【Tokyo Stroll】The cafe that you want to visit to see someone #5: “café Benisica” – The Birthplace of Pizza Toast
“A café that has continued to be loved for 60 years”
In this entry to my café series, I visited the familiar Yurakucho, the center of modern Tokyo culture. This year, long-standing café Benisica turned 61-years-old. I stopped by to have my fill of their amazing pizza toast. The café is a 2-minute walk from Hibiya Station via Tokyo Metro lines, and 4-minutes on foot from Yurakucho Station via JR lines, making it an easy place to get to.
The café opened all those years ago in response to the large number of cinemas and theatres dotted around Yurakucho. They wanted to create place where people could relax on their way back from seeing a show.
Upon arrival, you can still observe stylish older ladies strolling into the café. The scene hasn’t changed one bit which I found to be wonderful.
Café Benisica is famous for being the birthplace of original pizza toast. They even have a sign at the entrance telling you that! Eye-catching!!!
Without further ado, let’s head on in♪
I take one step into the café, and… Huh? What’s this?!
That’s right. At Benisica, you can enjoy vacuum brewed coffee. This was the first time I had seen a vacuum coffee maker up close, so I gazed at them with a keen interest.
Inside, I gazed at the café décor and objects scattered around of Hibiya, a town which changes with the times. You can feel the weight of the times instore – all the wonderful items look stylish simply by being placed in there! The café interior is a collection of warm colours. It’s a place where you can relax and feel comfortable.
This is Benisica’s famous pizza toast, costing ￥950 (tax included). They have plenty of set menus, and drink menus are ￥1,350. The story behind the pizza toast was how if you didn’t go to an Italian restaurant back then, you couldn’t eat pizza. So, they took pizza and turned it into something you can eat casually – toast. Since then, it has continued to be a much-loved menu item with customers for almost half a century.
After hearing the story, I took no time at all ordering my own pizza toast! To drink, I chose a strawberry shake. Just so you know, the shake doesn’t come in set orders, so be careful.
Thick servings of cheese and put onto chunky slices of toast. “The soul of the pizza toast is in the cheese!” is what you’ll be saying at its presence on the toast. Its generous serving makes this pizza toast suitable not just as a light meal, but even a whole lunch. As well as the standard ingredients like salami, onion and bell peppers, I was happy that there were mushrooms too.
The bread’s texture is fluffy! I was hungry, so I made short work of it. Thank you for the meal.
This is the owner of Benisica, Setsuko Murakami, who told me the story of the café. She’s a very wonderful person who loves her husband very much. Not only did she tell me about the café – I got to hear about her husband’s way of living and thoughts too. The words of people that have walked the road of life longer than me are deep and enlightening.
I stored the owner’s story safely onto the shelves in my heart. The next time something happens, I’ll rely on those special words she graciously taught me and work hard.
■Information
Café Benisica
Address: 1-6-8 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 9:30-23:45 (Open from 9:00 on Weekends & Holidays)
No Fixed Holidays.
Access: 2-minutes on foot from Hibiya Station via the Hibiya Line, Chiyoda Line, and Toei Mita Line / 4-minutes on foot from Yurakucho Station via JR Lines
Model : Ema Tanioku
Profile: “Emaeri” is the nickname for models Ema and Eri Tanioku, who are Aomoji fashion model twins. Ema and Eri Tanioku specialise in twin fashion coordination. Over the years their fanbase has increased due to their cute looks. Ema Tanioku spreads Harajuku culture within Japan as well as overseas and works as a Harajuku Tourism Ambassador. Starting off as a model, Ema has broadened her talent range from fashion magazines to TV, and from playing the lead role in dramas to movies.
Instagram：@ematanioku
Photographer：Haruka Yamamoto
Editor&Writer：Ryoichi Komaba
Design:Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)
Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga
RECOMMENDED ENTRIES
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【Tokyo Stroll】 The café that you want to visit to see someone #4 Cats working at Shinjuku-sanchome’s Café Arles
“Good service, a jolly owner and cute cats – this café is sure to heal you!”
I’m Ema Tanioku and today I’ll be introducing you to yet another café in Tokyo as the fourth edition of my series “The café that you want to visit to see someone”. Today I’ll be reporting about my visit to Café Arles which can be found at Shinjuku-sanchome. Ever since hearing that there were cats at this café, I’ve been set on going 〜♪♪
The café is very easy to access. To get to there, you can take the Toei Shinjuku line to Shinjuku-sanchome. From here, you can get to the café within a five-minute walk. Walking around the Shinjuku Suehirote theatre, the café soon came into sight. Somehow, I could sense the presence of cats just from the atmosphere…
There it was! The entrance to the café was decorated with many ornaments of cats and dogs. I don’ know why but I was filled with excitement before even having entered.
As soon as I entered, I immediately spotted a cat.
I was then greeted by the cat’s master who had a sweeping grin across his face and was wearing a hat with a cat broach. I could really feel his love for cats ♪♪
I took a sweeping glance over the café – cats, cats and more cats – there were so many cat-themed goods everywhere! Apart from cats goods, the master also collects clown goods and displayed everything all huddled together to decorate the café.
Although this was my first time at Café Arles, I immediately felt right at home as a warm feeling grew within me. I asked the master what got him into the café business and I was surprised by his response. It all started when the master was working at a mahjong parlour, where a person they knew asked them to start up a café.
The master then thought about the numerous paintings he had collected and how he was in search of a place to display them. The idea of choosing his own music, menu and decorating a café interior to his own taste really struck a chord with him.
There are many paintings displayed in the café. Amongst these are some by modern artist Tomomi Kondo, who made the paintings “please your master” and “cool your thighs”, which feature the kaban neko (café cats) Ishimatsu and Jirocho, who are “working hard” by lazing around.
Café Arles is fun and draws in even more fun. The atmosphere is filled with the love and enjoyment of the customers. That’s why I immediately felt so at home as soon as I entered. You can easily spend a long time here.
