A new bar concept has launched in Cheltenham this April 2026, with the arrival of Bar Tokyo at No.131. 

Previously connected to fine-dining Japanese restaurant YOKU, the atmospheric space is now a standalone bar, with entry exclusively via reservation.

Serving creative cocktails you're unlikely to find anywhere else, it brings a theatrical low-lit atmosphere, and a touch of upmarket cosmopolitan class to the heart of the town.

Its mood is opulent and seductive, making it a perfect spot for a cosy date night for two.

The new bar brings with it a light Tokyo Bites menu, consisting of indulgent small plates, served to your table.

We tried the super crispy rice cake topped with vibrant avocado, yuzu and wasabi, as well as another veggie offering of lightly deep-fried tofu which was melt-in-the-mouth with dashi, soy, daikon and ginger adding colour and texture.

Our favourite vegetarian bite, by far, was the yasai gyoza which was packed full of flavour.

As fans of more meaty dishes, we adored the diced tiger prawn tacos which were as much a visual feast, as an actual one!

The sashimi was gentle and moreish with pretty pastel shades of sliced chalk stream trout, sitting next to hamachi and tuna.

Service at Bar Tokyo is impeccable and friendly. When we couldn't decide on a cocktail, our waitress shared her top tip of a 'Kill Dill' which was perfection in a pretty, chilled glass.

Serving up a heady mix of vodka, smashed cucumber, dill, sake and palo santo, it had an air of sophistication and elegance. A cute frond of dill clipped to the rim of the glass, with tiny wooden peg, added a delicate aroma, as well as character and class to a drink that was so good, we had to have two!

Bar Tokyo is well worth a peek for a super smart date night, when you're keen to impress and eager to escape the daily grind and step into a world of glamour.