Cafes Archives - Savvy Tokyo

10 Pumpkin Spice Latte Spots in Tokyo To Try This Fall

The Savvy Team — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Fall comes around, and immediately, you see chestnuts, sweet potatoes and pumpkins take over Japan’s restaurants, cafes and various food and drink chain stores alike. However, when it comes to America’s fall favorite drink, the pumpkin spice latte, it’s surprisingly hard to get your hands on it in Tokyo…

Well, other than at your closest Starbucks during the season. However, for those looking to try something more unique or local, here are 10 other places in Tokyo to enjoy a cozy, hot, or chilled pumpkin spice latte this season.

1. Blue Leaf Cafe

Blue Leaf Cafe has taken advantage of the wide variety of seasonal ingredients that autumn in Japan has to offer. Using ingredients like pear and sweet potato, they are offering three special limited-time seasonal drinks: a Pear and Vanilla Latte, a Sweet Potato and Cinnamon Latte, and, of course, for this list, a Pumpkin Spice Latte—available iced or hot.

Where: Blue Leaf Cafe Ueno, 2−7−7 Ueno, Taito City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥770

2. Cafe Ëmeri

A PSL with real fall soul—spiced with nutmeg, cinnamon and clove for that warm, hug-in-a-cup feeling. Ëmeri’s version leans aromatic and artisanal, made in a tiny neighborhood cafe known for calm corners, omurice or pasta lunches, seasonal bakes and thoughtful, slow-coffee vibes.

Where: 5-14-4 Minami-Osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥710

3. Ojizo Coffee

Why not try this pumpkin spice latte made with creamy oat milk? It’s available iced or hot and can be enjoyed with American-style cookies served by Monsta Sweets Tokyo—a foreign-owned business in Japan. Grab one of their various baked treats along with your special seasonal drink.

Where: Ojizo Coffee Koenji, 2-37-8 Kōenjikita, Suginami City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥650

4. Butter Coffee Stand

Here’s a PSL for pumpkin lovers who want to try all things pumpkin! For a limited time, Butter will be selling a homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte made with Hokkaido pumpkin and several types of spices. They will also sell various pumpkin-inspired baked goods, such as pumpkin cannels, pumpkin basque cheesecakes and pumpkin financiers.

Where: Butter Coffee Stand, 2-1-1 Arai, Nakano-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥800

5. Streamer Coffee Company

Try this seasonally limited caramel pumpkin latte at the Streamer Coffee Company in Shibuya and Setagaya. Available hot, this cozy drink keeps you warm at this third-wave coffee-inspired cafe—a style of coffee shop that purchases and roasts its own coffee and serves it in its own store.

Where: Various stores
Price: ¥950

6. Torse Cafe

This hot pumpkin spice latte, available only in autumn, uses warming spices like ginger and cinnamon and is topped with a cute merengue. Torse Cafe also offers a variety of adorably decorated cakes and other sweets to enjoy with your drink. They also have a classic omurice on the menu for those looking for something more savory too.

Where: T & F Building 2F, 5-35-5 Shimouma, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥935

7. Aux Merveilleux De Fred Tokyo

Velvety pumpkin spice meets creamy foam perfection. This French-style café brings back its seasonal fall favorite, layering rich espresso with cozy pumpkin spices and a light, cloud-like cream topping. Available hot or iced—the perfect sweet treat to pair with their signature airy pastries and Paris-in-Tokyo charm.

Where: 107-2 Yaraicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥850-910

8. Awakening Cafe

Awakening Cafe’s seasonal pumpkin spice latte blends gentle spices with creamy sweetness. Beyond good coffee, this Kita-Ueno spot hosts a weekly English Cafe every Saturday, bringing locals and internationals together for casual conversation and cultural exchange—a welcoming hub for coffee lovers and globally minded creatives alike.

Where: Ichiro Building 4F, 2-23-9 Kitaueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥800

9. Noi Tokyo

A gentle, nostalgic take on the pumpkin spice latte, Noi Tokyo in Otsuka pours autumn comfort into every cup. Inspired by memories of a grandmother’s kitchen, this bakery-cafe is all about warmth, baked treats, and quiet happiness. They offer Wi-Fi, outlets and pet-friendly seating, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely coffee break or remote work.

Where: 3-38-14 Minami Otsuka, Toshima, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥750

10. Haishop Cafe

Shibuya Scramble Square’s 2025 autumn theme is all about the five senses, with shops and restaurants offering treats that delight through aroma, texture and flavor. Among them, Haishop Cafe serves a Fair Trade Spiced Pumpkin Latte that warms both the body and soul. Made with rich seasonal pumpkin and ethically sourced spices, it delivers gentle sweetness and a soft, aromatic spice finish.

Where: Scramble Square 7F, 2-24-12 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Price: ¥700

Editor’s Note

Not all of these PSLs come with coffee, and their availability varies by store.

Where do you get your pumpkin spice lattes in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments!

This article has been updated with the latest information for 2025.

10 Cozy Book Cafes To Check Out in Tokyo

Suzanne Bhagan — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:00:00 +0000

When it starts feeling chilly, the fall girl in me is rearing to go. It’s the season to catch up on my reading, of course! During crisp, cool days, I like to take my book to the park or library. However, the cherry on top of all my reading experiences has to be at book cafes in Tokyo. What could be better than sipping and turning pages while the city rushes by?

These 10 book cafes in Tokyo are not only small and cozy but easy to get to. Many are located within walking distance of train stations. Although some featured on this list are hidden in plain sight, you can always give the cafe a call for directions. And if you’re hungry, many of them offer bites to eat or even substantial meals so you can finish those pages without starving.

1. Weekenders Coffee All Right

When a proofreading company opens a bookstore, you pay attention. Kamome Books is home to not only curated shelves but also a popular book cafe. Sip a delicious hand-dripped brew and peruse books chosen by the pros. Some of the seating is outside, giving this cafe a somewhat European vibe.

Address: Daiichi Yarai Building 1F, Yaraicho 123, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Kagurazaka Station, less than a 1-minute walk
Price: Coffee from ¥550
Opening hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Closed on Wednesdays

2. Books Itomai

With places like Starbucks and Tully’s a dime a dozen in Tokyo, it’s hard to find that one cafe that ticks all the boxes for bookworms. Intimate? Check. Rustic? Check. Adjoining bookstore? Check. No talking allowed? Check, check, check! The only downsides: opening hours are fickle and you can only use the cafe for up to two and a half hours.

Address: Machida Building 2F, 1-2-5 Tokiwadai, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Tokiwadai Station, 1-minute walk
Price: Drinks from ¥500; Weekdays ¥30 charge per seat; Weekends & Holidays ¥50 charge per seat
Opening hours: Check X and Instagram

3. Manga and Coffee

Although manga cafes can be found around every street corner in Tokyo, this is not your average manga cafe. Firstly, you can actually read here! The manga collection is extensive, with over 50,000 titles! Another plus: the atmosphere is relaxed, open and clean, qualities many manga cafes are not known for.

Address: Akimoto Building 2F, 2-42-17 Sasazuka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Sasazuka Station, 3-minute walk
Price: ¥1,500 to stay all day!
Opening hours: 10 a.m.-1 a.m.

4. Mafumi Coffee and Books

A hidden book cafe in Tokyo with a secret door? Yes, please! This cafe also challenges you to try coffee brewed in different ways from just one bean variety. The floor-to-ceiling shelves are also jampacked with around 4000 books, reflecting the owner’s motley tastes.

Address: 3-1-7 Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Jimbocho Station, 5-minute walk
Price: Coffee from ¥900
Opening hours: Weekdays 12 p.m.-11 p.m.; Weekends & Holidays 12 p.m.-9 p.m.

5. Aruza Dokushoukan

This place may be tiny, but it’s worth it if you value absolute quiet while reading. Squirrel away in this enclave with a nice brew and a book. Or just stare at the aquarium fish and browse the shelves to your heart’s content. Note that this cafe can have long wait times.

Address: 3-57-6, Koenjiminami, Suganami City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Koenji Station, 5-minute walk
Price: Drinks from ¥680
Opening hours: 12 p.m.-10 p.m.; Closed on Mondays

6. Book House Cafe

With over 10,000 picture books, this bright cafe is a little kid’s fantasy. Up the spiral staircase and past the Narnia-like lamppost, you’ll also find Kitazawa bookstore, which is great for secondhand foreign books.

Address: Kitazawa Building 1F, 2-5 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map link)
Closest Station: Jimbocho Station, 1-minute walk
Price: Adult drinks from ¥500, Children’s drinks from ¥300
Opening hours: Weekdays 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Weekends & Public Holidays 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

7. Mori no Tosyo Shitsu

When the owner wanted a library vibe but with chatting, eating, drinking and much friendlier after-work hours, he created this “Forest Library.” Even though it’s located close to the Shibuya scramble, it feels miles away from that madness. Be sure to sample food from your favorite books and Ghibli movies here, too!

