Bar Kintaro
Bar Kintaro has been running since 1993 as an izakaya-style Japanese bar in the heart of Liberdade, São Paulo's Japantown. The space models itself after a Tokyo drinking establishment: small, cramped, and charming. The menu runs Japanese bar snacks (yakitori, edamame, gyoza) alongside cold Sapporo and Japanese whisky. The crowd is a mix of Nikkei (Japanese-Brazilian) regulars and visitors drawn by the authentic atmosphere. Late nights see the bar shrink as groups pile in, conversations overlap, and the steam from the kitchen mixes with the warmth of whisky. It's a genuine slice of Tokyo transplanted to South America.
What to Expect
A tiny, bustling Japanese bar that could easily fit in Shinjuku. The atmosphere is warm, the food is genuine, and the drinks are well-poured. Expect to sit close to strangers and leave feeling like you've been somewhere special.
Cramped, warm, and authentically Japanese. Tokyo in São Paulo.
Japanese background music at low volume.
Casual. Compact seating means layers are impractical.
Japanophiles, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates an authentic izakaya experience.
Cash and cards accepted
Price Range
Dishes R$20-45, beer R$12-20, whisky R$25-50
≈ €2–8 / $2–9
Hours
Mon-Sat from 6 PM to midnight
Insider Tip
The yakitori is the standout menu item. Try the house sake if you're not in a whisky mood. Sit at the bar for the most authentic experience. It gets very cramped, especially on weekends.
Address
Rua Thomaz Gonzaga, 57
Other Venues in Liberdade
Lions Nightclub
Large multi-floor electronic music club with a rooftop area and 3D-effect dance floor. Regular lineups feature local and international DJs spinning house, techno, and Brazilian bass.
Samurai Karaokê
São Paulo's most famous karaoke box, open since 1969 across three floors with dozens of private rooms. The kitchen serves sushi, ramen, and gyoza between songs.
Chopperia Liberdade
Late-night bar combining karaoke, pool tables, and draft beer in a movie-set-style room with red walls and oriental lanterns. Open until 5 AM on weekends.
Izakaya Karaoke e Dancing
Old-school Japanese dance hall and karaoke venue popular with the local Nikkei community. Early arrivals pay a flat fee covering dinner and unlimited singing.