April Adventures Across Japan Phase 1 Continued

Day 5, Ueno Zoo

We took it easy, and got up at our own pace. I relaxed in the lounge-y area of the capsule inn and we set out to Ueno Park, and more specifically, the Zoo. It was a lovely day for it and we seem to have grown accustomed to long days of walking around. I found some of the... exhibits... to be lacking in space, while others seemed to be just fine... but I don't know much about how much room certain creatures need and since the park is fairly limited on it's ability to expand the area it takes up, I suppose they're doing the best with what they have. Still, cool creatures and a lovely day outside enjoying some spring weather before we head back up north.

We decided to walk back to Komagome, as it was a lovely evening and that's just the way we roll. We had a dinner destination in mind (Weeee COCO's!), but also just wanted to see what we could of Tokyo before we left in the morning. As we followed the path the Google maps laid out for us, we spied a photo of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra just inside a small pup called "Little Bard". We made mental notes to come back after we had eaten to check it out.

It was a dark and smokey place, with only two other patrons (not that all that many more could fit inside). Classical music played in the background as we pulled a stool up to the bar and watched the bartender mix up a highball for the man sitting next to us. The barkeep smiles, but looks a little nervous, then focuses upon his work. He was meticulous in his drink preparation, slicing the lemon just so, shaking the mix slowly... pacing himself... then more vigorously until he's satisfied, poured it and presented it to his customer.

That sealed it. We had to have a drink at this establishment.

However he passed us no menu and just said "no English menu". I attempted to tell him I could read a little Japanese so it was ok, but it wasn't until the man next to us said he could speak a little English that the tension went away. We asked him what he recommended, he said this drink and gestured to what he had been served.

We ordered and got to watch the show once more.

He made us each a variation of a Harvard Cooler and it was quite refreshing. Our fellow patron chatted with us a little, then went on his way. The Bartender had warmed to us a little, and we made small conversation with him. He gave us some juice as 'service', so I gave him a Canadian flag pin as thanks. We finished our beverages, bid him a fond farewell and made our way back to Komogome.

Found me some DBZ cola.