Address: Shibuya Daiichi Kangin Kyodo Building 8F, 23-3 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Shibuya Station, 1-minute walk
Price: One hour with unlimited soft drinks ¥1,120
Opening hours: 9 a.m.-10:45 p.m.

8. RBL Cafe

Short for “Reference Book Library,” the RBL book cafe in Tokyo promises to “tickle your intellectual curiosity” with around 7000 eclectically selected reference books. No literary works here but dictionaries, encyclopedias and more! There are even quiz trivia nights if that’s your thing.

Address: 5-32-12 Daizawa, Setagaya City, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Shimokitazawa Station, 5-minute walk
Price: Weekday plan: 3 hours for ¥300 (pay for drink separately)
Opening hours: Weekdays have irregular hours, so check the website for updates; Weekends & Holidays 1 p.m.-8 p.m.

9. Passage bis! Books & Cafe

Step into another world right in the middle of Tokyo! With dark-toned furnishings, chandeliers and jewel-toned walls, Passage bis definitely gives off some major Parisian vibes—order and head upstairs to get some serious reading time in.

Address: Sunside Jimbocho 3F, 1-15-3 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Jimbocho Station, 1-minute walk
Price: Drinks from ¥650
Opening hours: 12 p.m.-7 p.m.

10. Kaido Books and Coffee

This book cafe in Tokyo welcomes all “travelers” to Shinagawa, famous for being the first stop on the old Tokaido trail. Settle in with a good book from its extensive book collection and dig into one of the cafe’s signature scones or unique hot dogs.

Address: Maruya Bldg 103, 2-3-7 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Closest Station: Kita-Shinagawa Station (5-minute walk)
Price: Kaido dog from ¥900
Opening hours: Wed-Fri 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Weekends & Holidays 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays

Be sure to bookmark this article and check out five more cafes for book lovers. If you’re keen to explore more of Tokyo’s very own booktown, be sure to read our Jimbocho guide. Happy exploring!

The Best Brunch Spots in Tokyo

Kimberly Hughes — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0000

There is something to be said for a quick brekkie on a busy morning in the metropolis as you stop by your favorite café for a coffee to go, grab a sandwich from your local conbini, or whip up something fast at home. And then, there is brunch, a meal to savor and linger over—preferably on a relaxed Tokyo weekend—whether with friends, family, a date or even solo.

Our roundup of brunch spots in Tokyo encompasses a wide variety of options for food styles, ambience, price ranges and locations. So sift through our 15 recommendations, and then get brunching!

1. Berth Coffee (Nihonbashi)

Find this spot on the first floor of the Citan Hostel. Seating is available both indoors and on the outdoor terrace. Breakfast fare includes options such as open-faced sandwiches, seasonal soups, salads, and an array of homemade cakes and pastries—plus fabulous coffee drinks served in attractive ceramic mugs. Pro tip: Head to the downstairs restaurant in the evenings for cocktails, dinner fare, and weekend DJ sets (plus chilled-out playlists throughout the week).

Where: 15-2 Nihonbashiodenmacho, Chuo-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Daily from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cost: Croissants/pastries from ¥250, sandwiches from ¥500

2. Lattegraphic (Jiyugaoka)

The Aussies do not mess around when it comes to brunch-style fare—and Lattegraphic does it to perfection. This sprawling café offers scrumptious eats like coconut cream and kiwi-accented granola bowls, avocado toast (but of course), and sides including poached egg and bacon. And with the edgy wall murals and shelves of artsy books, you’ll legitimately feel like you’ve just stepped into a Melbourne cafe.

Where: 1-8-18 Jiyugaoka 2F, Meguro-ku (Google Map Link)
When: 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily
Cost: Mains from ¥900

3. Sarabeth’s (Marunouchi)

Known as “The Breakfast Queen of New York,” Sarabeth’s opened its first store in Japan in 2015 and has since been one of the most popular places for Tokyoites to get classic eggs benedict, pancakes and French toast throughout the day. Here, time passes slowly, the food is delicious and reasonably priced, and you can be sure that you won’t leave the restaurant hungry since the portions are NY-style as well!

Where: Atre Shinagawa 4F, 2-18-1 Konan, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Mon-Sat: 9 a.m.-12 a.m., Sun & Holidays: 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
Cost: From ¥950

4. Clinton St. Baking Co. (Minami-Aoyama)

Clinton St. Baking Company doesn’t have a specific brunch plan but instead offers a variety of goodies that can be enjoyed all day long, at your own pace and preference. New York-inspired dishes are the trend here, but this is a rather broad concept, certainly not limited to pancakes and eggs. The menu includes the owner’s signature buttermilk biscuit sandwich with bacon, country breakfast, Spanish scramble, huevos rancheros, sandwiches and burgers, and so much more.

Where: 5-17-1, Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Open daily, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Cost: From ¥1,000

5. Good Morning Cafe & Grill (Toranomon)

Good Morning Cafe & Grill has taken a fairly lackluster location in the middle of the concrete jungle and created a great place to dine outside. Potted trees and misting fans help keep the outdoor space cool, and large awnings provide shade for some tables. Rather than a view that looks down on the city, this one allows guests to gaze up at one of Tokyo’s tallest and most striking skyscrapers. Both a morning menu and a lunch menu are available on weekends and holidays, offering options such as scrambled eggs, burgers, salads, sandwiches and steaks.

Where: 2-16-6 Nishi-shinbashi, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Weekends and national holidays: 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Weekdays: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Cost: From ¥1,200

6. Bubby’s (Yaesu)

Bubby’s serves an assortment of fluffy pancakes, juicy burgers, and, most famously, American pie. Choose from delicacies like the classic apple, apple crumble, or the favorite, Michigan sour cherry. A good cherry pie is a rare find in Tokyo, so this is the place to indulge in it. Pair it up with a coffee or homemade pink lemonade. There are also a variety of brunch plates available, including various kinds of savory eggs benedict that come with a serving of seasoned home fries or salad.

Where: Yaesu Underground Shopping Center 3rd Avenue B1, 2-1 Yaesu, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
When: Weekdays 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m. (L.O. 9:30 p.m.); Weekends/Holidays 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (L.O. 9 p.m.)
Cost: From ¥1,500; Pies are ¥880 a slice

7. The All Day (Higashimukojima)

This is the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you are visiting a friend’s home. The regularly updated weekend à la carte menu has featured dishes to date such as beef stew and a green chile shirasu (whitebait) omelet, along with creative sides including shishito peppers with karasumi (squid ink) sauce. Several sausage types are also on offer–think coriander, parsley and shiitake mushroom. The restaurant’s tagline is, in fact, “craft beer and good sausage”, so go ahead and wash down your brunch with a cold one, or enjoy one of the delicious coffee beverages.

Where: 2-24-14 Higashimukojima, Sumida-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Saturdays/holidays: Noon to 11 p.m.; Sundays: Noon to 10 p.m.; Weekdays: 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m. to midnight.
Cost: Mains around ¥1500; Sides around ¥600 to ¥900

8. Woodberry Coffee (Shibuya)

If you like your lattes creamy and your brunch enjoyed in an attractive wood-toned atmosphere, Woodberry Coffee is for you. The baristas here are extremely attentive, going out of their way to explain the characteristics of each coffee type. Brunch-worthy plates include bagels topped with cream cheese and lox; granola and fruit-topped yogurt served in coconut husk bowls; and a robust grilled basil and chicken sandwich accompanied by tangy stone mustard and cumin-infused pickled red cabbage.

Where: 2-20-18 Higashi, Shibuya-ku (Google Map Link) Other locations also available.
When: Brunch served from 8:30 a.m. daily
Cost: Around ¥1,500 (half-sandwiches available for around ¥800)

9. Le Pain Quotidien (Shiba Park)

This bakery-restaurant from Brussels is a favorite brunch and breakfast spot for many expats living in the Minato area of Tokyo, and for good reason: the bread here (although not cheap!) is really delicious. The eggs benedict here are some of the best in the city. You can also enjoy other simple but beloved brunch dishes such as avocado toast, goat cheese, mushroom and spinach omelets, Belgian waffles, Surf & Turf brunch and more.

Where: 3-3-1 Shibakoen, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Open daily, 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Cost: Average around ¥1,000 to ¥2,500 for brunch.

