HUB, the British-style pub and go-to classic for every kind of traveler.
HUB is the British-style pub serving up all the best of top-notch bar fare at wallet-friendly prices.
Step inside for endless chances to mingle with new faces over drink and easy bar bites. No matter what the occasion, savvy travelers love dropping in on this reliable spot that’s always open from day until late night.
Below is a breakdown of how to make the most of your next visit to the HUB, recommended tips and what menu favorites to expect. Whether you like drinks, the chance to make Japanese friends, or just want a drink along your travels be sure to check back on this article for the best of the HUB.
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The HUB Rundown
The name HUB originates from the English word 'hub' meaning 'the center of a wheel,' but here it also implies a place where people gather. Combined with their whiskey-focused '82 (Eighty-Two)' brand, they have over 100 branches nationwide, making it no exaggeration to say that you can find a HUB in most bustling areas across Japan.
Inside the HUB you’ll find cash-bar style ordering at the counter, allowing for a casual and almost café-like time. The pub boasts a wide variety of bar drinks, with over 100 types of beer and cocktails available.
Inside you’ll also find tasty bar snacks, with British staples like Fish & Chips and Roast Beef being particularly popular. The wallet-friendly price points of drinks and bites, along with no cover charge, is a definite plus.
Enjoy tasty beers, cocktails, or highballs while mingling with friends and acquaintances at HUB.
The perks at HUB
All the loveable parts of HUB isn't just about savoring drinks and chatting with friends; it's also a place where new encounters are possible, offering the chance to make new friends and acquaintances in Japan. If you're visiting HUB, consider these ways to enjoy your time.
1. Enjoy Interacting with Locals
HUB often features closely spaced seating and an open atmosphere, making it easy to strike up conversations with other customers. Plus there are plenty of chances to mingle while ordering at the bar counter. The busier the pub, the easier it is to find someone to share a chat. If you're keen on bumping elbows with locals, try visiting during busier times or choosing a crowded pub. It might be your next chance to make Japanese friends.
2. Connect with International Visitors
HUB is a go-to favorite not only with Japanese locals but also tourists enjoying their travels in Japan. You can see this especially at HUBS near major tourist spots like Shibuya and Kyoto. Many love the HUB for the chance to mingle not only with Japanese locals, but also with people from around the world.
3. Hyped Up Over Sports
Join in all the hype while watching your favorite sports at HUB, where many branches come complete with multiple large monitors. Kick back over a drink while watching sports on the big screen for amazing vibes that make the air come alive. With all the buzz you may even drum up a few conversations with other patrons at the bar and maybe even make a friend.
Best ways to enjoy HUB.
Thanks to the cash-bar style ordering at the counter, it’s easy to pop in for a quick drink or to relax and enjoy drinks and bar bites. Many HUB locations are open from afternoon until late at night, typically until 11 PM to midnight on weekdays and even up to 1 AM or 2 AM on weekends. All branches are equipped with Wi-Fi and power outlets, and you can even use the restroom without having to buy anything. This flexibility of time and place is part of why people love the HUB. Here are some of the calling cards of people swinging by the HUB.
1. Post-Dinner Drinks
After enjoying a dinner of Japanese or local fare, you might find yourself thirsty for an easy drink. This is where the HUB comes in. With late night hours, you can enjoy a drink after dinner without worrying about the time. The cash bar-style ordering at the counter means things are easy in case you’re just looking for one drink before calling it a night. Ordering a beer or cocktail along with a light snack like Fish & Chips can be a great way to wind down before returning to your hotel.
2. Killing Time Between Plans
If you find yourself with some spare time before a restaurant reservation or a bullet train during your travels, consider popping into a nearby HUB for a quick drink. This can turn your idle time into a little pocket of fun. Just be careful, you may lose track of time before getting where you’re going. The convenience of Wi-Fi and power outlets inside the pub is also a plus.
3. A Break During Shopping or Sightseeing
Some HUB branches open in the afternoon, making it a convenient option if you’re looking for a quick drink during the day before heading off to another round of sightseeing. If you feel a little extra tired from your shopping or travels, the HUB is a great place to grab a light meal like roast beef or fish & chips, and relax with a beer or cocktail. The flexibility to enjoy a drink at any time, much like you would a coffee in a café, is one of the appealing aspects of HUB.
