Best Tokyo Cafés 2024
Contents
Criteria for Selection
Alright, so here’s the lowdown on how we picked the Best Tokyo Cafés 2024. We weren’t just flipping a coin, you know. We had some serious criteria!
First up, variety. Tokyo’s café scene is like a buffet of delights, offering everything from traditional tea houses to hip espresso bars. Whether you’re craving a classic cup of joe or a fancy slice of cake, we’ve got you covered.
Next, the atmosphere. It’s not just about what’s in your cup, it’s about where you’re sipping it! We’ve handpicked cafes with vibes ranging from cozy and vintage to sleek and modern. There’s something for every mood, whether you’re feeling chill or fancy.
Of course, quality is key. We’re talking top-notch beans, premium ingredients, and service with a smile. No soggy pastries or burnt coffee here, folks. We’ve scoped out cafes that take pride in every sip and bite they serve.
Last but not least, affordability. We get it, traveling can put a dent in your wallet. But fear not! We’ve found cafes to suit every budget, so you can enjoy a great cup of coffee without maxing out your credit card.
Best Tokyo Cafés
Alright, fellow adventurers, hold onto your hats because we’re about to dive deep into Tokyo’s cafe scene! Get ready to explore the top 20 cafes in Tokyo that will have your taste buds dancing and your senses tingling. From cozy corners in quaint neighborhoods to trendy hotspots in the heart of the city, each cafe promises a unique experience that captures the essence of Tokyo’s vibrant spirit. Let’s get this culinary journey started!
Café Kitsuné
Nestled in the heart of Aoyama, Café Kitsuné combines French elegance with Japanese minimalism, offering a serene oasis away from the bustling city streets. With its sleek design, lush greenery, and expertly crafted beverages, this cafe exudes sophistication and charm.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 3-17-1 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Omotesando Station (Exit A4) and walk approximately 5 minutes.
What makes it unique? Signature drinks include the Matcha Latte and the Café Kitsuné Special Blend. Don’t miss the opportunity to browse the curated selection of fashion and lifestyle items at the adjacent boutique.
Streamer Coffee Company
Known for its innovative coffee creations and laid-back atmosphere, Streamer Coffee Company has become a favorite among Tokyo’s coffee enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic espresso or a specialty latte art masterpiece, this cafe delivers on both taste and presentation.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 1-20-28 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station (Hachiko Exit) and walk approximately 8 minutes.
What makes it unique? Try the signature Military Latte, a delicious blend of matcha, espresso, and steamed milk. For something sweet, indulge in the decadent Nutella Latte.
Reissue Café
If you’re a fan of latte art, look no further than Reissue Café in Harajuku. This charming cafe specializes in creating adorable 3D latte art designs that are almost too cute to drink. From fluffy cats to cartoon characters, each cup is a work of art.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 4-28-14 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Meiji-Jingumae Station (Exit 7) and walk approximately 5 minutes.
What makes it unique? In addition to its Instagram-worthy lattes, Reissue Café also offers a selection of delicious pastries and sandwiches. Be sure to snap a photo of your latte art creation before taking your first sip.
Onibus Coffee
Tucked away in the trendy neighborhood of Nakameguro, Onibus Coffee is a hidden gem beloved by locals and visitors alike. This cozy cafe roasts its own beans on-site, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup of coffee with every sip.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 2-14-1 Kamimeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Nakameguro Station (East Exit) and walk approximately 7 minutes.
What makes it unique? The menu features a rotating selection of single-origin coffees, pour-over brews, and espresso-based drinks. Don’t forget to pair your coffee with a pastry or savory snack from the onsite bakery.
Fuglen Tokyo
A Scandinavian-inspired cafe by day and a craft cocktail bar by night, Fuglen Tokyo offers a unique blend of coffee culture and mixology in the heart of Shibuya. With its stylish retro decor and expertly crafted beverages, this cafe-bar is a must-visit for discerning travelers.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 1-16-11 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Yoyogi-Koen Station (Exit 4) and walk approximately 7 minutes.
What makes it unique? In addition to its exceptional coffee and cocktails, Fuglen Tokyo also features a curated selection of vintage furniture and design objects available for purchase. Don’t miss the opportunity to take home a piece of Scandinavian style.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Hailing from California, Blue Bottle Coffee has made its mark on Tokyo’s coffee scene with its commitment to quality and sustainability. The Tokyo locations feature sleek, modern interiors and a menu of meticulously prepared coffees that showcase the brand’s dedication to excellence.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: Multiple locations across Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Nakameguro. Check their website for specific addresses.
