Jackie_m
I won't mention where it is, but about 10 years ago, a really small shop called "VIVO" opened in front of the station in my regular town. At first, I think it was run by a female manager, but gradually it started to function as a gathering place for the younger crowd in their 30s and 40s who had moved to this area, which is often dominated by regular customers of existing stores. The tiny shot bar, with several branches in Tokyo, is known for its space-saving design and affordable prices, as each manager brings snacks from the headquarters to work at each branch. However, the reputation of the shop started to deteriorate, with noise complaints and rowdy behavior becoming common. Amidst this, my favorite Chinese restaurant continued normal operations despite the pandemic, but unfortunately, the customers noticed and the atmosphere changed, causing me to avoid the place for a while. Eventually, I ended up at "VIVO! BEER+DINING BAR" with a young girl and an older man, and to my surprise, the place was spacious and the drinks were expensive. We ordered drinks and I tried a fruity beer that tasted like peach juice, which was surprisingly delicious. As I observed the single women at the counter, I was struck by their quiet presence, contrasting with the typical behavior of new customers who often confide in the staff and then never return. The connection between this shop in Ikebukuro and the one in Higashijujo remains a mystery, as the girl and I parted ways at the train station. She headed towards Shinjuku on the Yamanote Line, while I went north on the Akabane Line. In truth, I wanted to follow her and take her to Uguisudani, but instead, I headed towards Gandhara, contemplating the complexities of human relationships.