【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
>>next page
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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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Blue Bottle Coffee Japan has announced that its new lounge space The Lounge -Kyoto- will open on the second floor of its Kyoto cafe on March 20, 2021.
An Exclusive Course at The Lounge -Kyoto-
KYO-TO-TO x Blue Bottle Coffee Original Hand Towel
¥1,700 (Exclusive to Blue Bottle Cafe Kyoto)
Blue Bottle Coffee opened its Kyoto-based cafe in March 2018 as its eighth branch. The first by the coffee chain to open in the Kansai region of Japan, the cafe is located near the famous Nanzen-ji Temple. The cafe building itself is renovated from a traditional two-storey Kyoto-style house which has a history spanning over 100 years. Blue Bottle Cafe retained many of the building’s traditional charms like the thick beams and pillars which are both rough yet refined and tasteful.
The Lounge -Kyoto- is also a renovation that maintains the warmth and welcoming atmosphere of the Kyoto-style house. This exclusive area seats just seven people, with seats needing to be booked in advance. Customers can enjoy Blue Bottle Coffee’s new coffee course menu which includes three different freshly-made coffees and two seasonal desserts. The cafe recommends trying each coffee as it is first to enjoy the flavour before customising it.
If you’re heading through Kyoto this spring or in the future, be sure to book seats at Blue Bottle Coffee’s new lounge space.
Information
The Lounge – Kyoto –
Grand Opening: March 20, 2021
Address: 64 Nanzenji Kusakawachō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Reservations: https://yoyaku.toreta.in/bbc-kyotocafe
Blue Bottle Coffee Official Website: https://store.bluebottlecoffee.jp/
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To promote the upcoming anime film Detective Conan: The Scarlet Bullet which is set to released in Japan on April 16, 2021, seven themed cafes will open in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Sapporo from March 24. The cafe is themed on a retro diner which will transport fans back in time to diners inspired by America in the 1950s and 60s.
Main Visual
Bonus Items
RETRO AMERICAN DINER MENU
DETECTIVE BURGER/SNIPER BURGER/ZERO BURGER/BOYISH BURGER/SHERRY BURGER/OSUSOWAKE BURGER – ¥1,599 Each (Before Tax), +¥500 For Acrylic Key Ring
DETECTIVE SUNDAE/SNIPER SUNDAE/ZERO SUNDAE/BOYISH SUNDAE/SHERRY SUNDAE/OSUSOWAKE SUNDAE – ¥1,099 Each (Before Tax), +¥500 For Acrylic Key Ring
DETECTIVE SODA/SNIPER SODA/ZERO SODA/BOYISH SODA/SHERRY SODA/OSUSOWAKE SODA – ¥899 Each (Before Tax), +¥500 For Acrylic Key Ring
CONAN CAFE CLASSIC Menu
APTX-4869 TROPICAL LAND CURRY | ¥1,400 (Before Tax)
COLUMBO MINT SAUCE PASTA ¥1,499 / DELICIOUS TO DIE FOR RAMEN ¥1,099 / POIROT CAFE SANDWICH ¥1,399 (All Prices Before Tax)
AI’S BERRY CHEESE FRENCH TOAST ¥1,200 / RAN’S LEMON PIE ¥1,499 / HIROSHI AGASA’S “SHIPPAI JA” PANCAKES VER.2 ¥1,199 (All Prices Before Tax)
CRIMINAL’S BLACK SESAME STRAWBERRY AU LAIT ¥999 / CRIMINAL’S SOUVENIR MUG +¥1,400 (All Prices Before Tax)
LEFT’S CAFE LATTE ¥899 / YOUNG DETECTIVE SHAKE ¥1,099 / RAN’S BERRY JELLY SODA ¥999 (All Prices Before Tax)
LIMITED EVENT MENU
1st Menu: Detective Conan: The Scarlet Bullet Menu | April 16, 2021 – May 31, 2021
AKAI FAMILY BANQUET ¥1,499 / UNAGI’S KABAYAKI & TARE OKAWARI RICE ¥1,699 / SHUKICHI & YUMI’S DELICIOUS SHORTCAKE ¥1,399 / SCARLET OGURA STRAWBERRY TOAST ¥1,599 (All Prices Before Tax)
2nd Menu: Phantom Thief Kid & Aoyama Sensei’s Birthday Menu | June 1, 2021 – July 11, 2021
