Premium Sawa at Izakaya Juraku: A Sophisticated Twist on Chuhai

We wanted to put a more grown-up spin on the classic Japanese chuhai, so we built our Premium Sawa with Nihon no Kokoro Shochu, paired with seasonal Japanese citrus syrups from Umami Insider.

What Is Sawa?

"Sawa" (サワー) is the Japanese term for a sour-style drink, often referring to what's known in Japan as chuhai. It typically combines shochu or vodka with soda water and fruit flavoring, a mainstay of Japanese izakayas.

Our Take

Our version leans into premium ingredients and traditional technique. The barley shochu gives it a light but elegant base, while rotating citrus syrups, Amanatsu, Kawachi Bankan, Sudachi, bring their own character, from sweet-tart to zesty and bright.

It's low in alcohol, so it's easy to enjoy over a long meal, and it works well with both grilled and fried dishes. Sophisticated but approachable, good for cocktail people and casual drinkers alike.

Find us at 121 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, and follow along on social media for seasonal updates.