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In a city filled with “hole in the wall” cafes and hidden coffee shops on tiny alley-like streets, it can be hard to find exactly what you’re looking for. If you are like me, you immediately begin to google where the perfect coffee shops are before you travel. After compiling all my coffee shop explorations, I have finally completed my ultimate guide to all things Tokyo coffee shops!
First, there are SO many coffee shops in this ever expanding city. After all, it is the largest in the world, and specialty coffee is making some serious waves. I spent over a year living in Tokyo and much of it was spent loving on all things coffee. Visiting small coffee stands with their artisan slow drip and searching for the perfect latte art were always on the agenda. Simple, beautifully designed interiors, as well as friendly talented baristas are not hard to find in Tokyo coffee shops.
Although I like to think of this as the “ultimate guide” to Tokyo coffee shops, I of course have not been to them all. That is the magic of a large city though, right? With so many neighborhoods each have their own coffee scene it is hard to pick a favorite. Your jetlag will be no match for the coffee that Tokyo supplies. So let’s get started shall we?
The ultimate guide to Tokyo Coffee Shops
Shibuya
First timers to Tokyo will undoubtedly find their way to Shibuya. Known as the “Times Square” of Tokyo and home to the world’s busiest crosswalk – this area is a must when visiting Japan.
About Life Coffee Roasters
This is a great place to grab your first cup of the day before visiting the infamous Shibuya Crossing. The concept of this little stand is to create a place that serves multiple roasters giving people a diverse selection of coffee.
If you are looking coffee stands similar to About Life Coffee Roasters, head on over to my list of Tokyo coffee stands as well!
Streamer Coffee Company
The man behind Streamer Coffee is none other than Hiroshi Sawada, the 2008 Free Pour Latte Art Champion the first Japanese person to do so. That should be all the convincing you need to head to the many locations of Streamer. Streamer has free wifi, an interior suitable for productivity, and yummy treats to accompany your large latte art goodness.
Camelback Sandwich & Espresso
Both espresso and specialty sandwiches all in one, this place shows the work ethic and craft of a Japanese business. Try the classic and simple Prosiciutto and Ooba Leaf sandwich, Chai tea, or coffee. The classic wooden benches outside on a quiet street makes the perfect “escape from the busy city” vibe, with only being a stone throw away from Shibuya crossing.
Fuglen Tokyo
One of my favorite Tokyo establishments (coffee bar by day, cocktail bar by night). I wrote a whole piece on Fuglen Tokyo for you. Put this unique place high on your list for Tokyo Coffee Shops.
Little Nap Coffee Stand
Resting on the outskirts of Yoyogi Park, Little Nap Coffee Stand sits on a quiet street, with bikers and pedestrians often passing by. Small seating on the inside and a few spots outside, this place is the perfect blend of “take away” or sit and read.
Harajuku
Technically within Shibuya (above), Harajuku is where all things color and “Kawaii” collide. Crepes, themed cafes, and cotton candy all create a perfect harmony in this neighborhood. If you need a break from the over the top cafes, try one of these below.
Deus Ex Machina Cafe
Perfect stop in Harajuku if you need a break from Japanese food but still want to keep the good coffee flowing.
Sorama Coffee
Many Tokyo coffee shops have much more than slow drip and coffee drinks – head to Sorama for a delicious Matcha latte if that is more your style!
Mojo Coffee Harajuku
A more low key option among Tokyo Coffee Shops, Mojo has a wonderful environment for meet ups and productivity.
Reissue
This place has gotten major attention and hype (helloooo, 3D lattes) and deserves all the glory. It still remains to feel quaint and “local” when you enter with a retro vibe that will make you feel right at home. This cash-only unique spot will replicate any photo you show the server, in a 3D or 2D form. Have a photo of your pet, a celebrity, or even a portrait of you and your friend ready! Be prepared to add on an extra 400 yen for the latte art, and get your camera ready (as well as you taste buds). The ultimate latte art destination when it comes to Tokyo coffee shops.
Ometesando
Harajuku seamlessly flows into the classy and upscale neighborhood of Ometesando full of luxury shopping. Walk-able to the neighborhoods of Harajuku and Ayoma.
Cafe Kitsune
Beautiful outside scenery with an inside just as spacious and beautiful! From the bamboo wall, to the scrumptious french toast this place will have you returning whether it be in Tokyo, or their other location, Paris.
Shozo Coffee Store
Small, quaint spot to grab coffee. With some seating outside, this place is perfect to take a break from all the walking you will be doing in this area.
Lattest Ometsando
A talented, friendly, and all women crew will be ready to whip up the perfect cup of coffee. I would put this at the top of your Tokyo coffee shops list when you are walking around the Harajuku/Ometsando area. P.S. – Look out for their specialty flavors they are always coming up with, like charcoal lattes!
Ratio & C
If you have a mutual love for coffee and bikes, this place is for you! With a build your own bike shop in the back, cycle accessories and Onibus roasted coffee, it’s the perfect blend for those active coffee drinkers. The interior alone is absolutely gorgeous, and they have areas scattered through the store to sit down and be productive.
Shimokitazawa
If you wish for a more calm Tokyo trip full of sipping coffee and feeling more of a local vibe – head to Shimokitazawa. If you need more than coffee suggestions for your time in this hip neighborhood, I wrote some suggestions in my day guide to Shimokitazawa. After all, it is my favorite Tokyo neighborhood!
Frankie Melbourne Espresso
Frankie’s can serve a mean cup of coffee, delicious cold press juices. AND incredibly appetizing breakfast/lunch sandwiches. Hailing from Australia, this shop serves up picollos and flat whites to your heart’s content. Frankie’s is my favorite place for coffee and breakfast (will be yours too)!
