Whether you’re exploring Tokyo during cherry blossom season or planning a visit to admire the autumn leaves, these cafes offer a perfect blend of exquisite design and exceptional coffee. Here are some top spots to add to your itinerary for a memorable experience.
The Tokyo Edition, Toranomon
The Tokyo Edition, Toranomon, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, is a lush addition to the Toranomon business district. Opened in December 2022, this hotel aims to create a forest-like sanctuary with its plant-filled, double-volume lobby featuring oak, walnut, limestone, and washi paper. The modern rooms, with their light and airy palette, offer breathtaking views of Tokyo Tower.
On the ground floor, the Gold Bar provides a stylish spot to enjoy a drink, with its dark wood interior and backlit shelves displaying an array of gleaming bottles.
Mori Art Museum
Located on the 53rd floor of the Mori Tower in Roppongi, the Mori Art Museum is dedicated to contemporary art from Japan and the Asia Pacific region. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the museum offers spectacular city views from its galleries and The Sun cafe, perfect for a coffee break between exhibitions.
Currently, the museum is hosting an exhibition by Heatherwick Studio, running until 4 June 2023. The exhibit features interactive elements, video displays, and models of 28 of the studio’s most notable designs, including a full-scale model of the Airo car, which cleans the air as it moves.
The Aoyama Grand Hotel
Nestled among the tree-lined streets and boutiques of Aoyama and Omotesando, The Aoyama Grand Hotel is a collaborative creation with Aoyama Nomura Design. Opened in August 2020, this elegant hotel features a verdant facade and rooms with mid-century modern interiors. The hotel also boasts a variety of dining options, including The Belcomo restaurant and bar, and The Top, a popular rooftop venue with panoramic views.
Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Tokyo
Since its opening in October 2021, Gucci Osteria in Ginza has become one of Tokyo’s most sought-after Italian dining spots. Led by chef Antonio Iacovilleo, the Michelin-starred restaurant offers Italian classics with a Japanese twist, served on Gucci Décor tableware. The vibrant green entryway and plush velvet seating create a luxurious dining environment, while the alfresco terrace evokes the winter gardens of Europe, making it ideal for a chic lunch in this fashionable district.
Bonus Track
Located in Shimokitazawa, Bonus Track is a charming retail and dining venue with a village-like atmosphere. Opened in October 2020, this compact yet cosy area features shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and co-working spaces spread across several low-rise buildings. Grab a juice from Why Juice?, enjoy fermented food from Hakko Department, and browse the indie stores like Pinola Records and Fuzkue bookstore. Dining options include the oden and sake bar Andon, Indian curries at ADDA, and Taiwanese dishes at Big Romantic Store.
Reload
Just a short walk from Bonus Track, Reload is an emerging destination housing the Mustard Hotel and a variety of lifestyle stores and restaurants. Designed by architect Shin Ohori of General Design, this minimalist complex is situated along the former Odakyu railway tracks. Explore vintage clothing shops, specialty stores like Masunaga1905 eyewear, Great Books art shop, and Desk Labo stationery boutique. Key stops for a caffeine fix include the Ogawa Coffee Laboratory and Shimokita Japanese Tea Lab, offering tea-flavoured desserts and drinks.
These six Tokyo cafes and venues showcase the city’s exceptional blend of design and coffee culture, making them must-visit spots for any traveller.