The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes)
For those riding the rails into Tokyo from Camp Zama or Naval Air Facility Atsugi, the Odakyu Line is a familiar lifeline to the capital city.
Disembark at Kyodo Station in Setagaya, and within minutes on foot you’ll arrive at Two Brits Burger Bar, an eclectic and cozy establishment that’s become a favorite among locals and expats in search of something hearty and familiar.
The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. Weathered typewriters and antique cameras compete for space with Union Jack flags and vinyl records, creating a dining area that feels like the attic of a well-traveled friend.
Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo boasts a surprisingly deep bench when it comes to beverages. Choose from dozens of craft beers, from Japanese microbrews to European imports, and wine list better than it needs to be. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes)
Start with the Triple Cheeseburger for 2,800 yen, or about $18.95. It’s as excessive and satisfying as it sounds — three 100% beef patties layered with molten cheese, pickles and the house sauce, stacked high on a buttery bun. There’s no lettuce or tomato to distract you when devouring this pure expression of burger maximalism.
For something local with a twist, the Teriyaki Burger layers a sweet-savory glaze over a pair of perfectly grilled patties crowned with a fried egg. It balances Japanese flavor with American heft for 1,950 yen.
The Teriyaki Burger from Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo balances Japanese flavor with American heft. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes)
The Fried Chicken Burger offers a crispy, juicy beef alternative at 1,600 yen. This thick slab of boneless, golden-fried chicken is spiked with barbecue sauce and tucked into a soft bun with lettuce and tomato.
Then there’s the Fish and Chips for 1,700 yen. It’s a standout for Tokyo — flaky, tender, flavorful white fish that’s not over-battered. The chips are chunky and well-seasoned and served with a side of house tartar sauce.
Beyond these standouts, the menu includes several rotating specials.
To drink, there’s a surprisingly deep bench. Choose from dozens of craft beers, from Japanese microbrews to European imports, and a wine list better than it needs to be. Service is warm and unrushed.
Whether you’re on a day off from work or just passing through on your way to central Tokyo, Two Brits makes for a casual, satisfying stop — and one of the few places where fish and chips, teriyaki burgers and reggae on vinyl feel like natural companions.
The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes)
Two Brits Burger Bar
Location: 1-21-22 Kyodo, Setagaya, Tokyo
Hours: Open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, expect Mondays. Closing time is 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Dress: Casual
Directions: A short walk from Kyodo Station on the Odakyu Line.
Information: 03-6413-5206; @twobritsburgerbar on Instagram