A Kichijoji craft beer shop introduces a “red nitro”

Ben's Slop Shop in Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino City, Tokyo, featured Nitro Kawasakey from TKBrewing on Instagram. True to its character as a beer pub where you can take your time and enjoy craft beer, this post carefully conveys the appeal of this “red nitro.”

What kind of beer is it?

'Nitro Kawasakey' is TKBrewing's nitro version of a red ale. The post explains that it was created as an homage to Kilkenny, which was discontinued in Japan in 2021. Stylistically, it is said to take Irish red ale as its inspiration while adding an American craft interpretation.

The hops used are Sorachi Ace and Sabro. Unlike the hops you might usually imagine in a typical British-style beer, the addition of Sabro, with its coconut and tropical notes, gives the beer a modern expression within a classic frame. The fine, creamy foam characteristic of nitro is another highlight.

What it means to drink it at Ben's Slop Shop

Ben's Slop Shop is known in Kichijoji's craft beer scene as a place that clearly brings out the individuality of guest beers. In this post as well, the shop says it will be tapped at the final event, suggesting that it treats the beer not as a mere novelty pour, but as something to be enjoyed together with its background.

Behind 'Nitro Kawasakey' lie memories surrounding Kilkenny and an eye toward the Irish-style tradition connected to Guinness. If you drink it after learning that story, the reddish color and the nitro mouthfeel should feel even more layered. It is a beer you can talk about, suited both to your first pint in Kichijoji and to a leisurely closing drink.