*Only available at Nagoya cafe from July 1-11
THE JEWEL GARDEN SALAD ¥1,499 / MAGIC SPICE PARFAIT ¥1,200 / AOYAMA-SENSEI BIRTHDAY CURRY ¥1,399 (All Prices Before Tax)
3rd Menu: Shuichi Akai Season 1 Menu | July 1, 2021 – August 15, 2021
4th Menu: Shuichi Akai Season 2 Menu | August 16, 2021 – September 26, 2021
*Menus 3 and 4 exclusive to Shinjuku and Umeda cafes
*Menus 3 and 4 are centred on the character Shuichi Akai
Original Merchandise
Pins (6 Designs) | ¥450 Each (Before Tax)
Acrylic Coasters (12 Designs) | ¥800 (Before Tax)
Mini Acrylic Stands (12 Designs) | ¥900 (Before Tax)
Acrylic Magnets (6 Designs) | ¥500 (Before Tax)
Folders (6 Designs) | ¥300 (Before Tax)
Bandanas (2 Designs) | ¥1,500 Each (Before Tax)
Eco Bag | ¥1,850 (Before Tax)
Chocolate Tin | ¥1,600 (Before Tax)
Fans can tuck into a Detective Conan-themed retro menu as well as get their hands on some exclusive merchandise featuring original chibi art.
Make sure you don’t miss Detective Conan: The Scarlet Bullet.
©青山剛昌／小学館・読売テレビ・TMS 1996
Information
Detective Conan Cafe
Opening: March 24, 2021
Where: 7 locations in four cities (see Cafe Website below for addresses)
Table Reservations: From March 5, 2021 @ 18:00 (JST)
Price: ¥500 (Before Tax)
Cafe Website: https://conan-cafe.jp/
Cafe Merchandise: https://conan-cafe.jp/goods/
Detective Conan: The Scarlet Bullet Official Website: https://www.conan-movie.jp/
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Three branches of Animate Cafe in Ikebukuro, Tennoji, and Nagoya are now serving as the venues for a limited-time THE iDOLM@STER SideM cafe experience until March 14. Fans of the multimedia series can enjoy a range of themed food and drink as well as get their hands on exclusive merchandise of their favourite characters in chibi form.
Animate Cafe Ikebukuro Exclusive Mini Character Illustration Tapestry
Animate Cafe Ikebukuro “High x Joker” Life-Size PanelsThe idol characters will be waiting to welcome you, the Producer, to a special “Sweetie Wonderland” themed space.
Food and drink names, which are inspired by past event that have taken place in THE iDOLM@STER SideM video game, have been translated from Japanese by MMN.
Themed Food Inspired by Past In-Game Events
Ryu Kimura’s Workout Tray Don | ¥950 (+¥200 for Cocoa Protein Drink) | Comes With SASUGA Logo Sticker
Super Live Fes 2016 Shiki Iseya – Shiki’s Kumacchiman Steamed Bun | ¥750
2020 Valentine’s Event – Prepping the Cacao Soil | ¥800
Bubbly AP CIDER!! Live Hokuto Ijūin – Sparkling Moment | ¥600
Jiro Yamashita’s Jelly Drink | ¥600
Shoma Hanamura’s Night Party Lemonade | ¥600
Merch
Acrylic Key Rings Sweetie Wonderland A-Group (15 Designs) – DRAMATIC STARS / Altessimo / Shinsoku Ikkon / Café Parade / S.E.M | ¥700
Acrylic Key Rings Sweetie Wonderland B-Group (15 Designs) – Beit / Sai / THE Kogado / F-LAGS / Legenders | ¥700
Acrylic Key Rings Sweetie Wonderland B-Group (16 Designs) – Jupiter / W / FRAME / High x Joker / Mofumofuen | ¥700
Pins – Sweetie Wonderland A-Group (15 Designs) – DRAMATIC / STARS / Altessimo / Shinsoku Ikkon / Café Parade / S.E.M | ¥400
Pins – Sweetie Wonderland B-Group (15 Designs) – Beit / Sai / THE Kogado / F-LAGS / Legenders | ¥400
Pins – Sweetie Wonderland C-Group (16 Designs) – Jupiter / W / FRAME / High x Joker / Mofumofuen | ¥400
Pin Cover Sets (3 Included / 15 Designs) | ¥500
Pin Cover Example
Frog Chocolates With 2 Coasters (46 Designs) | ¥1,800カエル型チョコ 注文特典コースター全46種よりランダム2枚付き 1,800円
Clear Tasty Box With PVC Key Ring (15 Designs) | ¥1,800 Each
Campaign
Free Birthday Bromide Campaign
Free Coaster Campaign
©BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Inc.
