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Feb 21, 2022

Best cafe outside the chains stores?

I know that cafes like Starbuck's, Tully's, and Doutor's supply a consistent cup of coffee, but I'm looking for that cafe that is mom & pop or a place that has one location that you stumbled upon and love. What's your go-to drink or what would you recommend?

JapanDreamscapes

JapanDreamscapes

I never thought I would call Japan my home, but after 20 years I understand the beauty and appeal of Land of the Rising Sun. Part of my affection for Japan stems from my bride, Manami who introduced me to the essence of this magical land. As an amateur historian and sociologist, the uniqueness of Japan’s past captured my heart and soul, bonding me to the society and culture that is now a part of me. This society has embraced me, and I am no longer a visitor, I have recast myself as a cultural hybrid, always updating my identity with the rich cultural information from the past into the present, and, invariably, the future.

13 Answers



  • RindoRingo

    on Feb 21

    For a campus atmosphere, I really like Uni.Shop & Cafe 125, next to Waseda University. Since it caters to students, it is unexpensive and you can see the Okuma Garden from the window (or the terrace when weather is good). Another favourite is Nayuta, next to Shiinamachi station. It is inside of a shrine/temple premises, so you can also see the beautiful greenery and enjoy not only good drinks and sweets, but also delicious lunch. Guess I just like cafés with garden views :)

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  • genkidesu

    on Feb 22

    I really like Tsubame Coffee in Tsubame-Sanjo (Niigata), it has a really nice cozy atmosphere and the coffee is great. Kona Snow Coffee Roasters in Niigata City is also really tasty, and Good Luck Coffee in Nagaoka is close to the station and has been a favorite of mine for some years now.

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  • @genkidesu Did Kona Snow move from a location close to the Meike bypass? The name sounds familiar, but when I looked them up, the store is in the Kameda area.

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  • genkidesu

    on Feb 22

    @JapanDreamscapes they're about 10 minutes from Higashi-Niigata Station, but I don't know if they've since opened another location! It's been a little while since I've visited their store, but I don't think they closed down...I hope not, anyway!

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  • TonetoEdo

    on Feb 22

    One of my favorites in Chiba Prefecture is Cafe Edomons in Futtsu City close to the ferry port there. It's in an antique house and the guy there roasts and brews excellent coffee.

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  • JapanRamen

    on Mar 18

    Not that I frequent it, but recently I went to a place called liwei coffee stand, a Taiwanese atmosphere cafe. Not bubble tea and stuff, but actual great coffee and great pudding too!

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  • Eli

    on May 29

    I recently went to Hachi Cafe in Asagaya and they have really good tarts. I definitely plan to go again.

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  • BigfamJapan

    on Aug 25

    For all the cafes I've been to and loved, I find it harder than expected to recall one that was really special. But the first place that came to mind when I really thought about it was Komonoyasan in Tokigawa Town, Saitama Prefecture. It is an outdoor cafe that opens on sunny days only, if the owner feels like it! There is just something special about that place. The owner prepares one of three coffee choices with explicit instructions on how to drink it!

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  • TonetoEdo

    on Feb 10

    A lovely spot in my city, Noda, is Kurara Community Cafe across from Atago Shrine. The cafe serves typical shokudo fare, has a display of locally made handicrafts, and even better, has a wood-burning stove to cozy up to. It's got short hours - 10 am to 5 pm most days.

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  • genkidesu

    on Mar 18

    For the Tokyoites I definitely recommend Kosoan in Jiyugaoka. It has such a lovely vibe + makes you feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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  • helloalissa

    on Apr 16

    Cafe 5438 Ocha-Nova was my place in Koga, Ibaraki. Soy Latte with cute latte art. I should try the very tiny mom and pop coffee shop nearby... here in north Osaka. Those are the best kind of places.

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  • IndayPerry

    on May 6

    As a coffee enthusiast, I was excited to visit Starbucks in Hiroshima City for the first time. Nestled amidst the bustling streets, the café exuded a welcoming ambiance from the moment I stepped inside. The interior design seamlessly blended modern aesthetics with nods to traditional Japanese culture, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. From the wooden accents to the minimalist décor, every detail seemed meticulously curated to offer a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. As I settled into a cozy corner with my drink, I couldn't help but appreciate the attentive service and warm hospitality of the staff. Despite the café's popularity, they took the time to ensure that each customer felt valued and cared for—a testament to Starbucks' commitment to customer satisfaction. Overall, my first visit to Starbucks in Hiroshima City exceeded my expectations. From the inviting ambiance to the impeccable service and delicious beverages, it was a memorable experience that left me eager to return. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or simply seeking a tranquil respite, I highly recommend paying a visit to this charming café in the heart of Hiroshima City.

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  • JamesInJapan

    on May 7

    Starbucks tokyo

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