Shimokitazawa Reviews

66. Restaurant Review: Chao Phraya

2010-03-29T16:49:00.001+09:00

Chao Phraya is a newly opened Thai restaurant in Shimokitazawa. Walk down into a basement to find a very clean, clutter-free, and quite open dining space. The interior is black and chocolate brown (including the ceiling) with cream & salmon colored walls decorated with photos of Thailand and Thai beer posters. Ethnic music (not necessarily Thai) plays in the back ground.

There are black bench seats along two walls that, with the addition of 10 chairs, create 5 tables for four. There are three more tables for four, and two tables for two in the center of the room. Those who do not sit on the bench seats will have cushioned stools.

The staff, all Japanese, was very friendly. The menu is all in Japanese (mostly katakana).

In the evening its specialty is 'Thaisuki', a one-pot dish similar to Japanese 'nabe'.
During the day, however, they have some very reasonable lunch specials to choose from.

A) Kaogapaogai (minced chicken, onions, peppers sauteed in a thai sauce topped with a fried egg served with rice) plus salad, and mini dessert. 680 yen
B) Kaomangai (Thai chicken with rice) plus cucumber slices, soup, and mini dessert. 680 yen
C) Thai Ramen, served with salad and mini dessert. 680 yen
D) Lunch of the day 680 yen
*Add a lunch drink (Oolong tea, Jasmine tea, orange juice, grapefruit juice, coke, or coffee) for 100 yen.
*A lunch beer or wine is 320 yen.

I had Lunch Set A. The salad contained lettuce, carrots, and red onion in a tasty Thai oil-based dressing. The main dish wasn't bad, but the portion was small (of course, lunch was only 680 yen). Dessert was lychee jello.

Lunch is served from 11:30 - 17:00 (last order at 16:30).
The restaurant stays open until 23:00 (last order 22:00).

'Thaisuki'
*Vegetable Thaisuki 680 yen
*Meat (scallop, shrimp, pork, chicken) & Vegetable Thaisuki 1380 yen
Add more vegetables at 80 - 180 yen per order, 380 for wonton,...

The dinner menu also includes a number of side dishes all of which are 380, 480, or 680 yen each.
The side dishes include: smaller portions of the lunch specials, spring rolls, fried chicken, Thai salad,...

I wouldn't mind coming back to try the 'Thaisuki'. The price is really cheap and the meal would be incredibly healthy. As for lunch, if you really have a taste for Thai food, go to the other side of Shimokita Station to Baan Kirao (see blog #28) which is run by Thai people and is absolutely delicious!

Chao Phraya Address: Kitazawa 2-14-2, B1
South Exit of Shimokitazawa Station. Located below '7 Colors' and 'News' clothing store on the main street, beside the Recofan CD shop.
Phone: 03-3424-1133

65. Chain Restaurant Review: Pasta Mama

2009-04-27T14:47:00.004+09:00

The Italian chain, 'Pasta Mama' can be found all around town. I visited the Shimokitazawa location. The restaurant was small and had a family restaurant feeling. The walls were lime green with some simple tile decorations, and there were wood tables and chairs. Although it was clean, the walls had some splatter stains,...

The music was rap and R&B, in English. There didn't seem to be a non-smoking section, and it wouldn't have mattered anyway considering the size of the place.

I was given a lunch menu that was laminated, but ragged and stained. There were four categories of pasta: salt, cream, tomato, and original. All the pastas ranged in price from 580 to 1000 yen. There were a couple of larger salads on the menu, a few desserts, and a list of drinks. I was also given a separate paper describing a few specials that were not on the menu.

I had the spinach cream pasta for 580 yen, and tomato and mozzarella bruschetta for 380 yen. Nothing comes with lunch, no drink, no side salad, no bread,... There wasn't even a side salad you could add, the salads on the menu were too large for one person. They did have an inexpensive side of garlic bread, however.

Drinks were inexpensive, only 150 yen for coffee, tea, soft drinks,... A glass of wine is 390 yen, a beer 380. Cassis and Dita cocktails were also available for 480 yen.

I definitely do not recommend this chain. The food was fine, but nothing special. The music was probably chosen for the Shimokita crowd, but it did not fit the establishment. With one smoker at the other end of the room, I was ok. But, when another showed up, tobacco was all you could smell.

There are too many fantastic privately owned Italian restaurants around. Don't waste your time eating at Pasta Mama.

64. Restaurant Review: Fu-chi-ku-chi Dining Cafe' and Bar

2008-01-15T18:01:00.002+09:00

Fu-chi-ku-chi is one of those places you’d never notice if you didn’t really look for it. That would be a shame.

Located on the 4th floor of a building on Shimokita’s South Exit main street, it is necessary to take a small elevator up to the café. Upon exiting the elevator, you are immediately looking out over a covered, partially open-air dining area - very nice! There are four tables outside, as well as a counter with bout six seats.

Inside the walls are concrete with beige paint and wood accents, with a Southeast Asian feel. There is a collection of odd sofas, lounge chairs, and tables; as well as a long bar counter. One wall is covered with CD’s, DVD’s, and books. Another has music videos playing on a big screen TV. There is a DJ booth too, although it is not in use during the day. Japanese Pop was playing on the TV when I was there. It was a group I had never heard of, and surprisingly, it was pretty decent.

The lunch menu has 6 items on it, all 700 - 750 yen. The choices are: a tomato, basil, and mozzarella pasta, chicken coconut curry, rice omelet, mushroom cream risotto, Japanese-style hamburger, or mentaiko (fish egg) cream pasta.

They all come with a small salad, and for 100 yen each, customers can add a lunch drink or lunch soup. For an extra 200 yen, the lunch dessert.

I started with the lunch soup - bacon slices and diced onion in a light buttery cream base. It was quite flavorful. The salad was lettuce and vegetables in a tomato sauce dressing. I was also given toasted slices of French bread. My main dish was the tomato pasta, it was very tasty.

A nice touch was that every table was given its own bottle of water for re-fills. The staff was shy, but friendly. The menu has photos but no English.

Also during the day there is a ‘Café Set’ which includes dessert and a drink for 500 - 550 yen.

Shimokitazawa South Exit, 3 minute walk down the main street 4th floor, above clothing store.
Pass am/pm and ‘Reco Fan’ on your left, the next building.

Phone: 03-5433-2191

Closed on Mondays.
Lunch & Café: 12:00 - 18:00
Dinner & Bar: 18:00 - 2:00am

http://www.fu-chi-ku-chi.jp/

63. Cafe/Bar Review: Sorga

2007-09-19T16:05:00.000+09:00

Sorga is a really lovely Asian cafe that just opened in July. Run by a young couple, the atmosphere is pure Southeast Asian. The interior is white with dark chocolate brown wood and deep green plants. Everything fits with the theme, ash trays, light fictures, even the air conditioner is hidden by a wooden screen. The music varies, from Bosa Nova to R&B to International instrumental.

There is a long booth on a side wall, with four tables for four and three tables for two. There are two more tables for four against the other wall, and there are four bar stools near the kitchen. In the front of the cafe is a small shop selling Asian pottery and goods. Once inside, I really felt I had been carried far away from the busy, noisy street just out front.

There are three lunch specials each day; a 'curry', a 'plate', or a 'bowl'. They come with soup or salad and a drink for 880 yen. The day I was there the curry was chicken and cheese in a tomato base. The plate was marinated pork with rice, and the bowl dish was something with salmon and avacado.

I chose the pork with rice. It was delicious. They only thing I wish had been different was the side it came with. I would have prefered a vegetable to the tuna salad that was presented. I chose a salad and an ice coffee to go with my meal. All in all, well worth 880 yen.

Sorga has a much more extensive menu in the evening, including a full bar. My husband and I did stop in again for drinks and some snacks, we ended up having dinner as well. Everything was tasty and very reasonable.