Information
THE iDOLM@STER SideM x Animate Cafe
Running: February 12, 2021 – March 14, 2021
Where: Animate Cafe (Ikebukuro/Tennoji/Nagoya)
Entry: Must sign up for a chance to gain a slot
Event Details: https://cafe.animate.co.jp/event/imas-sidem2102/
Animate Cafe Official Website: https://cafe.animate.co.jp/
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For the entire month of March this year, Eggs ‘n Things Japan is serving up “Uji Matcha Tiramisu Pancakes” and “Egg Scramble House Sandwich” at all branches.
The Seasonal Menu
Uji Matcha Tiramisu Pancakes | Eat In ¥1,480, Takeout ¥1,080These rich tiramisu pancakes are made with a dough laced in delicious Uji matcha and topped with succulent strawberries.
*The takeout option doesn’t come with whipped cream
Egg Scramble House Sandwich | Eat In & Takeout ¥1,380A classic BLT layered perfectly so every ingredient stands out for every bite.
A Refreshing, Fruity Springtime Drink
Tropical Fruit Mix | ¥650Customers can stay refreshed this spring with this tropical fruit mixed beverage of mango, pineapple, banana, and more.
Information
Eggs ‘n Things Japan Seasonal Menu
Running: March 1, 2021 – March 31, 2021
Available: All Eggs ‘n Things Japan branches
*Opening hours subject to change depending on the COVID-19 pandemic
Branch List: https://www.eggsnthingsjapan.com/store/
Seasonal Menu Info: https://www.eggsnthingsjapan.com/news/210224.html
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Hitobito, the company behind Japan’s popular bakery cafe chain Bread, Espresso &, is set to open a new branch inside Makita General Hospital in Kamata on March 1. The cafe opened its doors for pre-openings earlier this month with shortened business hours.
Bread, Espresso & has 20 branches across Japan including the popular one located in Omotesando, Tokyo. Its frequented by people of all ages for its deliciously soft bread made from 100% Japanese wheat.
The cafe’s picture book-like interior design caters to children featuring bread-shaped tables and cute illustrations.
Customers are welcome to try out the free samples on display. Each sample has a little card detailing various information which customers can take to the register if they want to buy that item. Often in Japanese bakeries there are tongs and trays which customers are free to use, but this new style of service lessens contact with others for a safer trip during the pandemic.
The bakery serves Bread, Espresso & classics like French toast and their mu pastries, as well as alternatives like gluten-free breads, no-sugar treats, and more.
Information
Pan, Espresso & Kamata
Address: 8-19-1 Nishi-Kamata, Ota-ku, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 9:00-21:00 (Until 18:00 during pre-opening)
Holidays: None (Except Sundays during pre-opening, after it will be open 7 days a week)
TEL: 03-6424-7920
Pan, Espresso & Official Website: http://www.bread-espresso.jp/
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Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu is holding a special Valentine’s Day event for lovers which will run from February 6 to 14.
Though the bath house is split between male and female, couples can write messages of love to their special someone on a heart-shaped plaque made from Japanese cypress wood. The plaques were made in collaboration with the local business Kanezawa.
Choko Sweet Sake Shake | ¥630 (Before Tax)
For the Valentine’s event, the bath house is also serving up a special shake beverage made with chocolate and sweet sake. The polyphenol in chocolate is said to be good for health and beauty, making it a perfect choice for a day of luxury at Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu.
Guys who visit the bath house on Valentine’s Day itself will also receive free Valentine’s chocolate.
Information
Valentine’s Bath
Running: February 6, 2021 – February 14, 2021
Venue: Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu
Address: 337-1 Wataruse, Kamikawa, Kodama District, Saitama
TEL: 0274-52-3771
Official Website: https://ofurocafe-hakujyu.com/
■About Ofuro Cafe
Ofuro Cafe is a chain of hot spring brands made for long stay periods. It offers a variety of free services such as coffee, magazines, comics, massage chairs, PC rental, and more. The experience created is like being invited to a friend’s house to kick bck and relax. There are three branches in Saitama including Ofuro Cafe Utatane, Ofuro Cafe Hakuju no Yu, and Ofuro Cafe Bivouac, as well as one branch in Mie, Ofuro Cafe Yumoriza. It also has three franchise branches: Ofuro Cafe Bijinyu in Shizuoka, Ofuro Cafe Biwakoza in Shiga, and Ofuro CafeSeiyukan in Hokkaido. “おふろcafe(R)” is a registered trademark of ONSENDOJO INC.