I asked the master what he recommends from his menu. His response? “My recommendation is what you want to eat the most!” he said wisely. I felt like eating Napolitan spaghetti and so that is what I ordered! (Price: ￥720 including tax)
It came with banana and giant corn ❤ – this excellent service made me so happy!
The gentle flavour of this homemade dish was delicious and I could really taste the Showa-retro Napolitan flavour to it. The drink, soup and salad services available gives this meal a perfect score for portion size satisfaction!
The master allowed me to take his café cat Jirocho-kun out for a walk. This was the first time I’d ever walked a cat – a new, fresh experience!
Jirocho-kun is a very calm and obedient cat, so we had a lovely stroll together. Speaking of which, Jirocho-kun loves his owner so much that he runs to meet him whenever he hears his car pull up at the shop.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the café. “I enjoyed every minute of it” explained the master happily. The master created a place where everyone can be happy and in return everyone supports him. Perhaps this cycle is the motivational force that has kept and will continue to push this café to live and thrive.
I’m glad I came to this café today and met such a special person.
I want to come here again and have another chat with the master!
■Information
Cafe Arles
Address：1st floor, 5-10-8, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Opening h0urs: 11:30 〜 22：00
Regular holidays days: Sundays, New Year’s period holiday period
Access：398 metres from Shinjuku Sanchome station (reach via Toei-Shinjuku line/ Tokyo Metro Marunouchi line
URL：https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13087540/
Model & Writer: Ema Tanioku
Profile: “Emaeri” is the nickname for models Ema and Eri Tanioku, who are Aomoji fashion model twins. Ema and Eri Tanioku specialise in twin fashion coordination. Over the years their fanbase has increased due to their cute looks. Ema Tanioku spreads Harajuku culture within Japan as well as overseas and works as a Harajuku Tourism Ambassador. Starting off as a model, Ema has broadened her talent range from fashion magazines to TV, and from playing the lead role in dramas to movies.
Instagram：@ematanioku
Photographer：Haruka Yamamoto
Editor：Ryoichi Komaba
Design:Yuko Abe (ASOBISYSTEM)
Translated by: Samantha Fernandes
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The objective of going to a Japanese “kissaten” (tea/coffee house) or a “cafe” is basically the same – to go to drink a cup of tea or a cup of coffee. However, there is something different. In Japanese “kissatens” of course, they are particular about how their tea and coffee tastes, but they also pay particular attention to the eating and drinking utensils and the décor of the shop. They often have a very retro and Showa Era feel to them. “Kissatens” in Japan have been in business for a long period of time and so they have a very down to earth and comfortable atmosphere. Here, we are highlighting eight such “kissatens” in Tokyo.
1.“Nanatsu no mori” in Koenji
From the outside, it looks like a Showa, retro-style coffee shop. Upon entering, you can see the interior of the café has weathered. It has an atmosphere reminiscent of the Showa era, like you’ve just stepped back in time. Inside, is filled with Showa era ornaments and goods. The highly recommended menu item is “Omu gohan” (rice omelet). The flavor of the rice is not ketchup but rather Japanese broth. The rice was mixed with beef, burdock, and enoki mushrooms, as well as a salty-sweet seasoning that tasted like shigureni.
Time passes slowly and restfully at “Nanatsumori,” with its retro atmosphere. You can spend a happy time here surrounded by the shop’s gorgeous interior that makes it seem as if you’ve stepped back in time.
Detailed information:【Tokyo Stroll】The cafe that you want to visit to see someone #2 “Nanatsumori”—An Attractive Cafe in Kōenji
■Information
Nanatsumori
Address: 2 Chome-20-20 Kōenjiminami, Suginami, Tokyo
Business Hours: 10:30-24:00 (Last orders at 23:30)
Holidays: None
Access: 3-minutes’ walk from Shin-Kōenji Station / 7-minutes’ walk from Kōenji Station
2.“Sabouru” in Jinbocho
“Sabouru” is a café we could say is a representative retro cafe. This 62 years historical café was established in 1955. The shop is multi-floored, first floor, semi basement and mezzanine inside. It is a little dark inside, but you can still enjoy reading books.
Sabouru’s most popular menu item is Spaghetti Neapolitan. It is cooked with many ingredients including mushrooms, onions and bacon. It is cooked quite simply with ketchup.
Detailed information:【Tokyo Stroll】The cafe that you want to visit to see someone #1 The popular cafe in Jinbo-cho called “Sabouru” that has retro interior and nostalgic food.
■Information
Sabouru
Address：1-11 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Hours：9:00AM to 11:00PM
Holiday：Sundays ＆ Holiday Irregular
Access:
0 minutes’ walk from A7 exit of Jimbocho train station, Toei Subway Shinjuku Line • Mita Line
0 minutes’ walk from A7 exit of Jimbocho train station, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line.
3. “Kissa Housekibako” in Chitose Karasuyama
Here is a shop which displays items related to the 1970s and 1980’s pop idols. Many girls from all over Japan come here to get “drinkable jewelry.” It is a space which overflows with nostalgic items from this time.
The most popular item on the menu here is their “drinkable jewelry” as known as “cream soda” which was everyone’s favorite food when they are little. The standard color of cream soda is supposed to be green, but the ones in “Kissa Housekibako” appear in very girly colors. They are offered in cute and shiny spring colors. This shop is popular not only with Japanese guests but also with tourists from abroad.
Detailed information:【Tokyo Cafe】Visit the café which has a menu that gives you great impact Vol,6 “Kissa Housekibako”
■Information
Kissa Housekibako
Address：4-18-18 Oyama Mansion102, Minorakuyama Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
Tel：03-5969-8577
Hours：10:00AM to 6:30PM
4.“Kissa You” in Ginza
“Kissa You” which is located in Ginza, next to Kabukiza has been making kabuki actors’ stomach full for the last forty-seven years. “Kissa You” which is located next to Kabukiza is now a part of the Kabukiza scene. Many gourmet actors who crave for the food in this café are always waiting in line before the café opens. The main reason why most people come here is to order their “soft and melty omelet-rice” which represents Japanese food nowadays.