Phone: 03-3419-3619

Address: Daizawa 3-1-15. Sorga is about 15 minutes walk from Shimokitazawa Station, on the main street that heads to Shibuya, just beside the Setagaya walking trail, and across from Gyu-kaku.

Hours of Operation: 11:30 am - 2:00 am, closed on Mondays.

All Japanese, but with photos: http://blogs.yahoo.co.jp/venusminaco

The menu is also only in Japanese, but with lots of katakana.

62. Chain Restaurant Review: Cocoro

2007-09-12T17:41:00.001+09:00

Cocoro, which means 'spirit / heart / mind', is a soup curry chain restaurant from Sapporo. The interior is more upscale than most curry places, the Shimokita branch has white brick and dark wood walls, with matching tables decorated with cute, miniature plants. When I was there, mellow English R&B was playing in the background.Along one wall is a long booth chair for four tables for 4. There are four tables for 2, two of them overlook the front window, and one regular table for 4. There is also a bar counter, which overlooks the kitchen, with about five seats. The main downside to Cocoro is that there isn't a non-smoking section.

The menu is all in English, but there are some pictures and most descriptions are in katakana. Ordering is a little complicated, though. Choose a curry, then the spice level, rice size - sm, med, lg, or extra large (extra large is 150 yen extra), and rice type (regular or genmai).

There are about 15 different varieties to choose from, all of which are full of vegetables, and which cost 800 to 1000 yen. Examples include: Pork & Spinach, Cabbage & Bacon, Ravioli,... I choose a curry that boasted 14 different vegetables. It was lunchtime so I also ordered the lunch set, which includes a lassi drink and choice of salad or dessert, for an extra 150 yen.

I was very impressed with the curry. The flavor was wonderful and the vegetables were cooked just right. Incredibly healthy and delicious at the same time!

In addition to the curry, there are a few side items available: cold tomato slices (280 yen), Caesar salad (280 yen), and a spicy chicken wing (320). Drinks include coffee, tea, chai, draft beer, and lassi - plain or flavored (mango, lychee, tropical fruit), and are between 180 and 380 yen.

Hours of Operation: 11:00 - 22:00

Phone: 03-5424-3561

Address: Kitazawa 2-34-8, KM Bld. 1Fl. 4 minute walk from the north exit of Shimokita Station. Check this website for a map.

http://www.cocoro-soupcurry.com/

61. Cafe Review: Wa Cha Cha

2007-08-14T16:06:00.000+09:00

Wa Cha Cha is a cute little cafe that specializes in traditional Japanese sweets.

The interior is white and lime green, with light beige tables and chairs. Located on the 2nd floor, a large window looks out over the quiet alley below. A long white bench seat sits below the windows, in line with 5 tables for two. There are only two other tables for two in the cafe. A magazine rack is up against the back wall, and light Japanese pop plays in the background. The atmosphere is light and airy, with tiny cactus in the windows. If they cleared up the clutter near the kitchen window, it would be just right.

In addition to regular coffee and tea, there are lots of drinks based on green tea and/or sweet azuki beans, all from 450 to 600 yen.

If you like traditional Japanese sweets, this is the place for you! Desserts run from 650 to 800, and they are pretty fancy. They even offer some cool 'combination' plates if you care to sample a variety of traditional sweets at one time. A great choice for visiting foreigners who have never tried them before. I recommend sharing a plate.
In the summer then have flavored shaved ice (strawberry, mizure, yuzu,...) for 550 to 600 yen. Add milk for 50 yen, azuki beans or soft serve ice cream for 100 yen. I had yuzu shaved ice. The portion was large and very refreshing. Yuzu jam is used as flavoring.
There are also some Japanese lunch specials to choose from, all are 'donburi' (over rice in a bowl). Mentaiko (fish egg) and avocado; mixed vegetable and egg; kinoko mushroom and chicken; cabbage and a type of fish with mayonnaise; and chicken, onion, and egg. There is also a tofu hamburger plate. All lunches are 850 yen. A drink can be added for 150 - 300 yen, depending on your choice. A mini dessert set is an extra 300 yen (soft serve ice cream or 'anmitsu').

The menu is totally in Japanese, but there are pictures of the fancy desserts, and most drinks are in katakana. Two nice, but shy young ladies were running the place. I am happy to note they filled my water glass about 4 times without me having to ever ask.

Location: South side of Shimokitazawa Station. Across from Kitchen Ripple, down the small alley in front of Robber Gabriela and the burger joint. Stores called 'Torse' and 'Glimmer' are on the corner.

Hours of Operation: 12:00 to 20:00.

60. Bar & Restaurant Review: Seven Colors

2007-08-10T20:28:00.000+09:00

Seven Colors is one of those places that only opens up for lunch to pull in a few customers while preparations are being made for nighttime. The day I was there, nobody came in except for a man delivering alcohol.

Seven Colors is definitely a 'night spot'. The atmosphere is very dark, with dark brown walls and floor, a black ceiling, and mostly black furniture (with a few touches of burgundy). There are no standard tables, mostly comfortable sofas with coffee tables. A few European posters decorate the walls and bosa nova was playing in the background. There is a large flat screen TV on one wall, Japanese MTV was on during my visit. A large open space is off to one side for those who want to play darts, and it probably doubles as a stage for live music.
In the back of the room is a well stocked, and nicely organized bar. Alcoholic drinks are 650 - 800 yen, soft drinks, coffee,... 500 - 600 yen, and desserts 500 - 550 yen.

The food menu includes a variety of snacks (popcorn, chips, french fries, shrimp in a mayonnaise sauce,...) all 500 - 700 yen. There is a variety of pasta 800 - 900 yen each (or half orders for 500 - 600 yen), both Japanese and Western style. I had bacon in a tomato cream sauce, it was good. I was disappointed that there were no lunch sets, so nothing came with my pasta. I ordered an iced peach tea to go with it.

Also on the menu are some rice bowl dishes (Ghengis Khan, Chashu, Tsukune, Saikoro - don), all 800 yen, half for 500 yen. There was also curry or salad udon for 750 yen, and a Caesar or mixed salad for 800 yen, half 500 yen.

It was too hot the day I was there, but outside there are a few umbrella-covered tables on a small balcony.

I wouldn't recommend Seven Colors for lunch, the staff wasn't that friendly to me, and they weren't very attentive (they never came over to see if I wanted another tea although I finished it early in my meal, I had to ask them for water,...). And, to be price competitive, they should have some lunch sets. Perhaps they should just stick to evenings.
Hours of Operation: 12:00 to 5:00am.

Address: Kitazawa 2-14-2, JOW3 Building, 3rd floor (take the elevator up). It is on the main street outside of the south exit of Shimokitazawa Station, a clothing shop is on the first floor.

59. Restaurant Review: Goemon

2007-08-10T20:09:00.000+09:00

Goemon is a 'Japanese' pasta restaurant. What does that mean? Well, it means that no matter what type of pasta you order, you have to eat it with chopsticks! And, if you decide to order a set, the soup is a clear Japanese flavored broth, and the salad is shredded daikon (Japanese radish) with lettuce and bacon bits, in a light Japanese dressing. To add to the Japanese flavor, all dishes are traditional pottery and everything is served on a black lacquer 3/4 moon tray.

All of the pastas, however, are not Japanese style (with seaweed, fish eggs,...). Half are Japanese and half are 'Western'. I ordered a fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese with basil in a tomato base, it was very tasty. It was, however, impossible to eat without a little bit of splatter (don't wear white).

I ordered the 'Ladies Set', which allowed for the choice of any pasta, plus soup, salad, and drink (I had iced Oolong tea) for 1350 yen.