■ONSENDOJO INC.
Founded in March 2011. Manages hot spring facilities including the Ofuro Cafe brand as well as resort facilities, consultation services, and supporting regional businesses.
http://onsendojo.com/ -
Luxury Italian brand FENDI is currently teamed up with the iconic Aoyama-based ANNIVERSAIRE CAFÉ OMOTESANDO to serve up a special Valentine’s Day themed menu at the cafe which it’s calling “FENDI CAFFE by ANNIVERSAIRE.”
Cake Set | ¥2,800 (Before Tax)
Tart Saison | ¥1,000 (Before Tax)The cake set and tart saison are revamps of current menu items, now topped with in-season strawberries. The cafe has also been adorned with romantic red roses and multi-coloured decorations for this year’s Valentine’s Day.
Information
FENDI CAFFE by ANNIVERSAIRE
Running: November 28, 2020 – February 14, 2021
Where: FENDI CAFFE by ANNIVERSAIRE
Address: 3-5-30 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, TokyoOpening Hours: 11:00-20:00
TEL: 03-5411-5988
FENDI Official Website: http://www.fendi.com -
The Osaka-based fruit parlour and bakery Season&Co., which is located on the first floor of LINKS UMEDA, is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Sanrio’s popular character Pompompurin with a themed menu of desserts and drinks until April 12, 2021.
Menu item names have been translated from Japanese by MMN.
Pompompurin Peeking From the Nabe Hot Pot | ¥1,000 (Before Tax)
Pompompurin’s Specially-Made Parfait | ¥1,600 (Before Tax)
Pompompurin’s Strawberry Omelette | ¥1,600 (Before Tax)
Pompompurin’s Pudding Juice | ¥730 (Before Tax)
Pompompurin’s Mixed Juice | ¥730 (Before Tax)
NMB48 x Pompompurin’s Chocolate Cake | ¥700 (Before Tax)
NMB48 x Pompompurin’s Osaka Cupid | ¥500 (Before Tax)
The menu includes a range of Pompompurin themed drinks and desserts as well as merchandise. There’s also two items made in collaboration with NMB48.
For every order, customers will receive a free lunch mat, and if they spend over ¥1,000 (before tax) on anything on the menu, including the merch, they’ll get a free sticker.
Information
Season&Co. x Pompompurin Collab Cafe
Running: January 27, 2021 – April 12, 2021
Where: FRUITS PARLOR+BAKERY Season & Co.Address: LINKS UMEDA 1F, 1-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka
Opening Hours: 9:30-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30)
Official Website: https://season-co.shop -
The PEANUTS Cafe at SNOOPY MUSEUM TOKYO rolled out new menu items on Saturday (January 16) as part of a new exhibition called “Snoopy to Kyoudai” (Snoopy and Siblings) featuring a sandwich and desserts inspired by scenes from the beloved Peanuts comics.
The New Menu Line-Up
Snoopy Flower Basket Sandwich | ¥1,400 (Before Tax)
This flower basket is based on a scene when Snoopy meets with his siblings who pay him a visit after he recovers from being unwell and they eat sandwiches together. The tasty sandwiches are stuffed with pastrami beef and veg so you too can get your fill like Snoopy. The basket also comes with mini corn dogs and crispy fries. This is one to share (or hog all to yourself!)
Olaf’s Pancakes | ¥1,200 (Before Tax)
These pancakes are inspired by Olaf, who was first introduced in the ocmics as the winner of the Ugly Dog Contest. They are loaded with ice cream, fruit, a whole Japanese custard pudding, fresh cream, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Belle’s Raspberry Milkshake | ¥900
A doughnut-topped raspberry milkshake like the one that appears in the comics. It’s a nod to Belle, Snoopy’s only sister.