It is a very good combination of creamy and rich tasting omelet and simply cooked rice. You can hardly encounter this type of omelet-rice which is so smooth and light in texture. In one word it could be described as being like a “soup.”
Detailed information:【Tokyo cafe】Visit the café which has a menu that gives you great impact Volume5 Ginza”You”
■Information
Kissa You
Address: Takano Build. 1F 4-13-17 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 (meal start time 11:30~) ~ 21:00 (L.O. 20:00)
Holiday: none
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Ginza is a district in Tokyo lined with sophisticated stores and countless shopping spots. It’s a famous town for not only delivering Western style cuisine and fashion, but for continuing to hand down Japanese tradition from Kabuki-za to Tsukiji. We have compiled a list of recommended spots to visit during your trip to Ginza.
Tokyu Plaza
If it’s Japanese souvenirs and mementos you’re looking for then Tokyu Plaza is a very location. This shopping complex is filled with shops and famous brands selling items made in Japan, from “SAKE LABO” where shelves are lined with Japanese alcohol, to stores selling traditional Japanese crafts. You should also check out the duty free “LOTTE DUTY FREE GINZA” on the 8F and 9F.
■Information
Tokyu Plaza
Address: 5-2-1 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Telephone: 03-3571-0109
Homepage: http://ginza.tokyu-plaza.com
UNIQLO
UNIQLO has branched out and made its name around the globe now, but the Ginza branch is the world’s biggest, boasting a staggering 12 floors. There are English, French, Spanish, Chinese and Korean speaking staff there, so you can enjoy your shopping free of worry.
■Information
UNIQLO (Ginza Branch)
Address: Ginza Komatsu 1F-12F, 6-9-5 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Open: 11:00-21:00
Telephone: 03-6252-5181
Webpage: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/store_news/store.php?poi=10101397
Dover Street Market
Dover Street Market is a cutting-edge store that was first brought to London by Comme des Garçons founder Rei Kawabuko. Ginza now has its own branch in “ZOZOTOWN” and towers 6 floors lined with an array of brands from LOUIS VUITTON to Celine, Thom Browne, and even Comme des Garçons themselves.
■Information
Dover Street Market
Address: 6-9-5 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Open: 11:00-20:00
Telephone: 03-6228-5080
Homepage: http://ginza.doverstreetmarket.com
GINZA SIX
GINZA SIX recently opened on April 20th earlier this year as Ginza’s biggest shopping complex. The building is elegantly dotted with 241 individual stores both domestic and international offering a range of cuisines, fashion and lifestyle brands and more. It’s a fantastic spot for overseas visitors who can also enjoy seeing a traditional Noh performance and gazing at Ginza’s gorgeous scenery from the rooftop.
More Information: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/39111
■Information
GINZA SIX
Address: 6-10-1 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Opening Hours: Shops – 10:30-20:30 / Restaurants – 11:00-23:30
*Select shops have different opening and closing hours.
Telehone: 03-6891-3390
Homepage: https://ginza6.tokyo/
Kabuki-za
Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theatre with a history spanning more than 400 years. One location still thriving is the Kabukiza Theatre in Ginza. If you purchase a copy of a play’s outline there’s an English explanation at the end along with an English subtitle guide. If you want to enjoy a short session of kabuki then you can purchase a special ticket called “hitomakumiseki” (一幕見席) that enables you to see just one part of the play, since kabuki plays tend to be quite long.
■Information
Kabukiza
Address: 4-12-15 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo
Telephone: 03-3545-6800
Website: http://www.kabuki-za.co.jp
Tsukiji Fish Market
The Tsukiji Fish Market is the kitchen of Tokyo. Out of all 11 wholesale markets in Chuo, Tokyo the Tsukiji Fish Market is the oldest. It’s a hugely popular tourist spot for its fresh seafood and souvenirs. There’s plenty to see including the famous Tuna Auction as well as a chance to experience making nigiri sushi.
■Information
Tsukiji Fish Market
Address: 5-2-1 Tsukiji, Chuo, Tokyo
Telephone: 03-3542-1111
Homepage: http://www.tsukiji.or.jp
Hibiya Park
If you’re exhausted from all the shopping and sightseeing then we recommend stopping by Hibiya Park just a 10-minute walk from Ginza. The park was made more than 100 years ago and is home to two outdoor music domes – one big and one small – as well as a public hall and more. There are also flower beds bloomed with various flowers that change with the seasons. There’s also a Japanese-style garden tucked away in the park where you can experience a Japanese aesthetic.
■Information
Hibiya Park
Address: Hibiya Park, Chiyoda
Open: 24 hours, 365 days a year.
*The service centre and other establishments in the park will be closed during New Year’s.
*Please contact the service centre for business hours and further information.
Telephone: 03-3501-6428
Webpage: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/index037.html
We hope you liked our recommendations and hope you enjoy your Ginza sightseeing to the very fullest.
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How about some pancakes during your shopping spree! 7 recommended cafes which sell pancakes in Ginza
There must be many people who want to eat something sweet after enjoying shopping in the Ginza.
In this article, I will introduce to you some recommended pancake shops in Ginza.
Shiawase no Pancake Ginza Shop
This pancake shop located in Omotesando, Tokyo which always has long waiting lines, will open a new store in Ginza on the 23rd of December 2017. The shop is located in front of the A5 Exit of Tokyo Metro Ginza Line’s Gina Station. The décor inside the shop has a relaxing atmosphere. They have an open kitchen in front of the shop so that customers can observe the cooking process. It will no doubt be exciting to seeing the making process of their pancakes.
