Tokyo is a whirlwind of activity with its bustling crowds and constant motion. Amidst all this energy, the city’s caffeine culture plays a significant role, driven by a love for high-quality ingredients and precise preparation. Japan’s dedication to excellence in coffee is deeply rooted in the tradition of kissaten (classic coffee houses) where meticulous hand-drip and siphon coffee is prepared one cup at a time.
Coffee Amp the Roaster
Japan, 〒166-0003 Tokyo, Suginami City, Kōenjiminami, 2 Chome−2−20-13
This small gem in the vibrant Koenji area packs a substantial punch. With space for just a handful of guests, the menu is limited but focused on single-origin brews. True to its name, Coffee Amp roasts on-site and also runs an online shop and wholesale business. Grab a freshly roasted bag of beans and a filter drip before heading off.
Glitch Coffee
Japan, 〒101-0054 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Nishikichō, 3 Chome−16 香村ビル 1F
Situated in the bookish district of Jimbocho, Glitch Coffee is another micro-roaster with a rotating selection of four to five beans daily. Their baristas are known for their super-light roasts that highlight the fruity notes of the beans. Choose your bean for a V60 hand-drip or enjoy the day’s espresso offering. The café features a “shared” roaster where others can book time to roast their own batches.
Paddlers Coffee
Japan, 〒151-0066 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Nishihara, 2 Chome−26−5
Nestled in the quaint backstreets of Hatagaya, Paddlers Coffee exudes a Portland vibe with its cabin-like interior, bicycles outside, and vintage record player. Owner Daisuke Matsushima, who trained at Stumptown in Portland, serves Stumptown beans shipped from Oregon. Their brews are medium roast, accompanied by high-quality pastries and hot dogs.
Maruyama Coffee
Japan, 〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato City, Nishiazabu, 3 Chome−13−3
Originally from Karuizawa, Nagano, Maruyama Coffee has expanded to a small chain with about ten locations across Japan. The Nishi-Azabu shop is serene and lush, offering a broad coffee menu, European-style cakes, and attentive service. Their coffee is brewed in a French press to retain its oils, and the Omotesando location focuses on single-origin brews.
Coffee Wrights
Japan, 〒154-0024 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Sangenjaya, 1 Chome−32−21
After opening their first shop in Sangenjaya, Coffee Wrights found it challenging to manage both the shop and a 3-kg roaster in a small space. They subsequently opened a second location in Kuramae, moving the roasting operations there. Their coffee is well-balanced and bright, with options like espresso, macchiato, café latte, and a refreshing espresso tonic. They also host occasional cuppings and workshops.
Coffee Roast El Blanco
Japan, 〒142-0064 Tokyo, Shinagawa City, Hatanodai, 5 Chome−8−7
In the unassuming area of Hatanodai, Shinagawa, Coffee Roast El Blanco hides a treasure trove of green beans. Choose your beans, and they’ll roast and grind them to your liking on the spot. While primarily a coffee bean shop, they offer pre-packaged drip coffee bags and snacks. Enjoy a complimentary cup while your beans roast.
Poem
Japan, 〒151-0072 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Hatagaya, 2 Chome−8−10
Established in 1966, Poem offers a classic kissaten experience with an extensive coffee menu and knowledgeable staff. Their offerings include traditional kissa fare like pizza toast and Hayashi Rice, and freshly made scones at the Hatagaya location. Each coffee is hand-ground to order, and you’ll find jazz playing in the background along with matchbooks and smoking.
Reissue
Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingūmae, 3 Chome−25−7
Located in the heart of Harajuku, Reissue Café is known for its creative latte art. The artists craft both 3D and 2D images, ranging from Pikachu to pop idols. Though the price is higher, the art is unique, ephemeral, and perfect for Instagram.
Chatei Hatou
Japan, 〒150-0002 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Shibuya, 1 Chome−15−19
Satei Hatou epitomises the classic kissaten experience with a retro menu of sandwiches, cakes, classic music, and indoor smoking. They use aged, charcoal-roasted beans and paper filter pourovers. The shop has influenced third wave coffee roasters like Blue Bottle in terms of coffee craft and ambiance.
Single O
Japan, 〒130-0014 Tokyo, Sumida City, Kamezawa, 2 Chome−23−2
Yu Yamamoto, head roaster at Single O Japan, trained at Single Origin Roasters in Australia, honing his craft before bringing his fresh perspective back to Japan.
This guide should set you on the path to discovering Tokyo’s vibrant coffee scene. Enjoy exploring these unique spots and indulging in the city’s rich coffee culture.