In a street full of dodgy sex places, it’s surprising to find the craft bar Maltan. First time I saw Maltan I remember thinking to myself “Is this bar legit?” Look at the photo below - you can even see a geezer hanging outside and a “7000 yen” sign:

Outside Maltan, Kanda

But legit Maltan is, and for the same 7000 yen you can get seven pints or eight bottles and still have change for the train home.

Shiga Kogen IPA (guest beer) at Maltan

Regular beers include Maltan’s own Real Stout, Yona Yona Real Ale, Shiga Kogen Pale Ale, Hitachino White Ale, and Miyoshi Becken Weisen – there’s also one or two guest beers of tap plus bottles from Minoh, Ezo (made by Rogue), Swanlake, Hitachino, and Sankt Gallen. US pints are under 1000 yen and bottles range from 700-950yen – excellent value, though it does mean you’re not going to get beers imported by Nagano Trading (Stone, etc) in Maltan. In addition to beers there’s also wine by the glass and bottle.

Inside Maltan

Atmosphere is laid back and no frills – Maltan has no pretentions and I like that. When crowded it could get a bit smoky though, and it’s a little bit annoying that Softbank doesn’t work in the bar when you’re trying to work out whether you can squeeze in another pint before heading home. Food wise, I’ve only eaten once at Maltan and it wasn’t great – but others tell me the food is OK.

Maltan’s website is here. Phone number is 03-6559-5884. Closed Sunday.

Map modified from the Maltan website

To get to Maltan, come out the North exit of Kanda JR station and head left – Maltan is on the right.

My opinion? I’m a sucker for bars with relaxed atmospheres. Maltan doesn’t pretend to be a restaurant that has beer; it’s not a stifling bar where you wonder whether you can laugh out loud or not. Definitely my favourite of the bars in the Kanda area.