■Information
Shiawase no Pancake Ginza Shop
Address: 5-8-5, Ginza, Chuoku, Tokyo – 7F, New Ginza Building 10th Building
Business hours: weekdays 10:00 to 20:00 (L.O. 19:15) / Saturday, Sunday and holidays 10:00 to 20:30 (L.O. 19:40)
Fixed holiday: random
TEL：03-6255-1111
Yukino Shita Ginza
Yukino Shita is a shop which uses strictly selected ingredients and makes hand-made pancakes. The sweet scent of the pancakes and the scent of coffee fills the natural-styled interior of the shop. Their popular pancake, “Yotsuba Cream Cheese Jikasei Rennyu (home-made condensed milk) Ice wo Soete” is a simple pancake without any topping so you can taste the rich texture of the dough. The coffees they offer goes well with their pancakes.
■Information
Yukinoshita Ginza
Address: 3F, Tomato Building, 1-20-10, Ginza, Chuoku, Tokyo
Business hours: Tuesday to Friday / 11:00 to 21:00 (L.O. 20:20), Saturday / Sunday and holidays 11:00 to 19:00 (L.O. 18:20)
TEL：070-5517-9506
Eggs ‘n Things Ginza Shop
You can enjoy some “old-fashioned” pancakes topped with lots of raw cream inside this open-air, bright shop. Sitting on their terrace on a warm day is recommended. The pancake is not too sweet although it uses lots of raw cream and is recommended for women. You can enjoy eating at this shop since they sell a la carte breakfast/lunch menus and dinner menus (from 18:00).
■Information
Eggs ‘n Things Ginza Shop
Address: 4F, Kiraritoginza, 1-8-19, Ginza, Chuoku, Tokyo
Business hours: 9:00 to 23:00 (L.O. 22:00)
Fixed holiday: None
TEL：03-6264-4949
DAVID MYERS CAFÉ
This café introduces Californian-style, body/environment-friendly menu items. You can enjoy a dessert which uses wheat flour produced in Hokkaido with bananas and bitter caramel sauce put on top of a soft dough. It is a thick-flavored pancake using caramel sauce with the scent of bourbon and fresh bananas. This pancake is recommended for women.
■Information
DAVID MYERS CAFÉ
Address: 6F, Ginza Mitsukoshi, 4-6-16, Ginza, Chuoku, Tokyo
Business hours: 10:30 to 20:00 (L.O. 19:30)
TEL：03-3561-7052
URL：
http://www.ginzadining.com/restaurant/detail/davidmyers/index.html
MOKUOLA DexeeDinerUILANI
This shop has a Hawaiian atmosphere and their standard menu pancakes use lots of yoghurt inside the dough. Their crispy pancakes are created by pouring the dough into a frypan and then baking it in an oven for a long period of time.
■Information
MOKUOLA DexeeDinerUILANI
Address: 8F, Yurakucho Marui, 2-7-1, Yurakucho, Chiyodaku, Tokyo
Business hours: Monday to Saturday 11:00 to 21:00, Sunday and holidays 10:30 to 20:30
Fixed holiday: randam
TEL：03-6269-9554
café & books bibliotheque
They sell more than 10 kinds of home-made desserts and their most popular item is their pancakes which are very healthy since they use yoghurt. You can put lightly bitter coffee sauce on top of the pancake which has a topping of tiramisu cream made with mascarpone and cream cheese, so the product is recommended for those of you who are not familiar to sweet desserts.
■Information
café & books bibliotheque
Address: 3F, LUMINE, LUMINE Yurakuchoten, 2-5-1, Yurakucho, Chiyodaku, Tokyo
Business hours: weekdays 11:00 to 21:30 (L.O. 21:00), Saturday, Sunday and holudays 11:00 to 21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Fixed holiday: None
TEL：03-5222-1566
Ginza Coffee Shop Ginza Sukiyabashi Shop
A coffee shop located on the second floor of the building where BIGECHO is located. The building is located at the Sukiyabashi Intersection. The interior of the shop is chic with stylish decorations so this shop is recommended for not only women but also men. Their original maple butter pancake is very soft although the dough is thin so that customers can enjoy a unique texture.
■Information
Ginza Coffee Shop, Ginza Sukiyabashi Shop
Address: 2F Ginza Building, 4-2-14, Ginza, Chuoku, Tokyo
Business hours: Monday to Friday 11:00 to 23:00, lunchtime 11:00 to 16:00, Saturday, Sunday and holidays 10:00 to 23:00, lunch time 10:00 to 16:00
Fixed holiday: None
TEL： 03-3562-7232
URL：http://www.clubdam.com/dkdining/shop/ginza_coffee/index.html
How did you like our introduction to some cafes and shops which sell wonderful pancakes. Why not relax and enjoy some pancakes in the Ginza area.
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While shopping complexes such as Tokyu Plaza and GINZA SIX are on the rise, Ginza itself is a city that has been bustling with energy for a long time. It’s packed full of traditional and new shops and brings in people from all ages, young and old, and prides itself as the place to go during everyone’s days off. In this article we want to introduce to you some highly recommended shops and restaurants in Ginza.
Soft and “melty” omelet-rice “Kissa You”
“Kissa You” is located in Ginza, famous for Kabuki. The main reason most people come here is the soft and “melty“ omelet-rice which represents Japanese food nowadays.
You can hardly encounter this type of omelet-rice which is this smooth and light in texture. I recommend you drink “Kobu-tea” after the meal as the “Japanese way.”
Related article：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/34449
■Information
Kissa You
Address： Ginza 4-13-17 Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00(food order 11:30)～21:00(L.O.20:00)
Holiday：New Year’s holiday
TEL：03-6226-0482
A wonderful meat cutlet burger at “Ginza Sato”
“Ginza Sato” is famous for a circular “meat cutlet burger”. They are offering an “original meat cutlet” from Kichijoji, dipped in special sauce then made into a burger.
They make only 50 of these burgers a day. (￥380 for one) You can choose either a sweet or spicy sauce. You can enjoy the meat juice on a very soft bun.