10. Massif (Ikejiri-Ohashi)

Just steps from the Meguro River, brunch here feels like stepping inside a gallery. Amidst the cool wall art, chunky flower pots and stylish washi lamps, enjoy a weekend brunch of rotating fare whose plates to date have included Turkish eggs accented with spiced butter, crispy potatoes and confit garlic yogurt; and classic French toast topped with seasonal fruit. There is also excellent coffee and a spread of pastries and baked goods, including what may well be among the tastiest focaccia you’ll have in your life!

Where: 3-7-11 Higashiyama, Meguro-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 11 a.m.–3 p.m. (L.O. 2:45 p.m.)
Cost: Mains around ¥1,400 to ¥2,300

11. Cedros (Daikanyama)

Featuring surfboard-lined walls and sea creature art installations, this restaurant will make you feel like you’ve been transported right to the California shores. Weekend brunch menu options include scrambled eggs with plump chunks of Hokkaido snow crab topped with delicate Canadian lobster tail, served alongside crunchy toast; and huevos rancheros, a Cal-Mex-esque affair featuring a pair of handheld-sized tostadas piled high with eggs, beans and avocado, and flecked generously with feta cheese.

Where: Tradgard Daikanyama Ｄ, 1-32-3 Ebisu-nishi, Shibuya-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Mains ¥1,500 to ¥4,000; Cocktails ¥1,500 to ¥3,000; Champagne add-on: +¥5,000

12. Mercer Brunch (Roppongi)

This favorite little place of ours has everything you’d expect from a quality brunch in Tokyo: delicious food, a spacious terrace to enjoy it on, and an interior that simply tells you to sit back and relax. Specializing mainly in egg dishes and NY-style brunch, the menu features everything from salmon tartar to homemade sausages. Plus, all brunch deal items come with a serving of their beloved brioche French toast. Oh, and did we mention that the coffee is good, too?!

Where: Vort Roppongi Duels 1F, 4-2-35 Roppongi, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (Weekdays), 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Weekends). It is also open for dinner until 11 p.m.
Cost: From ¥1,700

13. Taste The World (Gaienmae)

Formerly known as World Breakfast All Day, this unique place reminds us in the most delicious possible way that yes, breakfast and brunch are universal. Every two months, this diner changes its menu to introduce traditional breakfast plates from all over the world—from Japan to Vietnam to the UK, Italy and beyond. The menus are curated in cooperation with foreigners and embassy officials living in Tokyo, so you can trust that the taste is authentic.

Where: 3-1-23 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku (Google Map link)
When: Daily, 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Cost: Around ¥2,000

14. Le Pristine (Toranomon)

Le Pristine offers brunch in your choice of two, three or four courses. Overseen by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman, the menu features an artistic presentation of seasonal foods, beginning with the exceedingly tender Akaushi wagyu. Additional brunch touches include artistic Inku tableware inspired by Japanese izakaya, created by the chef in collaboration with Serax, and a genre-transcending playlist (think Khruangbin and slow jazz).

Where: 2-6-4, Toranomon, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Weekends and national holidays: 12 p.m.–3 p.m. (L.O. 2 p.m.)
Cost: 2-Course ¥7,700; 3-Course ¥8,250; 4-Course ¥9,570

15. The Oak Door (Roppongi)

Grand Hyatt Tokyo’s weekend brunch at The Oak Door is a luxurious yet cozy place that offers a seasonal buffet with options to add free-flow champagne or drinks. The buffet includes everything you can imagine—eggs, meat, seafood, salads, soups and desserts. The perfect deal for real brunch lovers in Tokyo who don’t mind spending a little more on Sunday’s main meal.

Where: Grand Hyatt Tokyo 6F, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku (Google Map Link)
When: Weekends and national holidays, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m
Cost: Food only: ¥6,600; With free flow drinks: ¥8,800; With free flow champange: ¥11,000; Seafood add-on: +¥4,400

Which of these brunch stops in Tokyo interests you the most?

Kiyosumi-Shirakawa: The Underrated Coffee Town Of Tokyo

Victoria Chow — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0000

A little way out from central Tokyo, off the Hanzōmon Line, you can find yourself in a place known as Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. Over the years, the neighborhood has developed a name for itself as the “Coffee Town” of Tokyo. The name has only become more of a reality as more shops open up.

While many people recognize Shimokitazawa in Setagaya-ku as the trendiest, hipster place in Tokyo, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is rising in popularity with some of the best coffee you can find. The area is visited by a heterogeneous crowd, from families out on a bike ride together to young couples out for a casual lunch. You’ll find a variety of people living here as it’s one of the more affordable places to live within Tokyo.

If you’re a big coffee drinker or cafe enthusiast, then this is your area of Tokyo.

Cafe Culture in Japan

As you explore Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, you’ll quickly notice just how deeply rooted cafe culture has become in Japan. Over the past decade, coffee has transformed from a simple drink into a whole experience. It revolves around atmosphere, design and slow moments. Many people head to cafes not necessarily for the taste of coffee itself but to enjoy a calm, cozy space where they can read, reflect or even get some work done.

That said, Japan’s love of cafes isn’t entirely new. Long before the rise of modern espresso bars and trendy micro-roasters, there were 喫茶店 (kissaten)—traditional Japanese-style coffee shops dating back to the Showa era. These retro spots often feature dim lighting, leather booths and handwritten menus. They serve nostalgic classics like siphon coffee and pudding with a cherry on top.

The Western Influence

Many of the newer cafes in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa are clearly influenced by Western culture. These spots often strive to recreate the relaxed atmosphere that European cafes are famous for. Think sleek, minimalist interiors, expertly crafted coffee and gentle background music that helps clear your mind.

It’s common to see people working on laptops in cafes, as shared workspaces and remote work have become more widespread. Similar to Parisian teahouses, many newer cafes also serve pastries like cakes and macarons. You might also notice more English on menus and signage. These points reflect the international vibe and the fact that cafes are still somewhat of a non-traditional space in Japan.

While modern cafes in Japan—usually just known as カフェ (kafe)—are inspired by Western styles, the traditional kissaten remain distinct. Although the distinction between the two is blurring, you’d never call a trendy modern cafe a kissaten. The term is reserved for those nostalgic Showa-era spots that come with a very different kind of charm.

My Go-To Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Coffee Spots

In Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, dozens of stylish cafes and independent roasters have opened in recent years, many just steps from one another. It’s a great place to have a cafe crawl, with some offering a kissaten-like nostalgia and others a more modern feel. If you’re not a coffee expert, no worries—just ask for the house blend to get a taste of what each cafe is all about.

Western Style: Blue Bottle Coffee Company

Blue Bottle Coffee Company is a well-known coffee shop and roastery in the U.S. With the first Japanese branch located here in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, it’s no surprise that it’s popular with locals and foreigners alike. The shop has a warehouse feel, with high ceilings and an industrial interior from the metal accents. Although the inside is quite wide, it gets extremely packed on weekends around lunchtime.

After visiting on a Saturday afternoon, I soon realized I wouldn’t be getting a seat anytime soon, as the line wrapped around the building. It just goes to show how trendy this small part of Tokyo and cafes are becoming. Despite not being able to enter at that time, I did indeed stop by again to grab a morning coffee. The waffle and latte art were made for a photo op, and this is the perfect place to snap a picture for the ‘Gram.

For those who want to recreate the same taste at home, this particular branch is a roastery in addition to a cafe. You can buy coffee beans and take them back with you. They even offer instant coffee packages for those without the fancy equipment.

Modern Kissaten Style: Fukadaso Cafe

When looking for a kissaten, you want to be able to enjoy that unmistakable Showa-era charm. Fukadaso Cafe is housed in a renovated 50-year-old apartment building that was once on the verge of demolition. Rather than erasing its history, the owner lovingly preserved its retro character with minimal interference.

The idea was to revive the space while continuing the warm, everyday habits of neighborly connection that used to be the norm. Today, it’s become a casual gathering spot for locals. It’s a place where you can drop by for a breather and find familiar faces. Inside, you’ll find vintage furniture, art-filled walls and a relaxed, airy layout.

Their blend coffee, made with beans from the nearby Arise Coffee Roasters, is sweet, balanced and neither too dark nor acidic. It perfectly complements their house-made cheesecake or the cherry-topped firm pudding—a classic kissaten dessert that often sells out on weekends.

Arise Coffee Roasters

While it’s a much smaller shop, only equipped with stools, you can also stop by Arise Coffee Roasters to get some black coffee and pick from their selection of different beans. It has a vastly different vibe from your typical cafe atmosphere and more of a grunge look.

Cafes To Eat At

Many cafes in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa are becoming increasingly food-focused, offering carefully crafted menus that go beyond just coffee. This focus on food complements the coffee experience, making the area a destination not just for caffeine lovers but also for foodies.

Cafe Ginger Tokyo

This cafe is tucked away in the older parts of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa. Located on the second floor of a narrow building is a shop called Cafe Ginger Tokyo. You can hear vintage music playing the moment you step in.

