The craft beer scene in Yokohama continues to grow and the city boasts a significant number of bar options for fans. The most recent addition is 29BY in Yoshidamachi. It touts itself as a craft beer and washoku (Japanese food) bar, specializing in horse and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
The name comes from a reading of 29 in Japanese, ni–ku, which is a homonym for meat. The B of BY stands for baniku (horse meat) and the Y represents yakitori. A good portion of the meat dishes are rare to raw. Beginners should try the Uma no Tataki Ponzu (lightly seared horse in ponzu sauce, ¥780), but for the more adventurous, go with the Horse Charcuterie (S ¥980/W(dbl) ¥1400), a mix of six variations of the meat. For the apprehensive, stick with yakitori, like Kigaru ni Omakase Kushi Sambon (chef’s choice of 3, ¥600).
The second floor bar has 8 taps that are an even mix of foreign and domestic craft (350ml, ¥850~). It is in the process of getting a brewing licence (under the name 254 Beer) with the expectation to make the switch to brewpub in mid-spring. Brewing activities will take up the first floor. Familiar face Yoshinori Gojo (previously of Yokohama Brewery) has taken on the job of brewmaster. Once brewing is underway, Gojo’s goal is to dedicate 5~6 of the taps to his recipes, which will showcase an array of styles. In addition to beer, 29BY also serves some shochu and sake (¥500~), including a unique sake made for them by Kanagawa’s Nakazawa Brewery. Only ingredients from the prefecture are used in the brew.
There are about ten stools at the bar and window counter, two tables for four and a cozy semi-private alcove. The bar area is non-smoking, but there is a smoking room in the back.