Related article：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/37898
■Information
Ginza Sato
Address： Ginza 1−14−1 Chuo-ku Tokyo
Opening period：11:00〜
Holiday：Sunday / public holiday
If you want to try one of Japan’s “soul foods” go to “Kommeraku”
Dashi Chazuke (rice in soup stock) is one of Japan’s soul foods. It is an easy and simple meal, but the soup or tea in this dish is sure to warm you up.
Komeraku’s set menu includes either soup and rice ball or rice in the soup stock and rice bowl. You can get the soup and rice ball set as a takeout. Just one mouthful of this dish and your whole body will be warmed. If you want to enjoy Japanese food in Ginza, you should go to “Komeraku.”
Related article：http://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/26438
■Information
Komeraku
Address： Ginza 5-2-1 Chuo-ku Tokyo, Tokyu Plaza Ginza B2F
Hours: 11:00～23:00（L.O.22:00）
TEL：03-6264-5222
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TZEN, a company dedicated to promoting traditional Japanese culture around the world, has teamed up with Yamamasa Koyamaen, a tea wholesaler in business since the Edo period, to open a new matcha cafe in Tokyo!
ATELIER MATCHA, a quick walk from Ningyocho station, is harnessing the concept of ‘the third wave of matcha,’ serving up premium matcha in a cozy atmosphere.
MATCHA Cookies & Cream Shake: ¥748 (Tax Included)
MATCHA with Warabimochi and Red Bean Topping: ¥748 (Tax Included)
MATCHA Jelly Cider: ¥660 (Tax Included)
MATCHA Granola and Yogurt Latte: ¥715 (Tax Included)
MATCHA Cotton Candy Milkshake: ¥748 (Tax Included)
MATCHA Affogato: ¥660 (Tax Included)
MATCHA Shot (Espresso Style): ¥220 (Tax Included) / MATCHA Water: ¥275 (Tax Included) / MATCHA Green Tea: ¥330 (Tax Included)
Supreme MATCHA Terrine: ¥660 (Tax Included)
(This is a partial menu, all prices are for those dining in.)
Matcha is becoming popular around the world. ATELIER MATCHA was created to offer customers a unique experience which showcases the true taste and culture of this beloved tea grown in Japan.
Yamamasa Koyamaen is a Kyoto institution, cultivating and grinding matcha tea leaves for 160 years. Over 1,000 tea retailers, department stores, domestic and international trading companies and hotels stock their high-grade matcha, gyokuro, sencha, and other specialty teas, making them one of the most recognized and respected names in this traditional Japanese art. The company even prefers to call themselves a ‘studio’ rather than a ‘factory’, using the 800-year history of tea cultivation in Uji, Kyoto as a starting point to create their masterpieces.
ATELIER MATCHA is Yamamasa Koyamaen’s first cafe, and also the company’s first experience selling directly to consumers.
Blending the highest-grade matcha with locally made sweets, the cafe hopes customers will enjoy these original creations while surrounded by the relaxing aroma of tea.
The matcha used in the cafe includes signature Yamamasa Koyamaen blends, including Ogurayama and Tennozan, both varieties often used in tea ceremonies. For a limited time, the cafe is offering a single-origin blend with one rare variety of matcha, as well as a beverage made with tencha, which are the leaves used to make matcha before being ground down in a stone mortar. Visitors can also enjoy gyokuro and hojicha teas, made from carefully selected leaves.
Pulling recipes from Yamamasa Koyamaen’s book ‘Kyoto Uji-Koyamaen: Simple Matcha Drinks to Enjoy at Home,’ the menu features refreshing drinks blending the traditional with the modern, with unexpected combinations of soda, fruit and yogurt. Seasonal drinks will also be making an appearance, including shaved ice in summer and chocolate drinks in winter.
The name MATCHA SHOT packs a punch, using matcha instead of espresso for a needed pick-me-up. MATCHA WATER, a refreshing cup of watered-down tea, offers a way to fully enjoy the fullness and more hidden flavors of this popular Japanese tea.
As expected, ATELIER MATCHA also has a sweets menu set to impress: these sweet treats feature only the best, created with the top 0.03% of total national matcha production. This insanely high-quality matcha is a part of Yamamasa Koyamaen’s ultimate matcha experience project, titled “ALL FOR ONE,” which provides these rare leaves to some of the country’s top professionals in various fields.
At opening, only limited qualities of the Supreme MATCHA Terrine, made by well-known pâtissier Toshi Yoroizuka, will be available.
These authentic matcha creations are perfect for a hot summer’s day, or as a gift for a friend. When in Tokyo, don’t miss it!
Information
ATELIER MATCHA
Address: 1-5-8 Nihonbashi Ningyocho, Chuo Ward, Tokyo 103-0013, Japan
Access: 30-second walk from Ningyocho Station/5-minute walk from Suitengumae Station
Open Date: August 2, 8:00
Hours of Operation: 8:00-19:00 (Last order 18:30)
Closed on Tuesdays (Open daily throughout August)
Phone Number: 03-3667-7277
Official Site: https://ateliermatcha.com/
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As part of their AniCook project which gets people to enjoy anime through cooking, CookpadTV have announced that the 7th series they are collaborating with is Pretty Boy Detective Club. The collaboration includes a food menu inspired by the series that will be served on the 5th floor of Shinsaibashi PARCO in Osaka from August 19 to September 5.
Food
Trump Demi Hamburger / Hagoita Chirashi Chahan
Desserts
Starry Sky Cream Pancakes / Yubiwa Academy Middle School Gateau Chocolate / Auditorium Cheesecake
Drinks
Manabu’s Assam Blue Moon Tea / Nagahiro’s English Breakfast Sesame Tea / Michiru’s Earl Grey Acerola Tea / Hyota’s Ceylon Mango Tea / Sosaku’s Darjeeling Hazelnut Tea
Get 1 of 5 stickers with every food and dessert order, and 1 of 5 postcards when ordering a drink
Exclusive merchandise
Acrylic Stands | 5 Designs
Acrylic Keyrings | 5 Designs
Acrylic Coasters | 5 Designs
Pins | 5 Designs
The dishes and drinks on the menu were created to get people enjoying food more. The cafe is also selling a range of exclusive merchandise both at the cafe and online.