Must-Try Menu Favorites at HUB
At HUB, you'll find an extensive selection of over 100 types of bar drinks, along with a variety of light bites. With so many options, it might be challenging to decide where to start. If that’s you, you may want to kick off with some of the favorites listed below.
1. Tower Beer
Tower Beer is a HUB specialty, known as the jumbo beer with a whopping volume of 1 liter. Considering the average medium-sized beer glass at a Japanese pub ranges from 350ml to 500ml, Tower Beer offers about double that amount. It's served in a special measuring cylinder container that just begs for you to stop and snap a photo. It's great for sharing, but of course, there's no issue if you choose to enjoy it all by yourself.
2. Fish & Chips
Fish & Chips is a signature dish at "HUB" and a classic British specialty. Prepared according to authentic British recipes, HUB's Fish & Chips is a proud highlight of their menu. Enjoying it doused in ample malt vinegar, sourced from the UK, is the traditional way to savor this dish. The blend of flavors from the white fish and the unique taste of malt vinegar offers a delightful culinary experience that should definitely be tried.
3. Original Craft Beer
HUB offers two unique craft beers that can only be experienced there. One of them is the staple ale, "Hub Ale," known for its overwhelming freshness. It is shipped on the day it is kegged from the brewery and crafted with a luxurious blend of select malts and hops, finished with seasonally limited recipes. The other is "HUB CRAFT," a new original craft beer launched in 2021. This Session IPA (India Pale Ale) is distinguished by its refreshing taste derived from the pure subterranean water of Mount Fuji and a varied hop profile that imparts citrus and fruity aromas.
English-speaking staff behind the bar
At HUB, you'll find staff wearing 'ENGLISH OK' badges, signaling their ability to speak English. If you spot a staff member with this badge, feel free to approach them not just with questions but also for a casual chat. It's a great way to interact and get assistance in English.
Swing by the HUB when you’re downtown
HUB can be found in the following prefectures.
When you're exploring bustling areas during your travels, don’t forget to swing by a local HUB.
Here are some HUB locations in Tokyo and Kyoto, which are often frequented and beloved by tourists.
1. HUB Roppongi Store
The Roppongi branch in Tokyo is the first HUB establishment and has the longest history among the numerous HUB locations in Japan. Unique to this store is a timeline display in the hallway, showcasing its history. Its proximity to Roppongi Station, just a minute's walk away, is also a key feature to love.
2. HUB Shibuya Store
Located about a seven-minute walk from Shibuya Station, a common transportation hub for Tokyo sightseeing, the Shibuya branch features a wall display centered around guitars, making it a hit with UK rock fans. With many international visitors, it's a great spot for interacting with people of various nationalities
3. HUB Akihabara Store
The Akihabara store is one of the HUB locations that opens from midday. It boasts an indoor terrace at the storefront and large windows that let in plenty of light. Enjoy a comfortable midday drink while soaking in the ambiance of a British pub and the natural sunlight. Its close proximity to Akihabara's Electric Town is a bonus.
4. HUB Shinjuku Ward Office Street Store
Situated in Kabukicho, an area in Shinjuku known for its plethora of bars and restaurants, this store is a popular choice for bar hopping. Like its counterparts, it stays open late, making it convenient for various situations, whether it's for a second round of drinks or a final stop for the night.
5. HUB Kyoto Yodobashi Store
Another HUB location that opens from midday is the Kyoto Yodobashi store. Located right in front of Kyoto Station and directly connected underground, it's not only great for tourists but also a perfect spot for a quick drink while waiting for the Shinkansen when leaving Kyoto.
Frequently Asked Questions About HUB
Q
Is it really okay to just have one drink and leave?
Yes, it's absolutely fine. HUB operates on a cash-on-delivery system, which makes it convenient to stop by for just one drink.
Q
Can I go for a drink alone?
Yes, there's no problem at all. Many customers enjoy a solo drink, especially before meeting up with someone.
Q
Are there any HUB locations where smoking is allowed?
Yes, there are. Smoking areas are set up inside some HUB stores. Details can be found on the official website on each store's page. However, please note that not all stores have smoking areas.
Wrap-Up
HUB offers all the best of authentic British pub life, including great drinks and even better conversation. Thanks to its cash-bar style ordering, lack of cover charge and extended open hours, it’s an easy choice to drop in along your travels. Put a pin in this guide and head to the nearest HUB during your next travels.
Even if just for a little while, you’re in for a memorable time.