The colors in Goemon are deep green, light brown, and a bright orange. It is very clean and clutter-free. There is an 'L' shaped counter facing an open kitchen. The kitchen is very organized and there is lots of stainless steel. There are also about 16 tables for two (that can be converted into larger tables if necessary). All chairs are high-backed, dark green and black. Jazz plays in the background.

Seats at the bar counter are a little warm due to spotlights located overhead. They are also considered part of the smoking area.

The menu is all in Japanese, but there are pictures of every dish and many descriptions are in katakana. Ordering ala carte, most pastas cost about 1000 yen. There is a 'Men's Set' (I think the portion is larger), and a set that includes a dessert. There is also a large display of 'fake' food at the entrance. Although the Italian/Japanese combo seemed a little odd to me, I felt the set was a lot healthier than the equivalent at a purely Italian restaurant. No tempting garlic bread on the menu. So, I guess I would recommend Goemon if you want a 'healthy choice' pasta lunch.

Goemon is located out the south exit of Shimokitazawa, just a little ways down from Starbucks, on the right side of the street, 2nd floor (across from ABC Shoes).

58. Chain Restaurant Review: Tsukiji Sushiko

2007-08-09T14:39:00.000+09:00

Tsukiji Sushiko is your standard sushi shop. There is a long counter with chairs facing the sushi chefs, plus a number of regular tables. Order piece by piece, or from a number of sets. Individual pieces fall into price categories of: 50, 110, 160, 210, 270, 320, 370, and 400 yen.

There is no English on the menu, but almost everything is written in hiragana and katakana. If you know your sushi, it won't be a problem.

There are a handful of cooked items on the menu, although we didn't order anything except miso soup (of which there are some choices).

The chef who waited on us was very friendly and professional. My husband and I will eat here again.

Address: Kitazawa 2-3-12. Located on the left side of Chazawa Street, if you are heading toward the town hall. (*There are also over 20 other locations around the city)
Phone: 03-5486-0505

57. Shop Review: Fizz

2007-07-31T17:15:00.000+09:00

Fizz is one of those shops where you won't buy anything, but you should at least take a look. It will be a walk down memory lane. Although it advertises itself as "unisex good taste clothes, accessories, and goods", 99% of what they sell targets ladies. There is a very interesting selection of dresses - mostly thrift store 60's and 70's styles. I didn't see any sizes above an American 6. They also have costume jewelry, hats, belts, some shoes, scarves,... I was particularly surprised to see the collection of 'string art' on the wall, and the tiny plaid suitcases (of which I had when I was a child). The only think I saw to interest men were the Hawaiian shirts out front.Hours of Operation: 12:30 - 20:30

Location: A short walk from the north exit of Shimokita Station. It is close to the Odakyu line tracks, just around the corner from Mos Burger.

Address: 1F 2-32-8, Kitazawa, Setagaya 155-0031

Phone: 03-3468-4601

56. Cafe Review: K's Cafe

2007-07-31T16:21:00.000+09:00

K's Cafe's sign says, "The place for developing international friendships". Don't let that scare you off. It is just a regular cafe that welcomes foreigners.

The interior is peach with dark wood accents and light wood tables. It is nicely decorated, and there is no clutter. In the summer it is a cool oasis; a great place to people watch, drink something tasty, and enjoy the mellow jazz that plays in the background.

Along the front window are 7 stools overlooking the shopping alley below. There are also 3 regular tables for two, one table for four, and a small sofa with a coffee table. The cafe also displays the work of a local artist, mostly cutesy postcards.

Before you enter, take a good look at the menu outside and decide what you want. The menu is in Japanese, with a good bit of English. Order and pay as soon as you enter, sit down, they will prepare your food and drinks, and then bring them to you. Don't worry about your dishes afterwards, they'll take care of them.

Food Menu
Cinnamon toast / French toast with ice cream 550

Green salad 500 / Tomato salad 550
Pizza toast / Bawloo sandwich / Omelette sandwich 550 (come with salad)

Chicken cutlet sandwich / Teriyaki chicken hamburg steak sandwich 600 (come with salad)

Drink Set: add coffee or tea (hot/ice) for 300. If you add 150, you can choose any drink except alcohol.

Drink and Cake Set: add coffee or tea (hot/ice) and dessert of the day 450.

Special Lunch Set: Cheese toast or scrambled eggs + toast, salad, fruit, coffee or tea 650

+200 for the dessert of the day

Homemade Cake Menu
Gateau chocolate / Baked white chocolate cheese cake / Homemade Pudding / Vanilla ice cream / Affogato (ice cream with espresso) / Banana cake / Fruit yoghurt
*Chose the two sweets you like! ￥500　(One\300)

Special Cake Sets: Your three favorite desserts + choice of drink 1100

*Four favorite desserts + choice of drink 1300

Hot Drinks:

*Coffee

Coffee ￥450
Espresso single ￥350
Hot Dutch coffee / espresso double ￥500
Coffee latte / cappuccino ￥550
Cafe mocha ￥600

*Latte with syrup
Hazelnut, coconut, blueberry, caramel, irish cream, cinnamon, almond 600

*Chai spice tea
Hot chai tea 500 / hot chai milk 600

*Herb tea
Rosehips & hibiscus flowers, peppermint, apple & mixed herbs, camomile flowers 500

*Other

Warm milk 450
Korean yuzu tea, hot cocoa 550
Matcha milk, caramel milk, banana chocolate milk, brown sugar milk, sweet potato milk 600

Cold Drinks:

*Coffee
Ice coffee (Dutch coffee) 500
Cafe au lait / ice coffee latte / ice cocoa 550
Ice coffee mocha 600

*Latte with syrup - hazelnut, coconut, blueberry, caramel, irish cream, cinnamon, almond 600

*With ice cream
Strawberry milk, banana milk 600 / Ice coffee 650

*Other

Ice tea / coka cola / ginger ale 450

Apple juice 500
Pink lemon soda / mango nectar juice 550
Ice chai milk / yuzu soda / orange juice / orange yogurt drink / strawberry yogurt drink 600

Special 'Healthy' Drinks:

Coka cola+ citric acid 500
Lemonade (ice/hot) / ice green tea 550
Ice lemonade + citric acid / wild strawberry soda / soy & sesame milk / hot wild strawberry tea / hot milk with CoQ10 + collagen 600

I just ordered an iced chai milk. It was tasty and came in a big glass. I'll visit this cafe again as it is great for people watching and the atmosphere is very relaxing.

K's Cafe has an English website: http://homepage.mac.com/myluckychan2/K

Hours of Operation: 13：00 - 21：00, last order 20:30. Closed on Thursdays.
No smoking time: 13：00 - 15：00

Address: 2-25-18, 2F, Kitazawa, Setagaya.
Phone: 03-5454-0047

Directions: Turn right out of the north exit of Shimokitazawa Station. You will see a cigarette shop on the left side within a minute. The is located on the second floor, above the cigarette shop.

e-mail: kscafe@mac.com

55. Cake Shop Review: Second House

2007-07-20T22:46:00.000+09:00

I'm really not much of a dessert eater, but this cake shop had always enticed me. I guess it was mainly the quiet, outside dining tables.

Inside was nice as well. It was all white, very clean and clutter free. There was wood everywhere and a collection of jazz records displayed above the counter advertised what was playing in the background. In the dining area there is a long bench with 7 '2-top' tables. There is a dessert display case as you enter, and two more 'two tops' located in front of it.

I was surprised that the menu included some lunch items (available from 11am to 2pm):

*Bagel Sandwich Set (pumpkin and cream cheese sandwich with soup and coffee/tea) 1000 yen

*Bagel Sandwich Set 2 (spam, lettuce, tomato, & cheese sandwich w/ soup, coffee/tea) 1000 yen

*Quiche Set (quiche of the day with soup, salad, and coffee/tea) 1000 yen

The coffees, teas, and other drinks are in English and Japanese, but the lunch sets are only in Japanese (but there are photos).