©2021 Peanuts Worldwide LLC (短縮形 ©2021 Peanuts)
Information
PEANUTS Cafe SNOOPY MUSEUM TOKYO
Running: January 16, 2021 – July 11, 2021
Address: Minami-Machida Grandberry Park Park-Life Site, 3-1-1 Tsuruma, Machida, Tokyo
TEL: 042-850-7390
PEANUTS Cafe Official Website: http://www.peanutscafe.jp/snoopymuseum-tokyo/ -
The Kirby Café in Tokyo, which is based entirely around the popular Kirby video game series, will release a new limited-time menu on January 15 called ‘Chocolate de PUPUPU’ which will be served until February 28. The fruit and chocolate-packed line-up features three items. Item names are translated from Japanese by MMN.
The ‘Chocolate de PUPUPU’ Menu
Kirby Café’s Stovetop Dessert Pizza ~Looking Out the Chocolate Train Window~ | ¥1,380 (Before Tax)
Waddle Dee Also Loves Chef’s Chocolate Pan Stew! | ¥1,480 (Before Tax)
Old Odyssey | ¥780 (Before Tax)
Which of these delightfully cute treats do you want to inhale?
Information
Kirby Café
Running: January 15, 2021 – February 28, 2021
Official Website/Table Reservations: https://kirbycafe.jp -
BOTANIST’s flagship shop BOTANIST Tokyo is set to begin serving up its spring season menu for the new year at its second floor BOTANIST Cafe from January 8 to March 31.
Quinoa Teapot Salad & Potage (Vegan-Friendly) | ¥1,500 (Tax Included)
A sophisticated salad of quinoa, crunchy carrot and red onion, tomato, and more, all served in a cute teapot.
Salmon Salad & Waffles | ¥1,500 (Tax Included)
Naturally sweet vegan waffles with lime-drizzled vegetables and served with slightly salted salmon and cream cheese. Pour over the maple syrup to make the cream cheese even richer and enjoy a completely different flavour.
Cherry Blossom Jelly & Fromage Mousse (Vegan-Friendly) | ¥50 (Tax Included)
Refreshing cherry blossom flavoured jelly made with rich and velvety soy cream. The cherry blossom petal topping and sparkly appearance of the jelly makes this a luxurious looking dessert.
Cherry Blossom Chiffon Cake | ¥800 (Tax Included)
A fluffy cherry blossom chiffon cake dusted with cherry blossom powder. It’s a sweet and subtly salty mix topped with fresh cream.
Left: Three Berry Smoothie, Right: Strawberry & Raspberry Sweet Sake Smoothie (Vegan-Friendly) | ¥850 Each (Before Tax)
The Three Berry Smoothie incorporates the chunky texture of strawberries, sweetness of blueberries, and tangy taste of raspberries, creating a rich but not overly-sweet beverage. The Strawberry & Raspberry Sweet Sake Smoothie is one to go for if you love amazake.
Strawberry Decoration Hot Chocolate (Collaboration Drink) | ¥800 (Tax Included)
This luxurious strawberry hot chocolate is made in collaboration with Dari K, a craft chocolate maker who uses high quality cacao beans from Indonesia.
Select items on the spring menu are available for takeout as well as via Uber Eats in Japan, perfect for enjoy an indoor hanami this year.
BOTANIST Tokyo’s first floor shop will also release its spring series of products, such as the limited edition Botanical Spring Hair Perfume.
Information
BOTANIST Tokyo
Address: 6-29-2 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
TEL: Floor 1F Shop: 03-5766-3777 / Floor 2F Cafe: 03-5766-3778
Opening Hours: 11:00-19:30 (Currently operating on decreased hours)
Official Website: https://shop.botanistofficial.com/ -
The Kirby Cafe in Tokyo has announced a seasonal dish for the new year as part of the cafe’s “Sweet NEW YEAR 2021” celebration which it will begin serving from January 1, 2021.
Kirby Burger & New Year Dessert | ¥1,980 (Before Tax)
The dish comes with a miniature version of Kirby Cafe’s popular burger on a teeny-tiny plate measured at just 10cm in circumference.
The mini dish looks super cute lined up next to the cafe’s plush toys.
The plate that the food is served on comes as a free souvenir which you can take home with you after eating. These will be limited in stock so will be available while supplies last for the New Year.
Information
Sweet NEW YEAR 2021
Kirby Burger & New Year Dessert
Serving: January 1, 2021 – January 31, 2021
Kirby Cafe Official Website/Table Reservations: https://kirbycafe.jp