Information
cookpadLive cafe x Pretty Boy Detective Club
Running: August 19, 2021 – September 5, 2021
Location: Shinsaibashi PARCO Floor 5F, 1-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Opening Hours: 11:00-21:00
Table Reservations: https://cookpadlive.cafe/collabo8 *Priority for reservations
CookpadTV Online Shop: https://cookpadtv.stores.jp/CookpadTV Official Website: https://www.cookpad.tv/
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Animate Cafe Stand Hareza Ikebukuro has announced a collaboration with the ongoing TV anime series Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan which will see the cafe served up a themed menu, sell exclusive merchandise, and decorate the interior with original illustrations from August 25 to September 27.
Animate Cafe exclusive illustrations
Animate Cafe exclusive chibi illustrations
Collab Menu (Excerpt)
Parfait | ¥700 (Tax Included)
Latte | ¥600 (Tax Included)
Soda | ¥650 (Tax Included)
Original Merchandise
Big Acrylic Stand Keyrings | 3 Designs | ¥1,600 Each (Tax Included)
Cookies | ¥1,000 (Tax Included)
Acrylic Stand Keyrings | 6 Designs | ¥700 (Tax Included)
Rubber Keyrings | 10 Designs | ¥700 Each (Tax Included)
Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan is a dark comedy manga series by Gaku Kuze that’s been serialised in Comic POOL since 2017. An anime adaptation began airing on July 6, 2021.
(Ｃ)久世岳・一迅社／「うらみちお兄さん」製作委員会
Information
Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan x Animate Cafe
Running: August 25, 2021 – September 27, 2021Location: Animate Cafe Stand Hareza Ikebukuro
Booking Window: August 25, 2021 – August 29, 2021 (Online Booking)
*Booking not required from August 30 onwards
Details: https://cafe.animate.co.jp/event/uramichi-anime2108/
Animate Cafe Official Website: https://cafe.animate.co.jp/
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Lifestyle brand ‘studio CLIP’ is collaborating with children’s author Dick Bruna’s popular character Miff with a cute merchandise collection that’s set to drop at all studio CLIP branches in Japan and the online webstore .st on August 1.
The Line-Up
Limited-edition shopping bags
Fruit Soda & Soft Serve Ice Cream Parfait
studio CLIP collaborates with Miffy every year, and this year is no different, with a special line-up of character goods themed on friends and family. Boris makes an appearance this time too. Items include hand gel holders, vinyl umbrellas, tote bags, and more. There’s also exclusive shopping bags for Miffy fans who buy any of the collab merch, as well as themed drinks and desserts at studio CLIP CAFE.
Information
studio CLIP x Miffy
Release Date: August 1, 2021
Locations: studio CLIP / studio CLIP Webstore
Webstore: http://www.dot-st.com/studioclip/
Cafe
Running: August 1, 2021 until sold out
Location: 3 studio CLIP CAFE branches (Grand Tree Musashikosugi/Yume Town Hiroshima/Yume Town Hikarinomori)
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Bubble tea shop XIE XIE PEARL is collaborating with San-X and their popular corner-dwelling characters Sumikko Gurashi with a line-up of drinks and merch until August 23.
Fruit is the theme of the collaboration which arrives in a line-up of colourful beverages served in limited-time cups. Each character’s drink is loaded with toppings.
Shirokuma’s Peach Milk | ¥756 (Tax Included)
Neko’s Jewel Berry Lemonade | ¥756 (Tax Included)
Tonkatsu’s Caramel Banana Milk | ¥756 (Tax Included)
Penguin’s Jewel Mint Lemonade | ¥756 (Tax Included)
Original collab goods
Large Stickers | 4 Designs | ¥330 (Tax Included)
Mini Tote Bag | ¥990(Tax Included)
Mirrors | 5 Designs | ¥550 (Tax Included)
Re-release of previous collab merch
Free novelty stickers and pouch
If you order one of the collab drinks you’ll receive a free sticker, and if you order all four drinks, you get an original Sumikko Gurashi pouch. All you need is your receipt to show at the register.
©︎2021 San-X Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Information
XIE XIE PEARL x Sumikko Gurashi
Running: July 22, 2021 – August 23, 2021
Official Website: https://www.krg-inc.com
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AWESOME STORE & CAFE IKEBUKURO is now serving up two new summer-exclusive dessert drinks inspired by the Japanese Showa era. The ‘Imitation Gold’ and ‘Blue Light Awesome’ are both available now until September 26.
Imitation Gold: ¥467 (Tax Included) / Blue Light Awesome: ¥467 (Tax Included) *both served in plastic cups (see below)The Imitation Gold’s flavour is reminiscent of an energy drink. It’s topped with vanilla ice cream and colourful gummies. The Blue Light Awesome is a Blue Hawaiian syrup-infused pineapple juice topped with vanilla ice cream and a cherry. Both of these cute dessert drinks are the perfect refreshments for the summer.
Those who buy both drinks will also receive an original black straw to make the drinks even more Instagrammable. These are available while supplies last.
Some other popular must-tries
Other classics on the menu to try include soft and chewy bagels, coffees, and more.
Chocolate High | ¥396 (Tax Included)
Ebi Avocado | ¥396 (Tax Included)
Fuwa Toro Bacon Omelette | ¥396 (Tax Included)
AWESOME Organic Coffee (Hot/Iced) | From ¥217 (Tax Included)
Information
AWESOME STORE & CAFE IKEBUKURO
Opening Hours: 10:00-21:00 (Currently operating on reduced hours – closes at 20:00)
TEL: 03-5944-9754
Address: Q Plaza IKEBUKURO 1F, 1-30-3 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Official Website: https://www.awesomestore.jp/store/pages/cafe.aspx -
Key Coffee has recreated its coffee from 1920’s when the cafe chain first opened. Named the Yokohama 1920 Founding Blend, the coffee was released on July 20 and will be available at their 54 branches up and down Japan until August 24, the same date when the coffee shop first opened.
