Duke of Tokyo | 8.5

Discovering cocktailbars in Rotterdam, Duke of Tokyo

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting Duke of Tokyo, a bar that recently launched an exciting concept called Wknd’s. This innovative idea brings in a DJ from Rotterdam every Friday and Saturday, creating an electrifying atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.

As soon as you step into Duke of Tokyo, the ambiance transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Tokyo. The bar area is visually stunning, filled with eclectic decor that captures the essence of the city. You’ll find yourself captivated by the many details around you, from the artwork on the walls to the carefully arranged seating. Plus, if you’re curious about the food, you can sneak a peek into the restaurant area from the bar, tantalizing your senses even before you dive into the menu.

The combination of a talented DJ spinning tracks throughout the night and the vibrant atmosphere creates an unforgettable evening. But let’s talk about the food, as that’s where I was pleasantly surprised.

Given that Duke of Tokyo is also a karaoke bar, I didn’t have high expectations for the snacks. However, I was blown away by how fresh and flavorful everything tasted. The dishes were simple yet made with quality ingredients, which truly elevated the dining experience. We sampled the pork belly, which was deliciously tender and rich, and the beef tataki, which quickly became one of our favorite dishes of the night. The flavors were beautifully balanced, and each bite was a delight.

We also tried the salmon tataki, Korean fried chicken, and fries with furikake. Each dish impressed us with its quality and taste, showcasing the bar’s commitment to serving delicious food alongside its cocktails.

Now, let’s move on to the drinks. Finding a cocktail bar in the Netherlands that checks all the boxes can be challenging—some serve unbalanced cocktails, others charge exorbitant prices (€20 + for classic cocktails), and some simply lack the right atmosphere. Duke of Tokyo, however, hits all the marks!

The cocktail menu was fun and inventive, with prices that felt fair for the quality offered. We kicked things off with a SHOKUNIN Old Fashioned, which was a unique twist made with beef stock and presented in a Kikkoman soy sauce bottle. The taste was surprisingly delightful, and the presentation was a creative touch that we appreciated.

Next up was the Stairway to Heaven, which had a smoky flavor thanks to the mezcal. Then we tried the Kyushu Sour, featuring rum and chili liqueur—a perfect combination of sweet and spicy. Last, but certainly not least, we enjoyed the Papa’ya Don’t Preach, a summery, sweeter cocktail that was refreshing and delicious. While we loved all of them, the Old Fashioned and the Stairway to Heaven were the standout favorites that excited our taste buds the most!

The service at Duke of Tokyo was also commendable. The staff was attentive, frequently checking in to refill our water and promptly clearing away dirty plates. The bar maintained a clean and inviting atmosphere, which is often a rarity in nightlife spots. We didn’t encounter sticky tables or unkempt bathrooms—definitely a plus for any bar experience!

If you find yourself in Rotterdam, I highly recommend visiting Duke of Tokyo. With its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and innovative cocktails, it promises a night full of fun and flavor. I’m already looking forward to returning and trying out their restaurant as well. Cheers to memorable nights in the heart of Rotterdam!

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Review: 8.5/10 

Price / Quality: 8 | Service: 9 | Atmosphere: 9 | Originality: 8 | Freshness: 10 | Choice: 7