Hyperlocal Tokyo

Amand is my go-to spot for a break in the Roppongi area. I've been coming here for a long time. The spacious seating and mainly four-person tables are a welcome change from other coffee chains, as they allow even two people to enjoy a wider table. This time, I ordered the classic shortcake and the Roppongi Ring Shoe, a pastry exclusive to this location. The whipped cream here is simply divine! It's so delicious! If you're visiting, I highly recommend trying the Roppongi Ring Shoe first. If you're lucky enough to get a window seat, you can look down on the intersection from the second floor, making it fun to watch the flow of people (laughs).

The service was incredibly amateurish. We arrived as a group of four and had to wait 20 minutes for a table because it was crowded. We ordered drinks, desserts, and food. We were asked if we would mind waiting for the food, and we said it was fine. However, to our surprise, not a single drink or dessert arrived for over 15 minutes. It was extremely hot outside, and the air conditioning was so strong that it made me feel unwell. We had been drinking the water that was brought out initially, but after waiting so long, we told the staff, and they immediately brought out all the food and drinks. One of us had to leave early and didn't order anything that would take a long time to prepare, but since everything came out at the same time, they couldn't finish their coffee before leaving. The remaining three of us ate and drank, but it was a very disappointing experience. We wanted to buy some pastries to take home, but the staff seemed unhappy and annoyed to be helping us. It's a shame because the place is newly renovated and looks beautiful. The food and drinks were all beautifully presented and delicious.

A well-known restaurant located at Roppongi Crossing. I went there for the first time in a while. I had the Napoleon pie and coffee. This combination is perfect! The atmosphere on the first floor was calm and relaxing. It's a shame they don't have a restroom.

ALMOND, a classic meeting spot, was my first visit. The second floor is a cafe, and if you get a window seat, you can look down on the Roppongi Crossing.

I've only ever gotten takeout from Amand, but I finally tried their dine-in option. I had the parfait, the Roppongi choux pastry, and coffee. I sat on the second floor with a great view. The pink, retro atmosphere was lovely. Everything was delicious and fantastic. It's a place that many people around me aspire to visit. I'd love to go back with friends.