Drink Menu:

Coffee, Espresso, Cappuccino, Cafe Caramel Mocha, Brown Sugar Green Tea Coffee Latte, Cafe Chai, Almond Au lait, Hand dripped iced coffee, Ice coffee latte. 500 to 600 yen

There is a wide assortment of teas, from 600 to 620 yen.

Juices (cranberry, hot lemonade, cranberry grapefruit, grapefruit, orange) 500 to 520 yen

Other:

Fresh ginger ale 500

Coke 500

Milk 500

Chocolate milk 520

Brown Sugar Roasted Green Tea Milk 520

Powdered Green Tea Milk 520

Special just for summer:

Strawberry Soda, Cream Soda, or Lemon Squash 550

There is also a small selection of alcohol (450 to 470)

Corona, Smirnoff, Guiness, Heineken, Zima

The cakes and desserts are always changing. Just check the display case for the day's offerings.

If you order a dessert, you get 100 yen off tea or coffee, 50 yen off a soft drink. Add a cream topping for an extra 50 yen.

All cakes, muffins, cookies,... are available for take-out.

Second House is behind the Ozeki supermarket, just up the alley from Bana Bana and close to ES Cafe.

54. Store Review: Bana Bana

2007-07-20T22:01:00.001+09:00

Bana Bana is a great little store. Everything is made in Vietnam or China, and many items are 100 yen. Most items are made of wood, bamboo, glass, or clay. They have beautiful glasses, delicate wooden eating utensils, incense, stationary, kitchenware, bath salts,... the list goes on and on.

The staff can make up a great gift basket, at a fraction of the cost of going elsewhere. This is a store that I definitely recommend you take a look at.

Address: Kitazawa 2-9-3, just around the back of the Ozeki supermarket.

Phone: 03-5465-0849

53. Cafe Review: ES Cafe Dining

2007-07-20T11:58:00.001+09:00

ES Cafe is a cafe mainly for those who like to play darts. There are two electronic dart boards, and the space needed to use them takes up almost half of the cafe.

In the front of the cafe is a large window overlooking a narrow, quiet alley. For those who just want to have a coffee and relax, there are two small sofas with a coffee table, and two lounge chairs also with a coffee table.

Along the other wall are 16 chairs with a variety of tables, all of which can be moved around. There is a computer at a table for two near the front window, and another one on a 4 seat bar counter located against the wall beside the dart boards. There are also two tall tables for two, and in the very back there is a bar counter with 3 or 4 seats.

There are two small TV's to watch, both were showing an international rugby tournament the day I was there. Otherwise, there is not much atmosphere, and there is a lot of clutter.

They have a few lunch specials everyday, I opted for one of their regular menu items: terriyaki chicken with lettuce on a toasted sesame bagel. It came with french fries, salad, and tea/coffee. It was very tasty, although difficult to eat (messy).

The menu is entirely in Japanese.

Unless you are into playing darts, there is nothing special about this cafe.

ES Cafe on the street right behind the Ozeki supermarket. I do not know their hours of operation.

52. Restaurant Review: Frisco - Charcoal Grill

2007-06-20T17:51:00.001+09:00

I must have walked past it a million times before I finally noticed Frisco. Located down a tiny alley that is sandwiched between two stores, Frisco is a simple burger joint run by a really friendly man called 'Mike'. Well, his real name is Minoru, but after living in the United States for 37 years, 'Mike' fits. If you are looking for a delicious 'American-style' burger, this is definitely the place. Mike cooks his burgers right in front of you on a charcoal grill. The burgers are made from 100% Australian beef, each patty is 150 grams. Toppings include natural cheddar cheese, Texas pickles, fresh vegetables (tomato, lettuce, onion), mustard, and mayonaise. You can request any combination of these toppings, and you can add your own ketchup.
A 'lunch set' includes the soft drink of your choice and American crinkle fries, which come out crisp and golden brown. A single patty hamburger or cheeseburger set is around 1000 yen. Double and triple burgers are also available.

Purchased separately, burgers are 600 yen, french fries (m) 200 and (l) 380. The only other menu item is draft beer (400 yen).

Frisco's is a tiny place, narrow counters line the walls, and there are about 10 black bar stools for customers. The interior is mostly white with some silver accents, and photos of San Francisco help create an 'American' atmosphere. But, close your eyes and travel back just from the fantastic smell of the charcoal grilled burgers.

Sets are served in wicker baskets with 'Coke' cups, just like traditional American diners of the 50's and 60's. Of course the menu is in English and 'Mike' speaks it fluently. Take out is available.

Frisco is open from 11:30 to 21:00, it is closed on Tuesdays.

Phone: 03-3468-5744

Location: Out the north exit of Shimokitazawa, pass MOS Burger (it should be on your left), and Frisco is a little farther down, also on the left. It is just beside a store with a blue sign that (in English) reads 'Import Clothing - Magazen'.

51. Cafe Review: Mardi Gras

2007-05-02T19:05:00.000+09:00

Down a small, narrow alley, Mardi Gras is a very popular cafe for 'local' ladies.

As you walk in the door, there is a small bar counter with 6 chairs overlooking the kitchen. The 'Mama-san' will greet you, and she is assisted by a nice younger woman.
The decor is very 'European', with cream walls, dark wood floors and tables, and emerald green satin seat cushions. Light classical music plays in the background. There are four round tables for 2, two round tables for 4, and a large table for 6.

I had the special of the day, a corned beef and vegetable stew, which came with a nice salad (tomato, corn, lettuce, and daikon in a light onion vinaigrette), and a slice of warm, buttered and toasted, rye bread. Ice or hot coffee/tea was included.

Another lunch choice is the salad plate. Customers choose 2 or 3 salads from a list of about 10. There are also a few sandwiches to choose from.

Most people come here for coffee or tea, and there is a good selection of desserts.
The menu is all in Japanese, but most of it is katakana.

Located on the north side of Shimokitazawa Station, just up the street from the Sembei (rice cracker) shop.

50. Cafe Review: Cafe Ordinaire

2007-04-20T18:31:00.000+09:00

If it wasn't for the sign out front, Cafe Ordinaire would be easy to miss. That is something you don't want to do if you are in the mood for a tasty 'European style' sandwich, served in a relaxed atmosphere. And, they want you to be relaxed. All lunch sets come with an alcoholic drink!

I started out with a shot of Cinzano Rosso on ice (an Italian vermouth). Other choices include Cinzano Dry, sake, or shochu. While you enjoy your drink, they will prepare one of the following for you:

Baguette Sandwiches
*BLT 800 yen
*Tomato and Mozzarella, with fresh basil 800 yen
*Italian prosciutto, Parmesan, and Reggiano 900 yen
*Roast Beef and 'Tona-to' Sauce 900 yen

*Egg and Zucchini bruschetta 900 yen
*Rice Omelet 1000 yen
*'Hayashi' (beef and onions in brown gravy) with rice 1000 yen
*Pasta of the Day 1000 yen (Shrimp and Broccoli the day I was there).

After lunch, you also get a choice of hot or iced tea/coffee.
On my first visit, I tried the prosciutto, parmesan, and reggiano sandwich. Very tasty. On my second visit, I ordered the tomato and mozzarella sandwich. The baguette was lightly toasted and filled with two thick slices of tomato and two thick slices of mozzarella; seasoned with some tasty olive oil. It was served with a lettuce mix covered in oil and vinegar. A great sandwich! I'm definitely going back to have another one of these. I will say that this is not a man's sandwich. It was a perfect size for ladies, however.

