Hyperlocal Tokyo

Finally made it! (I secretly made it a place I had to visit). I often come to Roppongi for exhibitions, but I never had the time... I clipped this place after passing by and thinking it was definitely a good one, and it's been a few years now. The atmosphere of the logo on the sign, the retro phone... it was a space filled with excitement. Even during the day, the lights are dimmed, and the warm-colored lamps create a soft, gentle, and calm atmosphere. The master's music taste is amazing, and there was an orchestra playing the whole time. It made me happy even to my ears. 🥰 There were three blends to choose from, and I went with the middle one, African. ✍️ It was bitter but mellow and delicious. It was the kind of flavor that makes you want to take a deep breath and relax. ☕️ This time I came with two people, but it would be nice to enjoy this atmosphere alone.

I had some free time and had been curious about this place since I often passed by it, so I decided to visit alone. It's located across from the Tokyo branch of Izumo Taisha Shrine, which gives it a sense of good fortune. The interior has a retro and calm atmosphere with classical music playing in the background. There's a corner with classical records and books. It's rare to find a coffee shop with this kind of ambiance these days, so I was excited when I walked in. Besides me, there were two customers, a Chinese couple and a Japanese regular. It was a cool day before summer, and a pleasant breeze came in through the open window, carrying the scent of classical music and coffee. The owner, who has been running this place for 50 years, shared stories about his love for classical music (but not jazz), and the origin of his iced coffee, which he claims to have been the first to call 'glasse.' I enjoyed listening to the conversations between the regulars and the owner. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable experience. I'm not a coffee connoisseur, but I'll definitely come back to enjoy this space and the delicious coffee.

Located just across the street from Izumo Taisha Shrine, which you'll find if you head west from Roppongi towards the Hills and turn the corner after crossing Roppongi-dori, is this long-established coffee shop on the second floor. The interior features a vintage, wood-paneled atmosphere with a counter that seats about a dozen and additional tables. The master, who is nearly 90 years old, runs the shop alone, and the space is filled with carefully selected music, primarily orchestral. The menu offers three blends: Latin, African, and Caramel. Straight coffees include premium varieties like Blue Mountain, Mocha Matari, and Hawaiian Kona, as well as more common Central and South American beans, and Robusta from regions like Mandheling and Java, for a total of about 10 options. A wide range of specialty coffees are also available, including classics like Vienna (Wiener) and Amber Queen, as well as Turkish coffee. (Espresso doesn't seem to be on the menu, but they do have cappuccino.) *Cash only* This time, I tried the Latin blend. It was served in a cup that was somewhere between a demitasse and a regular cup, and the temperature was quite low. While I assume the Latin blend is from Central or South America, the low temperature prevents the aroma from dissipating, allowing it to bloom in your mouth. The first impression was roasted nuts and burnt caramel, a strong flavor with a smooth texture. There's bitterness, but it's enveloped in a mellow sweetness. As the temperature drops, the coffee becomes even smoother and more enjoyable, a complete contrast to coffees that become unpleasant when they cool. Some old-fashioned coffee shops seem to make it a point to not offer water at the end, but this one leaves only a pleasant sweetness and a comfortable bitterness, making water unnecessary. (Although, it's summer, so I'll have some anyway! lol) This is a truly unique space in Roppongi, where time seems to stand still, and a place where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. I hope this place continues to thrive for many years to come.

Having been stuck at home in Tokyo due to the pandemic, I finally got to visit this cafe and it was truly moving. I sat by the window and ordered an "Ore Glacé." I listened in on the conversation between the owner and the regulars, though not intentionally. They talked about everything from camera megapixels to how high-quality modern dry cleaners are... It was a great cafe.

A long-established coffee shop located just a 2-minute walk from Exit 2 of Roppongi Station on the Hibiya Line. It has been in business for 50 years. The elderly gentleman owner runs the shop by himself. There are counter and table seats. Fresh flowers were displayed abundantly on the counter. The owner seems to be very knowledgeable about music. On this day, classical music was playing. The Vienna coffee is made with freshly whipped cream after you order it, and the owner even asks if you want sugar. It's a very comfortable shop.