How to Get There: Depending on the location, take the Tokyo Metro or JR lines to the nearest station, then walk to the cafe.
What makes it unique? Blue Bottle Coffee is known for its dedication to freshness, with beans roasted on-site to ensure peak flavor. Their menu also includes seasonal drinks and a selection of pastries made with locally sourced ingredients.
Café de l’Ambre
Step back in time at Café de l’Ambre, a legendary coffee shop in the historic district of Ginza. Founded in 1948, this retro-chic cafe exudes old-world charm and specializes in meticulously brewed siphon coffee that delights the senses.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 8-10-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Ginza Station (Exit A2) and walk approximately 3 minutes.
What makes it unique? Café de l’Ambre is renowned for its extensive selection of aged coffees, some of which are decades old and offer a unique tasting experience. The cafe’s cozy ambiance and vintage decor evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era.
Paddlers Coffee
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, Paddlers Coffee is a haven for coffee aficionados seeking quality brews in a laid-back atmosphere. The cafe’s minimalist design and focus on sustainability reflect its commitment to simplicity and environmental stewardship.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 1-15-3 Shirakawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Exit A3) and walk approximately 7 minutes.
What makes it unique? Paddlers Coffee sources its beans directly from farmers around the world, ensuring fair prices and supporting sustainable farming practices. Their menu features a variety of single-origin coffees, as well as specialty drinks like the Honey Latte.
Lattest Omotesando
For a caffeine fix with a side of creativity, look no further than Lattest Omotesando. This cozy cafe specializes in latte art, offering a delightful array of whimsical designs that are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 3-5-2 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Omotesando Station (Exit A2) and walk approximately 5 minutes.
What makes it unique? In addition to its Instagram-worthy lattes, Lattest Omotesando serves up a selection of light bites and desserts, including fluffy pancakes and artisanal pastries. Be sure to snap a photo of your latte masterpiece before indulging.
Café de Esquina
Tucked away in the charming neighborhood of Yanaka, Café de Esquina is a hidden gem beloved by locals for its cozy ambiance and homemade treats. This quaint cafe exudes old-world charm and offers a welcoming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 3-7-1 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Sendagi Station (Exit 2) and walk approximately 10 minutes.
What makes it unique? Café de Esquina prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and homemade recipes to create delicious drinks and snacks. Their menu features a variety of coffees, teas, and desserts, all made with love and care.
Sarutahiko Coffee
With its dedication to craftsmanship and quality, Sarutahiko Coffee has earned a reputation as one of Tokyo’s premier specialty coffee roasters. This stylish cafe offers a curated selection of single-origin coffees and expertly crafted beverages, making it a favorite among discerning coffee lovers.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: Multiple locations across Tokyo, including Ebisu, Shinjuku, and Shibuya. Check their website for specific addresses.
How to Get There: Depending on the location, take the Tokyo Metro or JR lines to the nearest station, then walk to the cafe.
What makes it unique? Sarutahiko Coffee places a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability, sourcing beans directly from farmers and roasting them in-house to ensure freshness. Their menu features a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over, espresso, and cold brew.
Café Kitsuné Omotesando
A sister location to the original Café Kitsuné, Café Kitsuné Omotesando offers the same blend of French chic and Japanese elegance in a picturesque setting overlooking Omotesando Avenue. With its stunning architecture, tranquil garden terrace, and expertly crafted beverages, this cafe is a true urban oasis.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 3-17-1 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Omotesando Station (Exit A4) and walk approximately 5 minutes.
What makes it unique? Café Kitsuné Omotesando boasts an extensive menu of specialty coffees, teas, and matcha-based drinks, as well as a selection of gourmet pastries and snacks. The cafe’s serene garden terrace offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Chatei Hatou
Tucked away in the historic district of Shibuya, Chatei Hatou is a traditional Japanese teahouse renowned for its meticulous tea preparation and tranquil ambiance. This hidden gem offers a serene escape from the chaos of the city, inviting guests to savor the art of tea in a peaceful setting.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 1-15-19 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Shibuya Station (Hachiko Exit) and walk approximately 8 minutes.