Cafe Ordinaire consists of two floors. The 3rd floor contains a long bar counter with 7 stools, two tables for 2, a table for 4, and two tables for 2 along a window overlooking the street. There are a few more tables upstairs, including one coffee table with a two-seater sofa looking out onto a balcony.
The interior of the cafe is cream and white. There are many records and Cd's behind the counter, but jazz piano was playing during my visit. The restaurant is mostly lit by natural light streaming through the window, making for a cozy atmosphere. The counter and wall shelves are lined with Japanese books covered in see-thru white sleeves. Reading material is also provided on a magazine rack. Actually, they advertise that they are a cafe and library.

The dessert menu has a lot of interesting choices, and the staff recommended trying one (but I wasn't hungry enough).

Choices included: Green tea chiffon cake, red wine cheesecake, banana tart, Jasmine tea cheesecake, biscotti, scones, and more. The biscotti were 120 each, all other desserts were between 480 and 550 yen.

Not so ordinary, this is another Shimokita cafe that I recommend.

Hours of Operation: 12:00 - 23:00. Lunch is served from 12:00 - 14:30.

Address: Kitazawa 3-25-1, Shimokitazawa MT Building, 3-4 fl.
Phone: 03-5738-0880

Website: http://www.ordinaire.net/

49. Cafe Review: Korko

2007-04-17T16:59:00.000+09:00

Korko is another one of those great little cafes that Shimokita is famous for. The kind of place you want to hang out in.

Old wood floors and cream stucco walls surround earth-tone furniture. Decorative plants, strings of lights, and old Motown music add to the ambiance. One wall of Korko is all window. There is a coffee table with two small sofas, a four person 'floor' table, and a two person 'floor' table against this window. They give a really good view of the street and crowds below. Away from the window is another coffee table with two small sofas, two regular tables for two, and two stools at the bar.
All items on the lunch menu are served with a salad and choice of drink (coffee, tea, latte, orange juice, grapefruit juice, or Jasmine tea).

This is the complete lunch menu:

*Vegetable, sausage, and bacon 'Po tofu' , with choice of rice or bread 900 yen

*Tomato sauce pasta with bacon and spinach 950 yen

*Tandoori chicken and grilled vegetable 'don' (over rice in a bowl) 950 yen

*Vietnamese beef Pho 900 yen

*Beef stew, with choice of rice or bread 1000 yen

*Rice omelet topped with demi-glace sauce 1000 yen

*Butter Chicken Curry 1000 yen (sometimes they have green chicken curry instead). I ordered the beef stew with rice. First came my drink (iced Jasmine tea) and salad. Both good. My stew came with yellow saffron rice, yum. The stew was tasty, but I wouldn't order it again. Although good, the beef slices were too big to eat easily, and they were too difficult to cut without a knife. It wasn't traditional beef stew, I would have called it 'Sliced steak with stew'.
Hours of Operation: Open from 12:00 - 24:00. I am not sure what the dinner menu looks like.

Location: Korko is located about 3 minutes walk from the North exit of Shimokitazawa Station, at Kitazawa 2-33. It is on the 2nd floor, across the street from 'Robber Gabriela' (see earlier blog).

48. Store Review: Village Vanguard

2007-04-17T16:56:00.000+09:00

This is by far the coolest, and most famous, store in all of Shimokita. Although it calls itself a book store, it is full of magazines, comics, CD's, posters, toys, jewelry, international snack foods, and much more. It is like a mini 'Don Quiote', full of all kinds of knick-knacks. If you visit Shimokita, make sure you check it out!

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 24:00

Address: Kitazawa 2-10-15, Marche Bld. Very close to the Ozeki Supermarket.

47. Cafe Review: Asso

2007-04-16T17:51:00.001+09:00

Asso is gone and has been replaced with a clothing shop.

Asso has a great location for people watching. When the weather is nice, the entire front wall of windows are folded back, making the cafe 'open-air'. There are four tables for two in this area, and dogs are welcome there.

Inside is a narrow room with tables one each side. Large screen TV playing movies. The room is well decorated, but I was surprised that many of the seat cushions were really stained. Not really that important, but it really takes a lot away from the place. In addition to the main room, there is also a 'secret room' for parties of four, and a VIP/reservation room that I have not seen.

The menu is extensive: appetizers, salad, soup, pizza, pasta, omelettes, rice dishes, sandwiches, steak, and more. Most dishes run around 1000 yen or less.

They offer a good selection of inexpensive lunch sets. I had a Japanese 'bento' box style lunch, it was very tasty.

There is also a long list of coffees, teas, and alcoholic drinks.

Address: 2-3-6 Kitazawa
Phone: 03-3413-0220

46. Restaurant Review: L.A. Cocina fu fu

2007-04-16T17:30:00.001+09:00

This restaurant has closed and has been changed into a store.

45. Cafe Review: Alicia

2007-04-13T17:02:00.000+09:00

Alicia is tiny cafe run by an older Japanese lady and her young assistant. There is a long wood counter with ten seats, and one table for 2. Red and white checkered curtains hang in the window. There are wood carvings all over the place, many with the name 'Alicia' carved into them, many others are animal figures. The place is cluttered and older, but interesting. Light piano music plays in the background. There is a small newspaper and magazine rack for those who want to read (Japanese only). In the far corner is a display of jams, rice, and other foods for sale. On display on the counter were: apple pie slices (no sugar or egg) 420 yen, and small bags of homemade cookies 470 yen.

The lunch menu is completely in Japanese, and is a little bit of a challenge to understand. The focus is 'natural foods'. I don't think the menu changes, so if you just remember what I've written here, you'll be all right.

A) Alicia's Lunch 1100 yen

B) Mixed Fry Lunch (potato croquette, fried tempe, fried white fish) and a salad 1250

C) Sesame Seed Soba Noodles and Seasonal Tempura Lunch 1500

D) Homemade bread sandwich with your choice of two fillings (potato croquette, fried tempe, cheese, mixed grain croquette). Comes with hot coffee or hot tea (for an extra 50 yen, you can have ice coffee or ice tea). 1250

E) Recommended Vegetable Lunch 1250

Other menu items:

*Vegetable and egg fried rice 890
*Sesame dare soba noodles 800

*Coffee or Tea 250 yen
*Apple or Iyokan Juice 350 yen

There is a dessert set (cake + coffee or tea) for 480 yen. And, a dessert + herb tea set for 600 yen.
I ordered 'D'. It was tasty, but I wouldn't order it again. I think the lady near me had 'A'. It looked really healthy and delicious. There was miso soup, rice, pickled vegetables, another small side of vegetables, and one of the croquettes with shredded cabbage.

Location: From Shimokita's South Exit, turn left down the hill. Just past the Baskin Robbins, turn left and go under the 'Greek Pillar' train bridge. Alicia is just a little farther down on the left, 2nd floor.

44. Cafe Review: Karate Chop

2007-04-12T19:41:00.000+09:00

Karate Chop is a lovely little Vietnamese cafe. The interior is painted in vivid colors - bright canary yellow and brick red, with little Vietnamese touches here and there. Everything is a little worn, like a real cafe on a side street in Vietnam.
Karate Chop is a small cafe, there are only three regular tables for 2, two tables for two with chairs side by side with coffee tables, and one table for four.
The menu is standard Vietnamese fare. For lunch, my husband had the Pho; and I had a pork, egg, and vegetables over rice. It came with a side of soup - a tasty, herb broth.

We added the dessert and tea set for and extra 200 yen. We were both very happy with our meals, everything was delicious.

Just out front of the store are some inexpensive Vietnamese dishes, and other knick-knacks.