By the entrance, there is a large shelf with records lined up from top to bottom. The shop seemed to be divided into two parts: one side filled with books, which evokes a cafe, and the other by the kitchen, which sets up the bar vibe. Despite this, the general atmosphere is very peaceful, and you won’t have to worry about any bothersome customers.

They have a wide variety of drinks and meals on the menu and offer lunch and dinner specials. While a typical cafe may have sandwiches and salads, I was surprised to see that this cafe was offering curry. With Indian style curry, their featured item on the menu was a “Butter Chicken Curry”.

Along with coffee, they had other soft drinks and a surprisingly wide selection of beer. They also had specialty drinks, such as “Coconut Azuki Milk.” Unfortunately, I decided not to get it this time, but it gives me an excuse to go back!

Dreadnought Books & Cafe

If you’re looking for a similar atmosphere to sit down and enjoy quiet time, try visiting Dreadnought Books & Cafe. It’s located about a 10-minute walk away from Cafe Ginger Tokyo. The name says it all; it’s the perfect place to plop down with your favorite book and get reading.

The food menu here is very kissaten-inspired, with thick cuts of toast and various nostalgic desserts. Main meal offerings include omurice with demiglace sauce and other rice plates like curry and Hayashi rice. If you’re looking for a more savory snack, they also offer various kinds of toasties with cheese and bacon or corn beef.

Sometimes, it really helps to get away from the familiar setting of your own home. I find myself focusing better on what I’m reading when I’m in a cafe. Here, you can do the same while enjoying a cup of coffee and a kissaten-style feed.

We are always looking for new places to try, and our Kiyosumi-Shirakawa coffee stop selection is only the beginning! Let us know about your recommendations!

10 Baby-Friendly Cafes & Restaurants in Tokyo

The Savvy Team — Mon, 05 May 2025 23:00:00 +0000

You finally manage to leave the house, hoping to get some work done or just want to enjoy a well-deserved coffee break outside while your baby naps away. But everywhere you look, it is full of people chatting loudly, or the tables are so close to each other that you can almost rub your neighbor’s shoulder. It’s not ideal for what you’ve planned for today, so it’s time to look for something new. The following is a list of 10 conveniently located family- and baby-friendly cafes in central Tokyo where you can sit down, relax, and have a break in a pleasant atmosphere, with, of course, ample space for you and your little date.

1. Latte Chano-Mama

Located at the Shinjuku Isetan department store, this café is heaven for families. You can bring in your own baby food and you don’t need to feel hesitant to breastfeed—in fact, you’re encouraged to do so! You can take your stroller inside and sit on the large elevated seating area, which is perfect for the baby to nap or roll around while mom is working or enjoying a chat with her friends. Tables and chairs are for children from six months or older. The café also organizes monthly workshops for mamas, where you and your baby can make new friends.

Address: Isetan Shinjuku 6F, 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

2. Kichiri Mollis

Though it doesn’t strike you a place to go with a napping baby at a glance, this café is, in fact, quite a well-known spot among young Tokyo moms—mainly for its soft rugged floor and semi-private rooms covered with curtains. There are many types of seatings to choose from, a few of which allow you to sit on a rug where you can freely let your baby crawl around. The restaurant occupies the whole floor of a building equipped with breastfeeding and diaper changing rooms. Shoes and strollers are not allowed inside but the staff takes good care of them at the entrance. Due to its popularity, the seats are limited to two hours per visit.

Address: Shinjuku Nakamuraya Building 6F, 3-26-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Open: Daily, Lunch: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dinner: 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

3. Minori Cafe

Famous for their vegetable sweets and spacious open space area, this café is very welcoming for parents with small babies. On sunny days, you can take your food out and eat on the bench outside their pleasant outdoor terrace. The menu is full of healthy options, including gluten-free rice flour bagel sandwiches, organic local vegetable soup and their especially refreshing apple green tea soda. Baby room and diaper changing facilities are located on the same floor.

Address: Ginza Mitsukoshi 9F, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Open: Daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (Weekends & Holidays from 10 a.m)

4. Ukafe

Located right next to the popular beauty salon Uka in Midtown Tokyo Roppongi, this café is known for its great variety of healthy “beauty juices” and delicious lunch and dinner menus. Their enzyme brown rice plate with daily side dishes is highly recommended. Strollers are allowed in the café and highchairs for kids are available upon request. A baby room is located on the same floor with two private changing rooms and a kids play space.

Address: Midtown Galleria 2F, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Open: Daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

5. Karaoke Pasela, Roppongi

Don’t underestimate karaoke boxes in Japan! The famous chain Pasela has one of the best kids’ playrooms in the entire Tokyo area, equipped with so many toys and fun stuff for your kids to do that your little ones will never want to leave. They also offer three-hour packages for families that come with free refills, honey toasts and other sweets, a three-course meal and free karaoke for just ¥2,980 on weekdays. They are also equipped with microphones and special food menu for the kids, as well as bouncers, rental toys, diaper changing mats and diapers, and even baby oil.

Address: Pasela Resorts Roppongi 1F, 5-16-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
Open: Daily, 5 p.m.-5 a.m. (Weekends & Holidays from 11 a.m)

6. Bondi Cafe Hiroo

This Australian-based cafe (named after the iconic Sydney beach of the same name) has four locations in Tokyo. The chain boasts that it is pet and kid-friendly, and I went to the flagship cafe near Hiroo Station. They had an extensive coffee menu for all you coffee-lovers out there, as well as separate menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Menu items are made-to-order and sourced from local ingredients whenever possible, so it’s got a nice farm-to-table vibe. The cafe has indoor seating (includes comfy couches, long wooden tables and plenty of high chairs) and outdoor seating (spacious enough to keep a sleeping ankle-biter, as the Aussies say, in their stroller next to your table).

Where: Barbizon 70 1F, 5-15-9 Minamiazabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
When: Daily, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.

7. Yurinoki Tsuburano in Shinjuku Gyoen Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a gorgeous public garden that should be on everybody’s Tokyo bucket list. So if you find yourself wandering through the garden with your baby and hear your stomach growl, Yurinoki Tsuburano in the middle of the garden is the perfect kid-friendly pitstop. On warm, sunny days, there is ample outdoor seating, although when I went, our big group of parents and children opted to sit inside. There were plenty of highchairs available for all of the kiddos in the group, and a menu of basic Japanese dishes that pleased everyone. You place your order at a vending machine that has only Japanese (no English and no pictures), but don’t worry: there are menus at the tables that have plenty of pictures so you know what you’re getting, and the meals are numbered as well. Just pay attention to that and you’ll have no problems!

Where: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
When: Daily, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Food is only available between 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m)

8. Butter

If you’re walking along the Yokohama waterfront with a kid in both arms and soon realize that you are all in desperate need of some sustenance, you have to stop by Butter in the Bay Quarter Yokohama mall. It has outdoor seating in addition to about 12 tables inside. If your kiddo is walking and antsy, the outdoor seating is great because there is no place to go besides up and down the sidewalk—that’s all kids need anyway, right? The kiddos will have to get pretty far away from your table before being able to get into any trouble. My toddler loved watching the boats, trains and traffic while we waited for our stack of 10 (yes, 10!) pancakes to split amongst our group. The specialty lemonades were delish!

Where: Bay Quarter Yokohama 2F, 1-10 Kinkocho, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa (Google Map Link)
When: Daily, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

9. A Piece Of Cake

This quirky café is adjacent to the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum in Aoyama. A small ramp takes you to the outdoor seating area, which overlooks the unusual sculptures created by avant-garde artist Taro Okamoto. If time permits and your baby is in a carrier, you can visit the small museum to see the studio where he worked. There is a coin parking lot directly opposite the café for mamas who drive.

Address: 6-1-19 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
When: Thu-Mon, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

10. Spring Valley Brewery

Considering how popular microbreweries have become in the last decade, it was still a surprise to me how Spring Valley Brewery in Daikanyama is incredibly baby-friendly. Their outdoor seating area is spacious and comfortable, with a mix of seats in both the shade and the sun. Not only can you bring your kids, but feel free to bring your pup along too, as it is also pet-friendly! Their baby chairs don’t have buckles, but as long as it isn’t peak mealtime, there is enough open space to pull the stroller right up to the table. The beer flight, consisting of six small pours of house brews, was a great choice to pair with my chili burger. The next time you’re out for a walk with the baby and the dog and get a craving for some craft beer and pizza, this is the place to go!

*Do note that children preschool age and younger are not allowed after 5 p.m. on weekdays.

Where: Log Road Daikanyama, 13-1 Daikanyama-Cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (Google Map Link)
When: Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.-12 a.m., Sundays 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

Do you have any recommended baby-friendly cafes in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments!

