Butter Coffee Stand, a charming little cafe tucked away in the Nakano area, has earned a reputation for its Instagram-worthy seasonal lattes, caneles, and cheesecakes. With just three small tables for indoor seating, it’s best to visit on weekdays to avoid the queues.
As I was in Tokyo during springtime, I couldn’t resist trying their sakura-themed offerings. The Beets Latte with Espresso (JPY700, +JPY100 for oat milk) was a fascinating choice, made with homemade beet syrup from raw, pesticide-free beets and infused with a blend of spices. The flavors harmonized beautifully, and I particularly enjoyed the subtle spice notes.
I also sampled the Sakura Canele (JPY500, JPY450 with a drink), which incorporated sakura-an (sweet bean paste) and sakura powder into the dough, finished with a touch of cherry liqueur. While the outer layer was a bit too hard for my liking, the inside had a delightful sakura mochi-like texture with a pleasant sweetness.
From the regular menu, I tried the Matcha Latte (JPY650, +JPY100 for oat milk), which offered a delightful balance of umami and sweetness. The classic Canele, however, was a bit underwhelming and could be skipped.
Tip: Check their Instagram for their seasonal offerings and availability.
Kasiki: A Symphony of Ice Cream Flavors
If you’re craving high-quality ice cream after a delicious meal in Shibuya, Kasiki is the place to be. They offer a tempting array of unique flavors, and I found myself torn between the Lemon and Saffron and the Black Sesame, Sea Salt, and Maple Syrup (JPY850 for a double scoop). Ultimately, I couldn’t resist both! The Lemon and Saffron was refreshing with subtle saffron hints, avoiding any overwhelming sourness, while the Black Sesame, Sea Salt, and Maple Syrup was a rich and satisfying blend of sweet and savory notes.
Besides being an ice cream haven, Kasiki also serves a selection of wines, coffees, and teas. I found it particularly endearing that my Norm Tea House Ocha Japanese Tea (JPY500) was served in a wine glass, evoking a sense of nostalgia for days gone by.
Tea House Suginami: A Quaint Haven for Japanese Tea Lovers
Slightly off the beaten path in Suginami City lies a charming Japanese tea house specializing in single-origin Japanese tea, matcha, hojicha, and an (red bean paste) butter toast. The terrace seating, right by a quiet street, offered a relaxing ambiance where I thoroughly enjoyed the Matcha Latte (JPY640, +JPY150 for oat milk), full of umami and subtle bitterness.
I also paired my drink with the seasonal Sakura Mascarpone Toast (JPY600). The mild cherry blossom-scented sakura-an and mascarpone, topped on white toast, made for a simple and delightful breakfast treat.
Like Restaurant: Where Music Meets Cuisine
Located above the BioTop boutique clothing store, this restaurant boasts a lovely atmosphere with high ceilings, full glass windows, and a dedicated area for live band performances. I visited in the late afternoon, so their full lunch and dinner menu weren’t available, but I savored a coffee and dessert instead.
The Café Latte (JPY630) was unremarkable, but the signature Peanut Cream Puff (JPY660) was a must-try. Made as a choux pastry, the outer layer was thin and crisp, concealing a generous filling of peanut cream that was both light and fragrant, avoiding the heaviness or density of peanut butter.
The best part about visiting in the mid to late afternoon was the relaxed ambiance without the crowds and noise, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the laid-back vibes without needing a reservation.
Chigaya Bakery: A Slice of New York in Kuramae
The Kuramae area, once an industrial district, is now a hub for stylish modern cafes. Chigaya Bakery, with its classic American bakery theme, stands out with its red and white gingham curtains, wooden tables and chairs, open displays of sweet and savory bakes, and whitewashed walls and cabinets.
I arrived just in time to snag some freshly fried Cream Donuts (JPY470), light and fluffy, along with a Strawberry Danish (JPY450), Maple Cream Bread (JPY450) – featuring homemade maple cream cheese, walnuts, and figs – and an Iced Latte (JPY650).
While most patrons opt for takeaway, I highly recommend settling into a cozy seat with a book and immersing yourself in the ambiance of this charming bakery while savoring their delicious treats.