Location: Kitazawa 2-7-3
Phone: 03-3468-0481

Hours of Operation: 12:00 - 23:00 (until 1:00 am on Fri., Sat, and day before a holiday), lunch is from 12:00 - 16:00

43. Photos of Shimokitazawa

2007-04-11T20:23:00.000+09:00

42. Outdoor Review: Setagaya Walking Path

2007-04-11T19:25:00.000+09:00

Although technically not part of Shimokitazawa, the walking path is only about a 15 minute walk from the station. The path is definitely one of Setagaya's treasures, a natural oasis in a very crowded city.The path is most beautiful in Daizawa, a wealthy neighborhood of Setagaya. Cherry trees form a canopy over the trail. A stream, which I believe is spring-fed, flows alongside. This is a natural ecosystem. Look carefully and you'll spot a variety of crabs, fish, snails, insects, and birds. Last year a duck had babies. I spotted two of her daughters on a walk I took last week. The path is well cared for by volunteers and city workers. There is always someone planting new flowers, pulling weeds, and making improvements.

During the cherry blossom season, the Daizawa section of the path is full of party-goers. But, only on the weekends, weekdays are for the locals and is definitely the best time to visit. The fall colors are also gorgeous, and in summer the sounds of locusts and frogs will take you to the countryside!

The path starts at the border of Setagaya-ku and Shibuya-ku, near Ikejiri-ohashi Station on the Tokyu Den-entoshi Line. It is actually two parallel paths, they split just a few minutes walk from the beginning. The upper path cuts through Daizawa, before heading deeper into Setagaya - above the Odakyu line. The best section is from the beginning to Kannana-dori.The lower path passes very close to Sangenjaya Station (one stop from Ikejiri-ohashi) then up toward Kyodo Station (of the Odakyu Line), where it crosses over.
There are sections of the path that still need help, but Setagaya is working little by little to address the situation. Even at its weakest points, it is still car and motorcycle free - nothing to complain about!

For those who want to take a nice, long walk there are two options.

1) Start at Kyodo Station (Odakyu) and take the lower path toward the city. At the connecting point, take the upper path to Umegaoka (Odakyu).

2) Start at Kyodo or Umegaoka and walk toward the city. At Ikejiri-ohashi, cross the huge road, and on the other side is the Meguro River. I have followed it all the way to Osaki, but it goes all the way to Tokyo Bay. The Meguro River area is also famous for its cherry blossoms.

41. Bar Review: Heavens Door

2007-04-11T18:52:00.000+09:00

If you are in Shimokita, and you want to drink with English-speaking foreigners, Heavens Door is the place for you. The owner, Paul Davies, is from Manchester, and the night I was there, 100% of the conversations in the bar were in English.

According to their website, they have a variety of events: soccer broadcasts, birthday parties, quiz nights, wine tasting, occasional live music, karaoke,...

They have a full bar, most drinks run between 600 and 900 yen. Soft drinks, tea, coffee 400 - 500 yen. I don't know if they serve any food, but I imagine they do.

Happy Hour every weekday from 6pm to 8pm, glass beer and glass wine are 300 yen.
Ladies night is every Friday. Ladies only - glass beer, glass wine, cocktails are 350 yen.

Our group had a lot of fun drinking and singing karaoke, although you have to have the words to the song in your head (but they did have a decent selection of songs on their i-pod).

Paul and the staff are very friendly, and the drinks were good. I'm sure guys would care less, but I was disappointed with the atmosphere. The walls are plastered with faces cut out from magazines, and they look like they've been there a while. There is a mismatch of tables with mostly folding chairs. There are a couple of sofas and some bar stools, but everything just seemed thrown together to me. There was a good selection of English books against one wall, but they just added a cluttered feeling. Again, maybe foreign women are not who they are trying to attract. I'm sure it is just the place to catch the latest British soccer match on TV.

Hours of Operation: 6pm - 2am

Location: 2 minutes walk from the South Exit of Shimokitazawa Station. Walk straight down the main shopping street, then turn right at Mister Donuts. It is on the left, 2nd floor.

Address: Kitazawa 2-17-10, Takimoto Bld. 2F
Phone: 03-3411-6774

http://heavensdoortokyo.fc2web.com/

40. Bar Review: Enotria Diana

2007-04-06T21:00:00.000+09:00

Enotria Diana is one of my very favorite places to drink (and snack) in Shimokita. A typical Italian cafe and bar, this place does not disappoint.

The front of Enotria Diana completely opens up, making the front mostly 'open-air'. There are three oak barrel tables for 2 outside, an L-shaped bar counter that holds about 12, and a long bench seat against the wall lined with a number of tall round tables, with chairs opposite.
Italian posters, maps, strings of wine corks decorate the walls, and an Italian radio show plays in the background. There is even a large cured ham shank hanging over the front of the bar, we ate some of the shavings from this ham - delicious!
The menu has a wide selection of foods to snack on, but you'll need to be able to read a bit of Italian or Japanese. Recently we had:

Assorted cheese plate 1300 yen
Olives 390 yen
Prosciutto ham plate 1000 yen
Homemade sausages 430 yen

Although we have never eaten dinner here, the menu is extensive enough to do dinner. There are a number of grilled foods, salads, antipasta, croquettes, casseroles, and desserts.

There are also many drinks to choose from, and they are all reasonably priced.

House red wine 500 yen
Cocktails 650 yen
Pint of beer 820 yen

Address: Kitazawa 2-14-14. A five minute walk from the South exit of Shimokitazawa Station.
Phone: 03-5779-8733

Open from 11:30 - 23:30, 7 days a week

39. 'Mall' Review: Jerk

2007-04-06T20:53:00.000+09:00

Right across the street from the Waffle Cafe Orange is a small shopping arcade. There are an interesting mix of shops inside, pretty much the same as what you find all over Shimokita, but in one place. I always buy postcards from the rental box store inside.

Hours of Operation: 12:00 - 20:00

Location: Kitazawa 2-chome. Take Shimokitazawa Station's North Exit. Once outside, go left up the hill. At the top of the hill (in front of the electric shop), turn right. It is a short way down on your right.

38. Restaurant Review: Taraato

2007-04-06T20:26:00.000+09:00

Taraato is one of those places that you have to visit at least once, just to see it. From the outside, it looks like just another Southeast Asian restaurant. What is surprising is that it is two stories, and you walk down into Thailand to get to your table.

The place was packed the day we went there. Small groups of college kids everywhere, drinking lots of alcohol and eating lots of food. It turns out all food and drink are 399 yen. Strangely enough, in addition to the Southeast Asian dishes, there were a lot of Mexican choices as well.

We had Vietnamese spring rolls, Pad Thai, and some sort of fried rice. Nothing was very authentic, or tasty. I would not come here again for Asian cuisine, there are too many better choices in Shimokita. I also felt that the kitchen was too cluttered, maybe it wasn't unclean, but it felt that way.

On the other hand, it is a really inexpensive, fun place to drink. There was nothing wrong with my margarita!

During the day, Taraato has an all-you-can-eat buffet with four sections: main, salad, dessert, and drink. I've never seen it, so I can't comment.

Address: Kitazawa 2-11-3. From the South exit of Shimokitazawa Station, take an immediate left down the street (toward Chazawa dori). It is a short walk down on the left.
Phone: 03-3412-0037

37. Restaurant Review: Imari

2007-04-06T18:45:00.001+09:00

This restaurant has been closed.

Just outside and up the hill from the North exit is a tiny little place called Imari. On the door, in English, it says 'soup in summer', 'stew in winter. It was a cold, windy day; stew would be just the thing.

Stepping inside was like entering a time warp. The building is old and the classical music makes it feel even older. The white walls are 'grayed' with age, and mini chandeliers and beaded glass lights hang from the ceiling. The back wall is an unusual black antique folding screen covered in trees and deer.

There are two large tables that hold 6 people each, plus four tables for 4. A staircase in the back leads to the kitchen upstairs. A lovely young woman takes orders and notifies the kitchen by intercom. Food 'magically' appears from behind the cash register.

The menu, in winter, is stew. There were two lunch sets: beef stew (1750 yen) or chicken vegetable stew (1450 yen). They are served with salad and a choice of rice or bread.