This article is written in collaboration with Mai Shoji, Emily Clemenson and Joanna Pearce.

Matcha: The Ultimate Guide With Benefits & Best Places to Try in Tokyo

Luisa Heenan — Sun, 20 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0000

“Tea is the ultimate mental and medical remedy and has the ability to make one’s life more full and complete.” These are the famous words of Eisai, the influential Japanese monk who introduced green tea from China to Japan in the early 12th century. Nine centuries on, we’re still continuously surprised by the numerous health benefits of matcha and the many creative ways we can incorporate it into our lives. It is a superfood that Japan prides itself on for a reason.

More Sophisticated Than Just “Green Tea”

Matcha—not to be confused with regular green tea—is a type of green tea that uses very carefully selected (and treated) young tea leaves that are ground into a bright green powder. The powder is then whisked with hot water, producing a usually very dense and often bitter taste. Unlike matcha, the regular green tea (the one you can find at your local convenience store) uses tea leaves that have been infused in water and then removed. In other words, matcha preserves all its natural components, producing a highly concentrated cup of health benefits you need.

Everyone who has been exposed to Japanese culture in one way or another may know that matcha has been used in traditional tea ceremonies for hundreds of years. The meticulous approach and precision invested in a single cup of matcha are only factors in understanding its cultural importance.

Why is Matcha Expensive?

Only the highest-quality green tea leaves make matcha. Farmers cultivate it under extremely special conditions using only the highest-quality leaves. They hand-pick the leaves, remove the stems and veins, and grow them on special bushes. These bushes typically stay under shade, which increases the chlorophyll content and boosts the nutrients. As a result, drinking just one glass provides the nutritional and antioxidant value of 10 cups of green tea. Due to high domestic demand, Japan exports just one to two percent of its total production. You can easily recognize the authenticity of the powder by its price—if it’s cheap, it probably isn’t the drink you’re looking for. If you’re unsure, check this price guide:

Cheap (¥300–¥800 per 100g)

Often used for cooking or blending into other products
Lacks rich flavor and smooth texture

Mid-range (¥1,000–¥3,000 per 100g)

Good balance of flavor, but may lack the deep umami of premium stuff
Typically sold in larger quantities or from well-known brands

High-quality (¥4,000–¥10,000+ per 100g)

Superior flavor, vibrant green color and smooth texture
Grown in optimal conditions with careful processing to preserve nutrients and taste

What Are The Health Benefits Of Matcha?

Matcha is packed with antioxidants called catechins, which are the key to anti-aging, while also being anti-inflammatory and helpful in fighting chronic diseases. Among its many antioxidants, it also contains a high quantity of EGCG, which is known for its powerful anti-carcinogenic properties. Matcha has 137 times more of this antioxidant than regular green tea. Here are some of the other beneficial components:

L-theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and decreases stress. It can also aid with alertness and memory. It is said that Zen monks used to drink matcha to keep them alert but relaxed throughout their long sitting meditations. Research shows that L-theanine can also raise levels of serotonin (a happy hormone) and dopamine (a pleasure hormone). Although all teas contain this quality, matcha contains five times the amount found in regular green and black teas. Although matcha contains caffeine (one serving contains 35 milligrams, while one shot of espresso has approximately 75 milligrams), the L-theanine balances out the body’s response to the caffeine, so you are gaining alertness and sustained energy without the potential coffee jitters.

Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the naturally occurring compound in plants that gives them their juicy green goodness. Growing matcha tea leaves in the shade results in a higher concentration of chlorophyll in the plant, hence the gorgeous emerald color of the tea. Chlorophyll is a potent detoxifier, as it binds to heavy metals and toxins in the body to clean and purify the blood. It is also highly alkalizing, so it helps balance pH levels in the body. This could be one of the reasons why sushi restaurants offer powdered tea at the table—to aid with mercury detoxification.

In addition, matcha is also reported to have these benefits:

Increased metabolism (a.k.a. fat burning and weight loss)
Boosted energy and endurance
Lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol
Balanced insulin levels
Better skin condition

However, rather than being based on scientific research, these studies are most commonly based on population surveys and experiments; thus, more research is needed to back the data. Nevertheless, it is clear that one matcha cup a day will take you a long way.

How To Use Matcha At Home

Traditionally, matcha powder is used to make tea, which tastes similar to a very strong brewed green tea. Nowadays, you can find it in plenty of things, including baked goods, ice creams, candy bars, chocolates, matcha lattes and whipped drinks, but please don’t think you’re doing great things for your body by consuming these things! The best way to consume matcha is in its original tea form with just hot water and in moderate quantity. Yes, there are a lot of tools you can get to perfect the traditional experience, but as long as you have the powder and water, the rest is not strictly necessary.

Where To Find The Highest Quality Matcha

Japan obviously has the best quality matcha, and you can easily find some basic products even at your local supermarket. However, if you’re after the real thing, it is recommended that you look for products from Shizuoka and Kyoto, the two matcha meccas in Japan.

Brands such as Tsujiri, Marukyu-Koyamaen, Ippodo Tea and Yamamasa Koyamaen are well-established brands with years of history offering the finest products. More recently, Material Matcha Uji, a Kyoto-based company founded by two French men whose love for matcha is profound, is also a good recommendation. Their hip products are continuously contributing to the modernization of matcha and its popularity is spreading overseas.

Matcha in Tokyo

For an authentic taste of matcha in Tokyo (and splendid scenery), head to one of the following establishments:

Nakajima No Ochaya in the Hama-rikyu Gardens
Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Garden in Ueno
Yamamoto-tei in Shibamata
Engawa Cafe near Takenotsuka Station
Chaya 1899 Tokyo in Shinbashi

Recipe: Tropical Matcha Smoothie

If you want to mix it up and try something a little cooler and refreshing, here’s a quick and delicious smoothie recipe.

Ingredients

½ cup fresh or frozen mango
½ frozen banana
200–250 milliliters of coconut water (depending on how thick you like it)
½ teaspoon good-quality matcha powder
1-2 tablespoons coconut milk (optional)

Instructions

Pop all ingredients into a blender and whiz until smooth. This makes a perfect breakfast to kickstart your day!

Have a great tea time!

This article was originally published in 2014 but has been updated and republished with the latest information for 2025.

Step Back In Time With Tokyo’s Top 5 Traditional Cafes

Shizuka Sakamoto — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 23:00:00 +0000

From cafes opening as early as the birds start singing to free morning sets to special office stops serving your macchiato just the way you want it, it’s not an arduous deal to get that java fix at any given time of day in Tokyo. But for true joe lovers, coffee is just as much about art and pleasure as it is about atmosphere, and nothing does it better than Japan’s kissaten (traditional coffee houses). Here everything is about respecting the art of coffee making and just taking it slow. Next time you need a coffee break in Tokyo try one of these five traditional cafes.

1. Chatei Hatou

There’s something about this place that makes you forget it all as soon as you step in. Though located in the heart of Shibuya, it shuts off all city distractions and noise. You’ll feel thousands of kilometers away from the hustle and bustle. The cafe’s original Hatou Blend (¥900) offers the perfect balance of bitter and sour java. The owner selects your cup from around 400 options displayed behind him based on his impression of you. With nearly 30 years of experience, he serves personalized coffee. A bonus point is that the cafe stays open until late at night.

Address: 1-15-19 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Business hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Access: 3-min walk from Shibuya Station, East Exit

2. Cafe Casa

“Hot” and “cake” are the two keywords for this cozy place, and yes, you get it; we’re there for the pancakes as much as we are for the coffee. Since 1984, Cafe Casa has been devoted to serving some of the city’s best hot cakes that taste just as good as they look—and take our word for it, they’re huge! This is a great place if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth and indulge in it all by yourself.

Address: 3-41-1 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Business hours: 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed Mondays)
Access: 5-min walk from Gaien-mae Station, Exit A3

3. Sabor

Built in 1955, Sabor is one of the oldest and most famous cafés in Jimbocho. It resembles an old wooden house in the middle of a jungle. A popular destination for people of all generations, it gets crowded easily, especially on weekends, but it’s worth the visit (and revisit). Serving a wide variety of coffee blends and teas, we also encourage you to try Sabor’s original Fresh Strawberry Juice (¥800) for a taste of real strawberries topped with salty nuts.

Address: 1-11 Kanda Jimbo-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Business hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (closed Sundays)
Access: Turn left after exiting Jimbocho Station, Exit A7

4. Galant

If you have ever wondered how cafes really looked back in the Showa era, visit Galant, and you’ll know. Time has literally stopped here since 1979 when it first opened, just outside Ueno station. The bubble economy is still at its full here: from the gaudy decor and shiny chandeliers to the burgundy sofas and retro tiles, treat this cafe as your private Showa-era museum. The best on the menu (aside from all those coffee blends, retro-style sandwiches and cakes) is the all-time Japanese favorite cream soda, melon soda with vanilla ice cream and a cherry topping (¥1,000).

