st floor.
