Salvage

After finishing dinner around Saiin in Kyoto, Salvage offers a welcoming spot when you want one last drink before calling it a night. Soft lighting and understated music set the tone inside, where a spacious arrangement of counter seats and tables accommodates solo visitors and small groups alike in comfortable, quiet surroundings.

While the back bar holds an extensive collection of whiskies and other spirits, the gin selection immediately catches the eye. Options range from Italy's Malfy Gin Con Limone, fragrant with Amalfi citrus, to Belgium's Panda Gin, layered with notes of lychee—both served as refreshing gin sonics cut with tonic and soda. The bar also suggests tailored pairings for each bottle, such as England's Dockyard Strawberry Gin lengthened with ginger ale, or Yuzu Gin, a Japanese spirit built on a sweet potato shochu base and accented with yuzu and sansho pepper, poured with tonic.

Staples like gin and tonics, Moscow mules, and China Blues are on hand at reasonable prices, making it easy to order according to your mood. Small bites, including pistachios, giant corn, mixed nuts, and sausages, provide simple accompaniment for a leisurely drink.

The bar operates until 2:00 into the early morning hours, and payment is cash only. Pull up a stool at the counter, let the bartender know what flavours you enjoy, and settle in for a relaxed finish to the evening.