Address: 6-14-4 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Business hours: 8 a.m.-10:30 p.m.
Access: 1-min walk from Ueno Station, Exit 5b

5. Café de L’Ambre

Café de L’Ambre, an iconic coffee shop established in the 1940s, preserves its Showa-era charm. The café’s vintage coffee-making equipment, wooden decor and antique ambiance create a sanctuary for coffee enthusiasts. Since 1948, Café de L’Ambre has stood apart by offering meticulously crafted brews, remaining true to its philosophy amid the changing coffee industry. In the 21st century, many coffee shops have succumbed to marketing gimmicks, masking poor-quality coffee with deceptive claims. Café de L’Ambre rejects this trend, continuing to showcase the authentic essence of coffee, even as global commercial pressures have compromised the quality of beans.

Address: 8-10-15 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo
Business hours: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Until 7 p.m. on Sundays and Holidays, closed Mondays)
Access: 7-min walk from Shimbashi Station, Exit 2

Are you ready to escape noisy Tokyo by visiting these traditional cafes?

LGBTQ+ Owned/Operated Eateries in Tokyo

Sydney Seekford — Tue, 21 May 2024 23:00:00 +0000

When it comes to LGBTQ+ spaces in Tokyo, the lion’s share lives in Shinjuku Ni-chome. While Ni-chome’s well-known nightlife is great for the right mood, it’s hard to capture the tenderness of gazing into each other’s eyes over a drink when the soundtrack is bass music and shouting. We sniffed out six queer-positive eateries in Tokyo that don’t limit the fun to bar time.

Alamas Cafe
Seijo Sakedokoro En
Cafe & Bar Hinata
Shinjuku Dialogue
Dorobune
Roy to Silo

While you’ll certainly be able to get a beer at most featured establishments, we’ve picked spots where alcohol isn’t the main focus. Conveniently, many of the locations we scouted are located around tour hubs and areas with solid support for foreigners, guests and tourists alike.

Alamas Cafe

The menu at Alamas Cafe leans tex-mex with its focus on loaded street-style tacos and nachos. Though the name Alamas comes from the Thai language, Christian iconography and Mexican fiesta energy inspire much of the decor at this Ni-chome eatery. Looking at the venue’s X (formally Twitter) page would give the impression that this is just another theme-y bar, but you can pop in confident that you’re going to find some real food. It’s a good Uber-eats option too if you’re hungry and still want to support the community.

The cafe is operated by Aliving, a company that also runs Aisotope Lounge, Aiiro Cafe (not a cafe, for the record, but an English-friendly bar and LGBQ+ life resource) and Avant Garde Tokyo.

Address: 2-12-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Price: ¥1,000～¥1,999
Hours: Weekdays: 6 p.m.–2 a.m.; Fri, Sat, Sundays before a holiday: 6 p.m.–5 a.m. the next day; Sundays, holidays: 3 p.m.–12 a.m.

Seijo Sakedokoro En

In many ways, En is an izakaya like any other. Homey Japanese dishes fill patrons up after a long workday. Here, “toriaezu, nama” (the Japanese equivalent of “Just a beer for now!”) is a cultural equalizer, not just an order. Located about three minutes from Seijo Gakuen-mae station, you won’t see the owners of En making a big deal of their connection to the LGBTQ sphere. Instead, their pride comes from a commitment to fresh ingredients and a genuine appreciation for good nihonshu (sake).

We recommend this spot for couples who aren’t looking for a place that’s loud and proud. Instead, En offers a chance for queer couples to fully enjoy a simple and very real experience. Come here for karaage and hand-holding under the table without worrying about a sideways glance.

Location: Royal Garden Seijo 1F, 6-3-15 Seijo, Setagaya Ward, Tokyo
Price: ¥2,000～¥2,999
Hours: 2 p.m.-10:30 p.m. (Last order at 9:30) (Closed Tues/Wed)

Cafe & Bar Hinata

Hinata opens at three and runs into the night at its fifth-floor venue in Ikebukuro. The space has Japanese “bal” bistro energy like a patissier crashed into an izakaya. We love it though, because the freedom and creativity that flow through Hinata’s menu make it especially welcoming. Hinata’s appeal reaches into the hearts of women looking for a space to be themselves.

Aside from being no-boys-allowed, Hinata has one more quirk: smoked meats are the specialty. Popular menu items like ham-donburi (a rice bowl topped with house-made ham), smoked bacon and eggs, and even cream cheese aren’t what you’d typically expect to find in a place that also offers lattes and chiffon cake. If you’ve ever felt too worried about scarfing down smoky bacon and saucy, spicy noodles in front of others, this is the spot to let it all hang out.

Address: Dai-3 Tsunagari 5F, 1-1-14 Ikebukuro Toshima Ward, Tokyo
Price: ¥1,000～¥1,999
Hours: 3 p.m.–11 p.m. Closed Tues and one other day a week (check calendar)
Remarks: Women only.

Shinjuku Dialogue

Order a drink and donate 50 yen to one of the designated sustainable development goals. Beer, soft drinks, coffee—take your pick! Then order a vegan lunch plate to go with it. Dialogue commits itself to forming close ties with local farms and offering a menu that highlights plant-based and fermented foods.

This Shinjuku San-chome cafe brings individuals from all walks of life together to consider how we can move towards a brighter future. With contemporary ways of thinking and a palpable concern for the way things are going, Dialogue invites all people to enjoy food prepared with respect for each other and the planet.

Address: Shinjuku Building 1, Hall 2, F3, 3-1-32 Shinjuku, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Price: ¥1,000～¥1,999
Hours: Cafe: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Bar: 6 p.m.-11 p.m. (closed Mon, Tue)

Dorobune

Dorobune is loved for its izakaya atmosphere, but the philosophy of its specialty is the real kicker. After all, okonomiyaki and life are both most enjoyable when you honor your own preferences!

The menu includes a solid variety of other dishes too, including salad, gnocchi, pickles and udon specially sourced from a long-running maker in Koenji. Dorobune is the place to go for Okonomiyaki and other teppan dishes with a group of friends and even pets! While men are allowed with recommendations or accompanied by women, Saturday is a girls-only day, so keep that in mind!

Addres: Tokyo, Shinjuku-ward, Shinjuku 2-7-3, Vera Heights Shinjuku Gaien 205
Price: ¥1,000～¥1,999
Hours: Tues-Thu, Sun: 7 p.m.-12 a.m. (last order at 11 p.m.); Fri: 7 p.m.-1 a.m., (last order at midnight); Sat: women only, 7 p.m.-1 a.m. (last order at midnight); Closed Mon
Remarks: Dog-friendly. Men must be accompanied by a woman on the first visit.

Roy To Silo

This evening-only dessert bar is inspired by a children’s book featuring two male penguins, Roy and Silo, who raise a chick. The owners don’t rely on gimmicks to make a sale though, as cute as the penguin mascots may be. Instead, they pour their hearts into hand-made whipped cream and vanilla ice cream parfaits.

Occasionally, Roy To Silo opens for afternoon tea events and offers novel twists, such as warm parfaits in winter. Hungry guests can try the curry too, but we recommend going for the classic vanilla parfait with a bonus dollop of whipped cream served tableside.

Address: Reo-su Building 3F, 2-41-3 Kabuki-cho, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Price: ¥2,000～¥2,999
Hours: Wed/Thurs: 8 p.m.-1 a.m (last order at midnight, 60 min seat limit); Saturdays: 8 p.m.-2 a.m. (last order at 1 a.m., 60 min seat limit); Sundays: 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m. by reservation only

Have you been to any of these spots or recommend any other LGBTQ+ owned eateries in Tokyo? Let us know!

A note from the author: While different cultures and individuals choose to adopt many different definitions of “woman”, we cannot guarantee what definition these women-only establishes prescribe to, so as always–be true to yourself and protect your energy.

Unique Ways To Celebrate Strawberry Season in Tokyo 2024

The Savvy Team — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 23:00:00 +0000

One thing that many people in Japan eagerly anticipate during the winter months is the arrival of ichigo (strawberry) season. These delightful berries are primarily cultivated within greenhouses, providing a controlled environment with carefully regulated temperatures that ensure exquisite taste and consistent quality. With over 300 varieties characterized by deep red color, sweetness and mild acidity, Japan leads global strawberry consumption. While you can enjoy Japanese strawberries by simply purchasing them from supermarkets, fruit shops or department stores, why not celebrate the strawberry season more uniquely this year in Tokyo?