Customers can also order from the regular menu, which is divided into two stew catagories - brown sauce (beef, oxtail, tongue, mix of the three - all about 2000 yen) and white sauce (vegetable, chicken, or fish - all about 1750 yen). Add rice or bread for 210 yen. I don't know if a salad is included or not.
I went with the beef stew lunch set. I also had a glass of red wine (420 yen). The beef stew was very tasty, but I felt that the portion size was a little small for the price (compared with beef stew I've eaten around Japan - in places that also specialize in it).

Also, I had the rice, but the people next to me ordered bread. It was warm, crusty French bread - great for dipping. If I return someday, I'll try it with the chicken stew. I did really like the atmosphere.

I don't know what types of soup they serve in the summer.

36. Cafe Review: Waffle Cafe Orange

2007-04-06T18:26:00.000+09:00

I have walked past the Waffle Cafe Orange a million times, but never in the morning when I prefer to eat waffles. The displays outside are really tempting, but they are so big I knew I'd never have room for one after eating lunch. Finally, after a Japanese breakfast of miso soup, rice, and pickles, I decided to have a waffle for lunch!
I was surprised to see that they actually had four 'Waffle Lunch Sets'. There were three types of waffles to choose from: plain; avocado, tomato, and cream cheese; and salad with Caesar dressing. The fourth choice was a 'Waffle Plate', with a mix of waffle types (tuna/mayo/corn, tomato/cream cheese, and banana/chocolate). I was not brave enough to try anything but the plain waffle. Lunch sets come with coffee or tea.
The waffles were delicious, warm, light, and fluffy. I just wish I could have had a big glass of milk with them, instead of ice coffee. For those who do like to eat waffles anytime of day, the menu is quite extensive. In addition to the waffles above, choices include:

*Chocolate, almond, whip cream
*Seasonal fruit and whip cream
*Banana, chocolate, and ice cream
*Orange, mango sauce, and ice cream
*Powdered green tea, ice cream, and sweet beans
*Raspberry, blueberry, and ice cream
*Pizza waffle
(Add whip cream or ice cream to anything for 115 yen extra)

Drinks include a selection of coffees, teas, soft drinks, juices, and draft beer (500 - 700 yen).

I don't know how often I'll want to eat waffles, but it is a really nice cafe. The interior is light and airy, with old wooden floors, and lime green + sky blue walls. Floor to ceiling windows run down two sides of the restaurant. I think they open them when the weather is nice, practically making the entire restaurant 'open air'. The background music was reminiscent of the Caribbean. Inside there are seven tables for 2, and two slim tables for 4. Outside on the patio there are seven tables for two.

35. Restaurant Review: Daikon Man

2007-04-06T17:59:00.000+09:00

I have no idea why this place is called 'Daikon Man', there is no Japanese radish served here. This is a standard okonomiyaki, takoyaki, and yakisoba joint. One of those places where the smell of food on the griddle drifts out the door and pulls you inside.

Interesting enough, this place used to be Italian. I know that because they left Italian decorations on the walls. They also leave the daily grease and grime - if you really look at things closely, you probably won't want to eat here. But, if you want really delicious okonomiyaki (Kansai or Hiroshima style) in a typical Asian setting, this is the place. The restaurant is narrow and only holds three tables for 4, two tables for 2, and space for 10 on a long 'L' shaped bench right on the edge of the huge griddle. Watching the show and making friends with the people beside you is all part of the fun. Just don't let your coat rub up against the wall or fall on the floor!

Location: Walk straight down the main shopping street on the South side of Shimokitazawa station. You'll see (and smell) Daikon Man on your left.

34. Cafe/Bar Review: Kitchen Ripple

2007-04-06T17:17:00.000+09:00

I was walking around the north side of Shimokita station and I was in the mood for pasta. I happened across this sign, so I decided to give 'Kitchen Ripple' a try.
There was no way of knowing what 'Kitchen Ripple' looked like, it was up a narrow staircase, on the 2nd floor (over a hair salon). I was pleasantly surprised.

Kitchen Ripple is pretty small, there is a long wooden bar counter with 5 stools, and one long table with bench seats (for 6). The atmosphere is 'Australian Outback', with aboriginal-style designs on the walls. 80's English pop music plays in the background (Cyndi Lauper, Tears for Fears,..). One nice, kinda shy guy runs the place.
As you can tell, the menu is pretty extensive. I asked him for a pasta recommendation, it was spaghetti with pork, mushrooms, and onions - flavored with miso and soy sauce. It sounded interesting, so I tried it. Lunch comes with a mini salad and bread. As I watched the owner prepare my pasta, I enjoyed a really nice salad - tomato, cucumber, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and a selection of lettuce in an oil-based onion dressing. It also came with a lightly toasted croissant, mmm. The pasta was really good and it was so nice to hear all my favorites from the 80's. I'll definitely be eating here again.

The menu is entirely in Japanese, but is almost completely katakana. There is a large selection of pastas, the standards (meat sauce, carbonara, ariabiata) and more original creations like the one I tried. He also serves pizza, hamburgers, steak, grilled chicken, rice omelets, salad, and more. Everything is priced right around 1000 yen.

In the evening; add a mini salad, soup, bread, and mini dessert for only 350 yen.

Address: Kitazawa 2-33-6. A couple of minutes from the North exit of Shimokita station. I believe it was down the street (toward the tracks) from 'Lush'.
Phone: 03-3466-9996

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Sunday 12:15 - 15:30
Thursday - Sunday 17:30 - 23:00

33. Shop Review: Irohado

2007-04-06T17:08:00.000+09:00

Irohado is another of Shimokita's funky little shops. Mostly it is full of cheap, ugly hats and bags. But there is an interesting selection of women's socks - very funky. They also have a bunch of Jackie Onassis (or Nicole Richie - for those of you who don't realize who truly made them famous) over-sized sunglasses, all for 1000 yen. At the same price, they also have lots of stylish glasses for those of us who want to wear glasses but don't really need them. Throw in crazy shoelaces, cheap jewelry, and a collection of buttons and patches - that's Irohado.

From Shimokita's South Exit, make an immediate left at the McDonalds. At the first street, turn right. It is a little ways down on the right hand side.

32. Restaurant Review: Les liens Brasserie

2007-04-06T16:21:00.002+09:00

This entire beautiful building has been destroyed and replaced with a parking lot.

Another one of those places that peaks the curiosity, Les liens is a little french bistro with a traditional Japanese feeling. The walls are white; the floors, tables, and chairs all chocolate brown. Well worn wood with character. A large bookcase holds a selection of reading material (all in Japanese). Mellow jazz plays quietly in the background. It is a small place, with a table for 4, a table for 3, three tables for 2, and two seats at the bar.
There are three choices for lunch: a daily special, sandwich, or curry (all about 1000 yen). The menu is handwritten in Japanese, and the little bit that is in katakana is French. Whenever in doubt, I always order the special.

First came a small cup of pea soup, flavored with peppered croutons. I love peas, so I really enjoyed the soup. The main dish was a variety of vegetables (cabbage, potatoes, broccoli,...), a sausage, and a very tender piece of pork in a tasty soup broth. A popular french dish that I cannot spell in English. It came with a choice of rice or bread. Healthy and delicious. I added on a cup of coffee for 150 yen.

Address: 5-32-14 Daizawa. From Shimokitazawa's South exit, walk down the main shopping street. When it runs into a number of other streets, take the 2nd left - you should see a used clothing shop called 'Chicago'. Les liens is on the right at the traffic light (on Chazawa dori). It is part of the first floor of the really cool building on the corner.

