When I was in Onomichi, I was surprised to learn that there was a craft beer bar there. For such a small town, I was wondering how they could have such a nice little bar there. Looking at the shops in the area, I’m not very surprised, but I was more surprised to hear that it was one of a few craft beer bars in the area outside of Hiroshima. While the neighbouring areas of Mihara and Fukuyama are bigger, as far as I can tell, they don’t have a craft beer bar. If you need any craft beer and you are in the area, this is the only place to go.
Beer Bar – A Clue
When I went, I was not surprised to see how quiet it was. There were no people there, but I think a couple people just left as the bar wasn’t very clean. That was changed very quickly though. As I drank my first drink, more and more people came in. A lot of foreign tourists visited while I was there, but most of them just came and went. They had just one or two drinks before heading back to their hotel or guesthouse. There were a few Japanese patrons too but they were a minority in comparison.
Minoh Beer – Kosaru IPA
“A clue” is a good place to get craft beer, but apparently not on the day I arrived. Usually they have 5 different beers on tap. I couldn’t completely understand why, but I think the owner used his portable tap counter for a festival and it wasn’t hooked up yet. In other words, he only had 2 craft beers on tap and Heineken. I was a little sad to hear that but the beers on tap were good. There is also a good selection of beers in bottles, but the day I went, the selection was a little limited. I was still happy to drink while I was there and would happily go back again if I could. Unfortunately they are closed on Thursdays, the day I really wanted to go back, so I couldn’t go again.
Sierra Nevada – Torpedo Extra IPA
While “A clue” is primarily a bar, they do have some small foods. I got to try a little of the snacks and they were good as well. They weren’t spectacular but definitely worth a try in the future. I’ll have to try the food if I am ever in Onomichi. I did see a couple order a sausage but that looked a little too standard for me. I’m sure the owner actually has some off menu items and I would be more than happy to try those as well.
Beer Bar – A Clue
When it comes to interesting shops, “A clue” is a great place to go. The owner is very knowledgeable on beer, but he is a little limited with English. He has a few basic words to explain things but hesitates to use what he knows. If you go and expect to have a great conversation with him, you may be disappointed. If you engage with him a little, I’m sure he’ll be willing to try, but don’t worry if he can’t respond, or doesn’t respond. He is very kind and will help you if you need anything.