Strawberry Chinese Afternoon Tea

Strawberry afternoon tea is a trendy way to enjoy strawberries during the season in Japan but they usually don’t feature the culinary delights of Hong Kong! This Strawberry Chinese Afternoon Tea from ANA InterContinental Tokyo’s Karin Chinese Restaurant offers 10 savory and eight sweet dishes on the menu with strawberry-infused stand-out dim sum dishes. Paired with high-quality Chinese tea like Red Oolong and fragrant Lychee tea, make it an afternoon to remember! For those looking for a less unconventional option, ANA InterContinental Tokyo also offers a classical strawberry afternoon tea set that incorporates a variety of other berries too.

Date: Now Through Sun, Jun. 30, 2024
Location: ANA InterContinental Tokyo 3F, 1-12-33 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo
Price: From ¥9,944 per person

Strawberry Curry or Pasta

The Capitol Tokyu Hotel’s Strawberry Fair 2024 offers a lineup of shakes, ice creams, parfaits, lunches, dinners and cocktails—all infused with the essence of strawberries. Among the highlights are unique strawberry lunch sets at Origami, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant. The two main dish options, pasta or curry, are served with strawberries in the mix. The pasta incorporates strawberries with prawns and the curry combines strawberries with seafood. The sets also come with a strawberry salad with lightly grilled scallops as well as a small strawberry parfait for dessert—the perfect choice for a memorable date or girls’ night.

Date: Now Through Sun, Mar. 31, 2024
Location: The Capitol Tokyu Hotel 3F, 2-10-3 Nagatachō, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Price: From ¥4,933 per person

Strawberry Pizza

Following the theme above with strawberries being incorporated into typically savory foods, here’s another one that’s turned into a dessert. Strawberry pizza with a custard base! Although Japan is infamous for putting uncommon things on their pizza whether that be tuna, mayonnaise or corn, surprisingly dessert pizzas are still unique in Japan. Try this strawberry dessert pizza at the Pizza Salvatore Cuomo & Bar in Shinjuku! They’re currently running a 90-minute Winter Strawberry Buffet that comes with a variety of authentic Italian dishes as well as strawberry desserts with the strawberry custard pizza included!

Date: Now Through Sun. Feb. 29, 2024
Location: Shinjuku Nomura Building B1F, 1−26−2, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Price: From ¥3,500 per person (for lunch buffet). You can book on Hot Pepper for discounted prices.

Strawberry Bread, Butter and Tea

Start your day with a uniquely strawberry-filled breakfast or brunch featuring these three delectable items:

This brioche is filled with cream cheese, infused with concentrated strawberry syrup and topped with sparkling strawberry confiture.

Boulangerie Maison Nobu’s Strawberry Cream Cheese Bread | ¥400

This Japanese spread combines a melting buttery texture with the refreshing acidity of fresh strawberries, offering a rich yet clean aftertaste.

Seijo Ishii’s Strawberry Butter (270g) | ¥980

This strawberry tea, crafted solely from fresh domestic strawberries using a method that gently removes moisture to preserve flavor and aroma, is caffeine-free and suitable for all ages and times of day.

Macure House’s Strawberry Tea Made Only From Domestic Strawberries | ¥756

Strawberry Events

If one shop isn’t enough to satisfy your strawberry cravings, take a look at some of these Strawberry events that list a variety of shops selling strawberry products within a close range of each other. Make a day out of strawberry season in Tokyo with friends by walking around the particular areas and trying each of the strawberry picks from each store!

Expect a range of strawberry-themed items, from desserts like parfaits and tarts to beverages like lassi and cocktails, along with cute accessories and workshops suitable for both kids and adults.

Tokyo Sky Tree Town’s Strawberry Fair | Until Thu, Feb. 29

Tokyo Tower’s front plaza in Shiba Park will feature an array of sweets and drinks made with lots of strawberries under the theme ‘Strawberry Picking at Tokyo Tower!’.

Strawberry Festival in Tokyo Tower 2024 | Until Sun, Mar. 3

Popular shops, cafes and restaurants in Omotesando have teamed up with Saga’s ‘Ichigo-san’ brand strawberries for a limited-time collaboration, featuring exclusive menus crafted by each venue’s chefs and patissiers.

Ichigosandou | Until Sun, Mar. 31

Strawberry Beauty Products

Now that we’ve fully convinced you (we hope) of the excitingly unique ways strawberries can be consumed during the season, it’s time to explore our top picks for berrylicious beauty products that incorporate real strawberry essence.

This sheet mask, enriched with domestically sourced white strawberries, hydrates the skin without feeling greasy, promoting a soft, moisturized complexion with improved makeup application.

Saborino Mezama Sheet Premium Mask SB23 | ¥1,650

This cleansing balm, enriched with Amaou strawberry extracts, gently exfoliates the skin, removing makeup thoroughly without the need for double cleansing, leaving the skin soft and moisturized.

Duo The Cleansing Balm Amaou Strawberry (90g) | ¥3,960

This shampoo provides moisture to the hair and scalp, while enhancing hair shine, volume and strength with Ebina strawberries.

Every Nature Days’ Strawberry Shampoo (500ml) | ¥2,200

If you’re interested in making a day out of indulging in the delight of plump Japanese strawberries more simply this season, there are numerous strawberry picking locations in and near Tokyo to visit this spring. Savor them on the spot or take some home to concoct a unique strawberry dish of your own making!

Are you an ichigo fan? What unique ways have you been enjoying strawberry season in Tokyo this year? Let us know your favorites!

Written by The Savvy Team, with contributions from Tabitha Wilders.

Tokyo Chocolate Shops: 7 Best For Valentine’s and Beyond

Elizabeth Sok — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Is there any time of the year in Japan when chocolate is more in demand than early spring? From Valentine’s to White Day, advertisements for sweet treats fill our eyes and ears. With bean-to-bar chocolate on the rise in popularity these recent years, we’ve seen an explosion of local farm-to-customer chocolate makers in the Tokyo area. And, to make this more accessible to your average shopper (and chocolate lover), many shops now offer detailed information about where they’re sourcing their cacao and how their chocolates are crafted so that you can choose one that best suits your values and taste preferences.

Come explore this exciting landscape of Japan-based chocolatiers and entice your palate with the breathtaking variety of flavors, designs and textures that the city has to offer. To help you on this adventure, we’ve compiled a list of seven of the very best Tokyo chocolate shops for 2024. So, go forth and satisfy your sweet tooth!

1. Green Bean To Bar Chocolate

This chocolate shop, founded in 1990, is premised on making an organic chocolate bar from fairtrade beans and handcrafted at every stage. Buy their single-origin chocolate bar online or at one of their two Tokyo chocolate shops in the city. Notably, their “Palo Blanco-Peru-50%-Milk” is an award-winner as are the “Madagascar-Nibs” and “Fukuoka-Hojicha,” among others. While shopping, why not take a seat in their cozy cafe? Order specialties like cacao tea, a spicy chocolate drink or a chocolate tart! You won’t regret sampling the luxurious taste of these cacao beans!

Location: Nakameguro: 2-16-11 Aobadai, Meguro City, Tokyo; Nihonbashi: Coredo Muromachi Terrace 1F, 3-2-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Nearest station: Nakameguro (Tokyu Toyoko Line); Mitsukoshimae (Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzomon Line)

2. Minimal Bean To Bar Chocolate

Since it was founded in 2014, the Minimal brand, true to its name, has been devoted to producing delicious bean-to-bar chocolate using the simplest of ingredients. All of the chocolate bars they create are completely vegan and made using unprocessed sugars. The brand prides itself on sourcing a diversity of cacao beans from around the world. Their chocolatiers are trained to differentiate between 39 unique flavor notes. When visiting their flagship store and small factory in Tomigaya, you can taste a world of chocolate like no other while guided by their knowledgeable staff. For those who can never have enough chocolate, subscribe to their Chocolate Addict Club and receive a daily chocolate sample.

Location: 2-1-9 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (flagship store, cafe and factory)
Nearest station: Yoyogi-koen (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)

3. Artichoke Chocolate

Artichoke Chocolate is a passionate group of chocolate artisans who strive to create beautiful and high-quality wares while sourcing their cacao beans directly from small producers and Japanese farmers. When visiting their store, you will notice this shop’s minimalist design juxtaposed against their products’ sense of whimsy. Their chocolates come in a variety of designs with some chocolates shaped like snowmen, fried eggs and mushrooms. You can also try their popular “chicken” chocolate designed to look like a drumstick. For those who adore fruity flavors, you will be pleased to taste their “orange peel” chocolates. These treats are made by dipping Mediterranean Valencia orange slices in rich chocolate, resulting in a juicy flavor.

