Its location in the Kenzo Tange-designed Sogetsu Kaikan building in Akasaka is enough reason for architecture lovers to make a pilgrimage, but another pull is the involvement of prolific Japanese design firm, Nendo, which is behind the creation of this sleek cafe. 

The structure’s walls and ceilings were left untouched but Nendo unified the space by using the same materials throughout, specifically the “stream” flooring he designed. The lounge features original Knoll Tulip Chairs and Tulip Tables by Eero Saarinen, which have been repaired. The quiet, intelligent design puts the focus on the view: the cafe overlooks the Akasaka Estate as well as a stone garden by Isamu Noguchi. A comfortable cafe with an interesting view, there’s really not much more you need for a relaxing coffee break. 

Connel Coffee, Sogetsu Hall 2F, 7-2-21 Akasaka, Minato

Oslo-born Fuglen was a first mover when it opened in Tomigaya, a stone’s throw away from Yogogi Park, in 2012. Over a decade later, the Norwegian brand has four other branches in Tokyo and one in Fukuoka that launched last year. 

What’s the appeal you ask? The Tomigaya branch has a homely, Scandinavian feel perpetuated by mid-Century modern pieces interspersed with vintage decor. Its desire to be part of the neighbourhood was evident from the start, with built-in wraparound bench seatin on the outside where patrons can relax (or be seen) as well as people-watch. 

Fuglen, 1-16-11 Tomigaya, Shibuya

If you’re looking for a classic kissaten that’s seemingly straight out of a Haruki Murakami novel, head straight to Lawn. Located near Yotsuya Station, this cavernous, two-storey cafe was born in 1954 and continues to be a portal to the past. The interior is a bit of a time capsule, with wood-clad walls, parquet flooring, a winding staircase and warm lighting that makes it feel extra intimate.

Sink into the red leather booth chairs and order a “blend coffee” and pair this with the tamago (egg) sandwich, which was said to have been invented here. When urban grind becomes too overwhelming, Lawn is just the place to escape to with a book on hand or a trusty Moleskine to jot down your thoughts. 

Lawn, 1-2 Ron Building, 1-2F, Yotsuya, Shinjuku

This kissaten in Tokyo’s Yanaka neighbourhood dates back to 1938 and experienced a rebirth in 2009 through the help of influential art gallery, Scai the Bathhouse. Homegrown firm Yuko Nagayama & Associates was behind the renovation, which fuses traditional Japanese design with mid-Century modern touches. 

As it’s housed in a machiya (a wooden townhouse), it was appropriate to find old-school furniture to decorate Kayaba. However, clever additions like a mirrored roof add a contemporary twist to the space. Should you plan to linger, try out the tatami rooms on the second floor for a different type of cafe experience. 

Kayaba Coffee, 6-1-29 Yanaka, Taito

Hotel lobbies are usually not top of mind when looking for cool places to connect, but Trunk in Shibuya is not your typical hotel. Since its doors opened in 2018, the appeal of this boutique hotel has yet to wane and that’s partially down to the modern architecture by Mount Fuji Architects Studio and the stylish interiors by Jamo Associates. 

Most importantly, however, its locavore ethos continues to resonate. The hotel’s beating heart is Trunk Lounge, which serves up coffee from Shibuya-based Rosto Japan (who made a blend especially for the hotel) and six signature cafe creations including the intriguing Tonica Feriz which mixes cafe lungo with grapefruit, cardamom, saffron and tonic water. It’s the kind of buzzy cafe conducive to a casual meeting or even a conversation with a beautiful stranger. 

Trunk Hotel, Jingumae, 5 Chome−31−32, Shibuya

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