Yokohama 1920 Founding Blend
A picture of Key Coffee’s Yokohama branch in 1936 when it was known as Kimura Coffee
Retro Showa-style espresso con panna
Milk Brûlée
Yokohama 1920 Founding Blend recreates the same flavour of coffee that the cafe served in 1920 when it first opened in Yokohama, an area bustling with restaurants serving both Asian and Western cuisine. It uses Brazilian coffee beans at its base, a type which was circulated a lot at the time. It has a distinct sweet fragrance and goes well with milk and sugar.
Back them, coffee was a commodity yearned for by the people of Japan. After releasing their hit coffee syrup in 1921, Key Coffee began serving coffee in a way that was simple, tasty, and accessible to everyone such as drip coffee and their Noi coffee-making series. In the 1930’s their products began to line the shelves of department stores as they began to develop as a spearhead for the emergence of coffee culture in Japan. They also began selling TOARCO TORAJA in 1978, a highly-regarded premium coffee. Today, the chain continues to be a hub for coffee lovers, and is creating new coffees and techniques.
Japan has been a boom in junkissa in recent years, a classic cafe which blends the atmosphere of the Meiji and Showa periods. Key Coffee is showcasing two coffees on their recipe page which capture this flair including an espresso con panna and milk brûlée.
Information
Yokohama 1920 Founding Blend
Running: July 20, 2021 – August 24, 2021Price: ¥648 (Tax Included) / 100
Recipe Page: https://www.keycoffee.co.jp/store/direct/2021foundedblend_recipeOfficial Website: https://www.keycoffee.co.jp/
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The BT21 Cafe is set to see its 9th run in Japan when six of them begin opening in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, and Okinawa from July 22. The theme this time around is “MY LITTLE BUDDY.”
Main Visual
Uchiwa Fans (7 Designs) / Coasters (8 Designs)
Customers who book a table in advance will receive a free fan, and if they buy a drink, a free coaster.
The Menu
KOYA Gapao Rice | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
RJ Omelette Stew | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
SHOOKY Loco Moco Don | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
MANG Coconut Green Curry | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
CHIMMY Chicken Over Rice | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
TATA Bibimbap | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
COOKY Sushi Bowl | ¥1,870 (Tax Included)
Parfaits (Mango/Melon/Grapefruit) | ¥1,540 (Tax Included)
Mini Parfaits | ¥550 (Tax Included)
Milk Drinks (Strawberry/Mango/Blueberry) | ¥990 (Tax Included)
Shuwa Shuwa Fruit Tea | ¥990 (Tax Included)
Fuwamoko Latte | ¥990 (Tax Included)
Original Merchandise
Pins | ¥660 (Tax Included)
Acrylic Keyrings | ¥770 (Tax Included)
Folders ¥440 (Tax Included) / Clear Pouches ¥1,320 (Tax Included)
Pin Case | ¥1,320 (Tax Included)
Stickers ¥770 (Tax Included) / Acrylic Coasters ¥1,320 (Tax Included)
Milk Caramels | ¥1,080 (Tax Included)
The menu line-up is based on Asian cuisine and features cute dishes, drinks, and dessert combined with the BT21 characters. There’s also a collection of exclusive merchandise for fans to get their hands on.
©BT21
Information
BT21 Cafe 9th Run ~MY LITTLE BUDDY~
Tokyo Cafe ①Address: TOKYO BOX cafe&space Omotesando Hills (4-12-10, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo)
Running: July 22, 2021 – August 29, 2021
Tokyo Cafe ②Address: BOX cafe&space Lumine EST (3-38-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
Running: July 22, 2021 – August 22, 2021
Yokohama CafeAddress: Collabo_Index Lumine Yokohama (2-16-1 Takashima, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa)
Running: July 22, 2021 – August 29, 2021
Nagoya Cafe
Address: Address: Nagoya Box Cafe&Space (B1F LACHIC, 3-6-1 Sakae, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture)
Running: August 26, 2021 – September 26, 2021
Osaka Cafe
Address: kawara CAFE＆DINING Shinsaibashi (Shinsaibashi OPA 9F, 1-4-3 Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo-ku, Osaka)
Running: July 29, 2021 – August 29, 2021
Okinawa Cafe
Address: OKINAWA BOX cafe&space (Naha OPA 2F, 1-20-1 Izumizaki, Naha, Okinawa)
Running: July 22, 2021 – August 29, 2021
Table Bookings
Price: ¥715 (Tax Included) *Includes freebieCafe Website: https://2021-1.box-cafe.jp/
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In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, two Harry Potter Cafes are set to run for a limited time in Tokyo and Nagoya from July 22 and 23 respectively, serving magical food, drink, and dessert straight from the wizarding world.
Freebies for customers who dine at the cafe or spend a certain amount on merchandise
Gryffindor OBENTO BOX
Slytherin OBENTO BOX / Hufflepuff OBENTO BOX / Ravenclaw OBENTO BOX
Herbology Salad
Shepherd’s Pie
Owl Post Snack Plate
HAPPEE BIRTHDAE Cake
Golden Snitch Parfait
スムージー グリフィンドール/スリザリン/ハッフルパフ/レイブンクロー/ホグワーツ特急カフェラテ
Hot Tea / Hot Coffee
Lunch Boxes / Teacup
Cafe Original Merchandise
Acrylic Magnets Design A / Folders Design A / Letter Set
Stickers Design A / Acrylic Charms
Eco Bag / Satin Pouch / Bandana Handkerchief
Mirror / Masking Tape Design A / Oversized T-Shirt
Fantastic Beasts Menu & Cafe Original Merchandise
Niffler Orange Tart
Magical Trunk Cake
Stickers Design B / Acrylic Magnets Design B / Folders Design B / Masking Tape Design B
The film series adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter fantasy series ran from 2001-2011 with eight movie total. Fans gather together to celebrate 20 years of movie magic and the release of the internationally beloved series’ first entry, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
WIZARDING WORLD characters, names, and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros.
Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s21)Information
Harry Potter Cafe
Tokyo Cafe
Running: July 22, 2021 – September 12, 2021
Location: OMOTESANDO BOX cafe&space
Address: Pine Under Flat B1F, 5-13-2 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Nagoya Cafe
Running: July 23, 2021 – August 22, 2021
Location: NAGOYA BOX cafe&space
Address: LACHIC
Booking Price: ¥715 (Tax Included) *Comes with freebie
Bookings/Details: https://boxcafe-hp.jp/ -
The Snoopy Museum has announced a sports themed event which is set to run from July 17, 2021 to January 10, 2022. Fans of the Peanuts series can look forward to new merchandise, workshops, and a themed menu at the PEANUTS Cafe.
Joe Cool 50th Anniversary Merchandise
Othello
Make Your Own PEANUTS | Running: August 5, 2021 – August 9, 2021
Snoopy Brass Charm Workshop | Running: August 12, 2021 – August 16, 2021
Charlie Brown’s Pitcher Mound Hamburger
Snoopy’s Longboard Surf Pizza Toast
KLOP! Baseball Maritozzo
GOOD GRIEF! Sliding Smoothie
Inside the PEANUTS Cafe Snoopy Museum
PEANUTS Cafe Original T-Shirts – “Lifting”
PEANUTS Cafe Cooler Bag
Official App – “Find Snoopy! by Snoopy Museum Tokyo”
At the Snoopy Museum’s shop, the Browns’ Store, which sells exclusive Snoopy merchandise, they will sell a collection of items in celebration of Joe Cool’s 50th anniversary such as a cushion and pin, an original Othello game set, and more.
Inside the museum’s workshop room, fans will be able to make their very own Joe Cool design Peanuts tote bag, as well as engrave their own necklace, keying, or tag.
At the Snoopy Museum branch of PEANUTS Cafe, they’ll serve up a sports themed menu with food and drink inspired by the characters from the Peanuts comic strip. The cafe will even have its own exclusive merchandise, and a new official app called “Find Snoopy!” will be released.
(C) Peanuts Worldwide LLC(短縮形 (C) Peanuts)
Information
Snoopy Museum Sports Event
Japanese Event Title: 企画展「スポーツは人生のともだち」
Running: July 17, 2021 – January 10, 2022
Time: 10:00-18:00 (Last Entries 17:30)
Closed: August 17, 2021 / January 1, 2022
Official Website: http://www.peanutscafe.jp/snoopymuseum-tokyo/
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eXcafe Gion, a cafe in Gion, Kyoto is now open for business on weekdays again.
eXcafe Gion
Cat-shaped bread by Neko Neko Shokupan
The cafe is located near Tatsumihashi
eXcafe’s famous Hoku Hoku Dango Set
eXcafe Gion opened in November 2019 following the opening of the popular eXcafe Arashiyama. Gion is a major sightseeing spot of Kyoto for its fusion of traditional and contemporary Kyoto culture. One of its longest and most quintessential traditions of that of Chayamachi, also called Hanamachi, where maiko and geisha live and work.
eXcafe Gion is situated near Tatsumihashi where the relaxing sounds of the Shirakawa River can be heard. The cafe incorporates elements of a traditional Japanese teahouse with tatami flooring and wooden structures, ready to welcome guests with open arms who have been strolling around to see the historical architecture of the local area.
The summer season sees locals and sightseers dressed in yukata, the sound of geta shoes clacking on the floor. Summertime is also when the cafe serves their famous Hoku Hoku Dango, a must-try if visiting Gion.
Information
eXcafe Gion
Address: 57-1 Motoyoshicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0087, Japan
TEL: 075-533-6161
Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00
Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/excafe.official/ -
In celebration of her 3rd anniversary, Hololive virtual YouTuber Sakura Miko is set to collaborate with STELLAMAP Cafe (located on floor 7F of Sofmap Tokyo AKIBA ④ Store) from July 29.
Food Menu
Drinks Menu / Latte Art
Merchandise
Sakura Miko to serve as the cafe manager
Sakura Miko will attend virtually as the cafe manager via a monitor. See her work hours below:
1. August 7, 2021 @ 11:00 / 12:30 / 14:002. August 8, 2021 @ 15:30 / 17:00 / 18:30
3. August 14, 2021 @ 11:00 / 12:30 / 14:00
4. August 15, 2021 @ 15:30 / 17:00 / 18:30
Table bookings run through a lottery system
Book for a day when Sakura Miko is attending
Booking Window: July 5, 2021 – July 9, 2021Winner Announcements: July 12, 2021
Book for a day when Sakura Miko isn’t attending
Booking Window: July 13, 2021 – July 16, 2021Winner Announcements: July 20, 2021
Sakura Miko fans can enjoy a range of dishes, drinks, and desserts based on the VTuber, receive a free coaster and lunch mat when ordering from the menu, and get their hands on official and exclusive merchandise.
ⓒ2016 COVER Corp.
ⓒCopyright 2019 STELLAMAP CAFEInformation
SAKURAMIKO 3rd Anniversary Cafe
Running: July 29, 2021 – August 15, 2021Address: 1-10-8 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Location: STELLAMAP Cafe (Sofmap Tokyo AKIBA ④ Store Floor 7F)
Slots: (1) 11:00-12:15 / (2) 12:30-13:45 / (3) 14:00-15:15 / (4) 15:30-16:45 / (5) 17:00-18:15 / (6) 18:30～19:45
Details: https://www.sofmap.com/tenpo/stellamap/collabo/cafe_sakuramiko.htmlOfficial Website: https://www.hololive.tv/