Iron Coffee
Technically a little outside of Shimo, this small coffee stand is set in a low key, quiet street where the owner knows the locals and usuals that hit this spot. If you need two cups of coffee in the morning head to Iron Coffee, where your second drink will be discounted by 100 yen (about a dollar), so double your caffeine here.
Bookends Coffee Service
Small, coffee filled nooks seem to be the theme in Shimo which is more of a reason to sit outside on the quiet urban streets and who would complain! Books, records and Beatles memorabilia hang on the walls as they serve a tasty maple cinnamon latte. Rain or shine, Bookend Coffee Service is always a good place to be.
Ballon D’essai
Easy to miss when walking around, Ballon D’essai can be found in one of the many backstreets. This place really outdoes itself with latte art AND wallart. With local artists’ work hanging on the walls and cuddly designs (just look at that bunny), this place will have coming back for more.
Urban Local Living
With Home Depot hardware hanging on the wall and surfing videos playing, you will instantly see his love for DIY projects, Hawaii, California and of course, coffee. Situated in the heart of Shimokitazawa, he loves when people from all over the world pay him a visit and chat over coffee. You will most likely end up on their instagram page as well. Tokyo coffee stands that serves both DIY products AND coffee? Only in Japan.
On the Way Coffee & Cupcakes
A small shop with a passion for catering the neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, serves both cupcakes and coffee (hence the name)! Shingo Fukuda’s little business may be away from the hub of the neighborhood, but it is a must to get there early for the mini cupcakes as they sell out fast! No matter where you are going it is the perfect place to get your honey soy latte (my recommendation).
Bear Pond Espresso
Open for 8 years, the owner is very passionate about his craft, and it really shows. Most known for “angel stain” (famous espresso, only available till 1pm and limited cups are served) the owner calls it “a gift from Heaven”. Bear Pond stays true to their coffee making ways and is the perfect wake up call for the morning.
Shinjuku
Counterpart Coffee Gallery
A new member among Tokyo coffee shops, the top floor holds vintage couches and the second floor will welcome you will wooden seats looking out to the streets below. The coffee is just as good as the decor, and a small food menu is available. If you are in the Shinjuku area, make sure to stop by.
4/4 Seasons Coffee
Verve Coffee Roasters
After opening numerous successful cafes through out California, Verve has opened two locations in Tokyo, one Shinjuku’s large train station.
Kichijoji
Kichijoji is the perfect neighborhood if you are returning to Tokyo for another trip. Similar to Shimokitazawa, many locals live in this area and is a wonderful break from the tourist madness of Shibuya and Harajuku.
Light Up Coffee
A love for lighter coffee and latte art, this roaster is placed in the heart of Kichijoji with a cozy atmosphere.
Ryumon Coffee Stand
Simple yet delectable – Ryumon serves simple toast and syrup nicely complimented with a delicious latte. Enjoy the city view from the seats on the second floor.
Jiyugaoka
Alpha Beta Coffee Club
NakaMeguro
Onibus Coffee
Onibus is a roaster that is making quite a name for themselves in Tokyo. You can find their coffee in the beautiful cafe of Ratio, as well as About Life mentioned above. The design and coffee is impeccable, and so popular the roaster opened this stand in the Naka-Meguro district, where you will find plenty to do in this trendy neighborhood.
Perch by Woodberry
Woodbery Coffee Roaster’s small shop location in Naka-meguro.
Sidewalk Stand
Another easy to miss coffee stand hidden in the streets of Tokyo. Order the cold bitter orange Americano and thank me later.
Chiyoda (Ginza/Jimbacho/Tsukiji Market)
Glitch Coffee Roaster
Intricate slow drip, and creative roasting process – this place should be on everyone’s radar. If you are off to explore the Jimbocho neighborhood, this would be a great stop as they open early for a Tokyo cafe (7:30am)!
Roar Coffeehouse & Roastery
With their beans roasted in-house, the multi colored latte’s taste and beauty will not disappoint. Stay for their extensive menu of food as well, and half another cup of coffee at a discount.
Turret Coffee
After your day at the Tsukiji Fish Market, make your way to Turret for the perfect wake up call. Pretty sure a double shot of espresso in each latte will do the trick. Walking distance to Roar (above), their latte art is easy on the eyes as well. Named after the vehicles they ride around at the market, Turret’s latte art is detailed and intricate. It may not be the best spot to set up your computer, but it is the perfect place to read a book outside. You will need some time to finish their EXTRA large lattes.
Mighty Steps Coffee
Mighty Steps coffee proves Tokyo coffee shops really can provide anything. Ice cream AND coffee created perfectly for you? Need I say more?
Minato
If you are in this neighborhood checking out the Tokyo Tower and Zojo-ji Temple, I have a few coffee shops for you to swing by as well!
Faith Coffee Company
Although closed when I attempted to visit, it is a great option if you are in this area. Serving their coffee mainly by hand drip, I can only imagine how great it tastes.
Byron Bay Coffee Company
Another member of Tokyo coffee shops that hail from Australia, and one of the few places that serves up an acai bowl with your beverage of choice!
Yanaka
Located in northern Tokyo, this area is the perfect place to feel as if you have stepped back in time to a more traditional era of Japan.
Kayaba Coffee
Opened in 1938, Kayaba coffee is one of the oldest Tokyo coffee shops. This two story cafe often has long waits as it is a staple in the community and loved by many. For a change of pace and more of a traditional feel – head here. Thanks to my friend, fellow blogger and Japan food expert Nano, I was able to experience this unique place!
There are far too many Tokyo coffee shops to see in one visit, but I hope this guide can help you pick and choose. Pin below if you are traveling to Tokyo and feel free to leave a question or comment below or direct message me on instagram!
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PIN The Ultimate Guide to Tokyo coffee shops below!
Best,
Katherine
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