Location: 4-9-6-1F Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Nearest station: Kiyosumi-shirakawa (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)

4. Craft Chocolate Works

Hailing from Tokyo’s Setagaya Ward, Craft Chocolate Works is a perfect fit in the trendy capital. This shop specializes in cacao sourced from countries we don’t normally associate with the coveted bean such as Vietnam, India, Madagascar and more. Matching the dynamism that Setagaya is known for, Craft Chocolate Works’ packaging is visually striking. The designs draw on traditional Japanese motifs, like cranes, as well as geometrically-inspired designs. To sample a bit of everything, try the “mini-bar assort” that includes 12 kinds of chocolates in their signature packaging. Or, grab one of their popular ice cream cones for a chilly dessert!

Location: 2-7-4-1F Ikejiri, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Nearest stations: Sangenjaya and Ikejiri-ohashi (Denentoshi Line)

5. Un Jour Chocolat

With the hopes of turning your ordinary day into a special one, Un Jour Chocolat offers a wide variety of chocolate options to brighten your day. Carefully sourcing their cacao beans from Peru and Ecuador, this shop carries boxed chocolates and “gateau chocolat” that range from milk to dark varieties. For their most famous item, check out the “round chocolat”. This item combines melted chocolate with almonds, hazelnuts or dried fruits and shapes them into 20 centimeter-wide disks. Alternatively, the store also sells “baby rounds,” mini versions of the original. These are available in 10 types and make for cute, bite-sized treats!

Location: Roppongi Hills North Tower B1F, 6-2-31 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Nearest station: Roppongi (Hibiya Line)

6. Cacao Zoku

Cacao Zoku is a chocolate shop that bases itself on family, comfort and authenticity. Walking through its doors, you’ll feel cozy with the warm, earthy aesthetic. While many Tokyo chocolate shops feature cacao beans from several international suppliers, Cacao Zoku primarily focuses on Venezuelan beans for their products which are all handmade in-house. The shop sells intricately decorated boxes of chocolate, showcasing designs inspired by Venezuelan culture and chocolates infused with nuts, spices and fruits. Pick up some ice cream or hot chocolate too for a treat on the go!

Location: 2-48-15 Denenchofu, Ota-ku, Tokyo
Nearest station: Denenchofu (Tokyu Meguro Line)

7. Maison Cacao

As a Japanese luxury chocolate brand, Maison Cacao creates gorgeous handmade chocolates with the Japanese palate in mind. Their 2024 collection, titled “Symphony,” features a wide range of “aroma” or aromatic chocolates. Flavors include pinot noir, kiwi, muscat grape, hyuganatsu (Japanese citrus), coconut and much more. The brand’s chocolatiers use only the highest quality ingredients to create their chocolates. They even source their fruit from orchards located across Japan (or abroad if it is part of their “tabi” trip collections). If chocolate bars are not for you, Maison Cacao also sells “gateau chocolat,” chocolate pudding and cookies too.

Location: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (inside the ticket gates of Gransta Tokyo/Marunouchi North Exit side)
Nearest station: Tokyo (JR Yamanote Line)

So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy some of the finest handmade cacao treats from the local Tokyo chocolate shops above!

Would You Try These Corn Desserts in Tokyo?

Sydney Seekford — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 23:00:00 +0000

With summer in full swing, Tokyo’s dessert scene is heating up with a surprisingly sweet trend: corn desserts. While Japan usually saves roasted sweet potatoes and chestnuts for autumn, this year, corn desserts in Tokyo searches are on the rise as locals and tourists alike look for something seasonal, refreshing, and a little unexpected.

From Korean corn ice bars popping up in Don Quijote coolers to luxe tarts featured on morning television, corny confections have invaded the dessert landscape. Here’s a look at some of this year’s most popular tomorokoshi (corn) treats, with exclusive commentary from chefs near and far.

Corny Koori

Azuki to Koori’s corn kakigoori.

Kakigoori (shaved ice) is a summertime favorite for dessert fans, young and old. This year, in particular, saw some of the most innovative flavors yet, including Azuki to Koori’s nori (dried seaweed) and white chocolate interpretation. However, fluffy mountains of delicate snow topped with creamy corn and roasted kernels stole the spotlight this year. Corn kakigoori was such a hit that it earned its own Instagram hashtag: #とうもろこしかき氷

Uehara Shokudo’s roasted corn kakigori.

We tried an especially outstanding sample at one of Tokyo’s most exclusive kakigoori shops, the recently reopened Uehara Shokudo. Opened in late July, the kakigoori-only spot serves shaved ice that masquerades as fine art…and lunch! The corn edition featured roasted steaks of corn, sweet tomatoes, a side serving of uni, cheese and caramel cream. Hidden beneath impossibly light flakes of snow were more than three distinct varieties of corn in the form of flakes, kernels and cookies, gelée and more.

After opening to wild success (like, lines down the street, public-notice success) Uehara Shokudo closed temporarily to restructure. Now, like many of Tokyo’s other prized desserts, they operate on a reservation-only schedule several times a month. We aren’t sure when the stunning corn kakigoori will make a comeback, but in the meantime, the one-man show has managed a full house every night. If guests are lucky enough, they’ll get to meet and chat with the innovative French-trained chef carving up previous notions of Japan’s favorite icy sweet with gastronomic flair.

Tomorokoshi Tarts

Rad Bros Cafe’s corn basque burnt cheese cake.

Cheesecake is a year-round delight, enjoying new interpretations and fanfare every season. After all, who can deny the sweet creaminess of a thick cheesecake, with its masterful blend of sweet and tart cream cheese and an endless range of flavors? In Koenji, Rad Bros Cafe introduced a perfect pairing of toasted Basque cheesecake and charred sweet corn.

Hachi Cafe’s corn and soy-sauce cream cheesecake tart.

Asagaya’s Hachi Cafe made the morning news with a feature on Mezamashi Terebi of its corn and soy-sauce cream cheesecake tart. A feat of rich whipped cream and sweet-corn cheesecake rests atop barely there baked custard and a shortbread graham crust. One false swipe of the fork and diners risk their tomorokoshi tower tumbling into a heap of sweet kernels and decadent filling. While each layer was divine enough to stand alone, this golden glow of corn took on all new dimensions when devoured in one big bite. We have the corn’s mild, earthy sweetness and rich soy sauce umami to thank for a surprisingly balanced new favorite.

Onibus Coffee’s roasted corn tartlet.

Further afield, the in-house patissier at Jiyugaoka’s Onibus Coffee opened his August tasting menu with an espresso and roasted corn tartlet. A coffee-scented financier, accented with dark chocolate, contrasted in look and flavor with the mild, bright summer corn topping.

Not So Nostalgic Pudding

Osteria Gravino’s corn pudding.

At Osteria Gravino in Kitasando, Chef Otsuzuki takes particular pride in his understated corn pudding. The pudding’s natural flavor, all thanks to some very specifically chosen corn, is mild enough that even less adventurous diners will take comfort in memories of cornbread and creamy chowder. Served by the slice, these delicately sweetened desserts don’t ask for anything over the top from their ingredients.

“There’s actually very little sugar,” he says, “I just work with farmers to pick the sweetest corn depending on the season and landscape.”

This time, the whole menu highlights produce from Nagano, and the chef is excited to serve us on a day when he’s just gotten in a fresh supply of corn. In a reversal of recent times, where showa-era pudding has re-captured our imaginations with nostalgic bitter caramel sauce and silky-smooth custard, Granvino’s chef offers something totally new.

Keeping an ear out for what’s next…

In the midst of global shutdowns, 2021 saw Korean-inspired corn desserts popping up around Tokyo cafes. It seems that two years on, corn’s natural sweetness and mild flavor have caught on across the globe. In kitchens as far as India and America, innovative chefs are adopting corn desserts in more creative adaptations than Cracker Jack and Frosted Flakes, but that doesn’t mean these classics have been forgotten.

When asked where they find inspiration for their creations, chefs had different but overlapping experiences. Chef Otsuzuki recalled having a caramel corn drink and enjoying sweet popcorn, thinking, “I’d like to try using these flavors too.” before the invention of his signature corn pudding.

Part-time Japan resident and food stylist Hadley Sui mentioned that she’d been inspired by popcorn and cornflakes in New York desserts over recent years. She’s seen an increase in preference for less traditional dessert flavors as Japanese classics like chestnut and sweet potato continue to gain popularity. The adoption seems a natural compliment for Japan, fitting in as a summer-time balm for diners tired of super-sweet peach and lemon tartness. It just goes to show that here in Tokyo, or across the world, the influence of corn’s delicious sweetness is winning fans in droves.

So, would you try these corn desserts in Tokyo?