What makes it unique? Chatei Hatou specializes in Japanese green tea, with a menu featuring a variety of premium teas sourced from across Japan. The teahouse’s serene interior and traditional decor create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Arabica
Founded in Kyoto and now with locations worldwide, % Arabica has made a name for itself with its commitment to quality and simplicity. The Tokyo cafes feature sleek, minimalist design and a menu of carefully curated coffees that highlight the natural flavors of the beans.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: Multiple locations across Tokyo, including Omotesando, Harajuku, and Shibuya. Check their website for specific addresses.
How to Get There: Depending on the location, take the Tokyo Metro or JR lines to the nearest station, then walk to the cafe.
What makes it unique? % Arabica’s dedication to quality extends from sourcing the best beans to meticulously training baristas to ensure a perfect cup every time. Their menu features a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over, espresso, and cold brew.
Switch Coffee Tokyo
A hidden gem in the backstreets of Meguro, Switch Coffee Tokyo is a must-visit for coffee connoisseurs seeking quality beans and expertly brewed beverages. This intimate cafe roasts its own beans on-site, offering a unique glimpse into the art of coffee roasting and brewing.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 1-17-23 Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Naka-Meguro Station (West Exit) and walk approximately 10 minutes.
What makes it unique? Switch Coffee Tokyo is known for its commitment to transparency and traceability, with beans sourced directly from farmers and meticulously roasted to highlight their unique characteristics. The cafe’s cozy atmosphere and knowledgeable staff create a welcoming environment for coffee enthusiasts of all levels.
Blue Bottle Coffee Nakameguro
Another outpost of the renowned Blue Bottle Coffee, the Nakameguro location offers the same dedication to quality and sustainability in a sleek and modern setting. Situated along the picturesque Meguro River, this cafe provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 3-23-16 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Nakameguro Station (West Exit) and walk approximately 5 minutes..
Café de Coral
Located in the charming neighborhood of Shimokitazawa, Café de Coral is a cozy hideaway beloved by locals for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious homemade treats. This rustic cafe exudes vintage charm and offers a warm welcome to visitors seeking a taste of old Tokyo.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 5-30-1 Daizawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Shimokitazawa Station (South Exit) and walk approximately 10 minutes.
Coffee Elementary School
Housed in a former elementary school building in Yanaka, Coffee Elementary School is a quirky cafe that pays homage to its educational roots. The cafe’s playful decor and whimsical atmosphere make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 6-1-15 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Sendagi Station (Exit 2) and walk approximately 7 minutes.
The Roastery by Nozy Coffee
The Roastery by Nozy Coffee is a paradise for coffee lovers, featuring an impressive array of beans from around the world and state-of-the-art roasting equipment. This spacious cafe offers a sensory journey through the world of coffee, from bean to cup.
Pricing Range: $$-$$$
Address: 1-18-18 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Shibuya Station (Hachiko Exit) and walk approximately 8 minutes.
What makes it unique? The Roastery by Nozy Coffee allows guests to witness the coffee roasting process firsthand, with an open roastery and coffee lab on-site. Their menu includes a variety of brewing methods, as well as a selection of pastries and snacks.
Turret Coffee
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Sangenjaya, Turret Coffee is a cozy cafe known for its welcoming atmosphere and expertly brewed beverages. This hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, inviting guests to relax and unwind over a cup of coffee.
Pricing Range: $-$$
Address: 1-32-15 Sangenjaya, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the Tokyo Metro to Sangenjaya Station (North Exit) and walk approximately 8 minutes.
What makes it unique? Turret Coffee roasts its own beans in-house, ensuring a fresh and flavorful cup of coffee with every sip. The cafe’s cozy interior and friendly staff create a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like home.
Now that you’ve explored the top 20 Tokyo cafes, it’s time to plan your ultimate cafe-hopping adventure and experience the best of Japan‘s vibrant coffee culture. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or simply seeking a cozy spot to unwind, Tokyo’s cafe scene has something for everyone. So grab your caffeine fix and let the exploration begin!
Tips for Enjoying Tokyo Cafes
Insider Tips for the Best Experience:
Discover cafés off the beaten track: Popular cafés are certainly worth a visit, but don’t be afraid to get off the beaten track and visit lesser-known places. You may discover hidden gems and unique experiences that are not on the tourist radar.
Indulge in the ritual of coffee: In Japan, coffee is more than just a drink – it’s a ritual to be savored. Take time to enjoy the taste and aroma of your coffee and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the café.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Tokyo’s cafe scene with confidence and ease. So grab your guidebook, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to embark on a memorable cafe-hopping journey through Japan’s vibrant capital!