Phone: 03-3410-3454

Hours of Operation: Closed on Mondays
Tues: 18:00 - 23:00
Wed/Thurs/Fri: 12:00 - 14:00 / 18:00 - 23:00
Sat/Sun/Holidays: 12:00 - 22:00

31. Shop Review: Madman

2007-04-06T16:01:00.000+09:00

A great name for a shop, I never would have guessed it would be a fish/pet store. They have a large selection of fish, fresh and saltwater. They also have turtles, lizards, a lonely toucan, and a very sad owl. Despite the disrespect for wild animals (that should never be pets), the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. They were very polite when I complained. If you ever wander by this store, I hope you'll say something as well. I know every other customer just says 'kawaii' (how cute) and walks away (both animals are extremely expensive and will probably live the rest of their lives in the store). If you are purchasing fish, however, this is the only shop in Shimokitazawa.

Address: Daizawa 4-chome, on Chazawa dori, almost beside Tambourin (a previous blog).

30. Cafe Review: Mois Cafe

2007-04-06T15:14:00.000+09:00

I love stumbling across a hidden gem like Mois Cafe. I was just wandering a residential side street not far from the station and there it was. An English list of drinks on a huge chalkboard in front of a older 2-story Japanese home. No idea what might be inside, but one of those places where you just have to take a look.
Glad I did. Just inside was a smallish room with three tables for 4 and a tiny open kitchen. A young woman was cooking something that smelled amazing. I was led upstairs to a large Japanese style room filled with dark wood furniture - two tables for 2, four regular tables for 4, and two coffee tables flanked by sofas (each seating 4). Mellow, yet funky new age music was playing softly in the background.
The 3 menus presented were on CD jackets; an extensive list of alcoholic drinks (just about everything, 500 yen and up), another long list of non-alcoholic drinks (tons of coffees, teas, juices - 400 to 600 yen each); and the lunch menu.

The lunch menu is served from 12:00 - 18:00, but if you order between 12:00 - 15:00, coffee or tea is included. For an extra 200 yen, add the dessert of the day.

Lunch Menu:
*Ratatouille burger 800
*Daily Rice Bowl Dish 800
*Mexican Jambalaya 800
*Today's Curry 800
*Sweet Potato and Chicken Ethnic Curry 900
*Indian Chicken Curry 950
(All served with salad and soup.)
*Spicy Tomato Soup 850
*Fish and Spinach Cream Soup 900
*7 Types of Mushroom Cream Soup 900
(All served with rice or bread.)
* There is also a daily special.

There is a drink/dessert set for 900 yen. Choose from blueberry, strawberry, plum, or 'Today's' tea + 'Today's' pudding.

I had eaten earlier in the day, so I tried the dessert of the day (Apple cheesecake) and iced coffee. The cheesecake was very good, but quite rich. It was also pretty big. Good for sharing, I couldn't eat it all myself. I'm looking forward to going back for lunch, the ones I saw delivered to other tables looked tasty.
I did not get a chance to see the dinner menu and I am not sure of the hours of operation.

The menu is in Japanese, but if you read katakana, you'll understand 90% of it.

Address: Kitazawa 2-21-26. Walk down the main shopping street from Shimokitazawa's South Exit, turn right at Mister Donuts, walk a little and turn right again, it is on the left.
Mois Cafe is owned by a company called 'Renovation Planning'. Every place they own is unique. Check their website for more information: http://www.renovationplanning.co.jp/

29. Restaurant Review: Wine Cafe Tambourin

2007-04-06T10:59:00.000+09:00

Tambourin is definitely one of my favorite places in the Shimokitazawa area. It is away from the station, so it is mostly a 'locals' hangout. But, that shouldn't stop you from taking the short walk to get there.

The interior is all earth tones, with grey walls accented by wine related photos. There are 5 tables and an L-shaped bar with 5 stools. The front wall is all windows, overlooking the street. When the weather is nice, those windows slide open, creating a partially 'outdoor' cafe.

I've eaten lunch here a couple of times and I can definitely recommend the pizzas and salads. The pizzas are Italian style, thin crust. You can choose from 'Simple Cheese', Margarita, eggplant and anchovy, choriso sausage, and 'nama' ham. The salads are a perfect combination of healthy and delicious. Try the nuts and herbs Caesar salad, 'nama' ham and bacon green salad, or the avocado, shrimp, and boiled vegetable salad.

Mostly, though, my husband and I come here to have a drink with some light appetizers. Tambourin specializes in Japanese wines. Don't let that scare you off. I have never been very impressed with Japanese wines, but the owners of Tambourin take great pride in selecting Japan's best. I always have the house red, and it really tasty (and it is served properly, at room temperature). The appetizers are all fantastic, our favorite (with the wine) is the assorted cheese plate. Most people come here for dinner, and there are many tasty options.

The service is excellent. The menu is only in Japanese. Over half is in katakana, so it is not hard to figure out most items if you just sound them out.

Address: Daizawa 4-41-7, a 10 minute walk from the South exit of Shimokitazawa Station straight down Chazawa dori (a little bit past the elementary school).
Phone: 03-5430-1266

Hours of Operation: 11:30 - 26:00 (Sundays and holidays until 24:00). Closed on Monday.

Website: http://www.tambourin.net/

28. Restaurant Review: Baan Kirao

2007-04-05T18:04:00.000+09:00

For the real taste of Thailand, Baan Kirao is the only choice in Shimokitazawa. Everybody who works here is Thai, and their banter (in addition to neon, bamboo, and variety of Thai posters)create an atmosphere that takes you straight back to that beach side hut in Phuket.
Lunch sets are very inexpensive, between 500 and 800 yen each (dessert included). Add an alcoholic drink for 200 yen, a non-alcoholic one for 100 yen.

The regular menu has all the Thai favorites: Tom Yum Kun, Pad Thai,... the list goes on and on. Everything I've ever ordered was fantastic, and was served on those oval plastic plates that all real Thai restaurants use.

Hours of Operation: Lunch: 12:00 - 23:00

Phone: 03-3468-7400
Address: Kitazawa 2-30-2, Maruwa Center 2F
Exit Shimokitazawa Station's North Exit, turn left and walk down the street. Baan Kirao is on the 2nd floor, left side of the street.

Website: http://www.baankirao.com/

27. Shop Review: Kasuh Kobo

2007-03-06T17:27:00.001+09:00

Update: Kasuh Kobo looks a little different now, but the fish are still just inside the entrance. Clothing is now sold on the 1st floor, but the jewelry can still be found on the 2nd.

Kasuh Kobo declares itself a 'Japanese silver accessories' shop. The shop resembles a traditional Japanese home and all of the jewelry has a 'Japanese' theme or symbol. Cherry blossoms, dragons, frogs, Kabuki, fish, samurai swords,... are all part of the designs. I bought a pair of earrings that look like miniature ancient coins, and a matching pendant with another coin and a piece of kimono trapped in silver. The store is properly named as 'kobo' means craftsman. Everything in the store is unique, and I would love to own almost every piece they make. The reason I don't is that it is a little pricey for silver. Earrings are about 1500 - 2000 yen each, pendant charms start around 5000 yen,... That said, I plan to shop there again and again.

The first floor is jewelry, the second floor is all traditional style hair sticks (chignon pins), that are usually worn with kimono. They will put your hair up with one if you let them.

The earring and pendant I bought were wrapped up in a traditional looking wooden box. It is light and easy to mail, making a perfect gift for someone back home.

Kasuh Kobo is located very close to the west exit of Shimokitazawa Station, across from the 7-11.
155-0031, Kitazawa 2-26-8, Setagaya-ku
Tel: 03-3466-4126

Hours of operation: 12:00 - 20:00, open 7 days a week.

*There are also locations in Daikanyama and Harajuku.

For more information: http://www.kasuh.jp/

26. Cafe Review: Gopal

2007-03-05T13:16:00.000+09:00

I walk by Gopal all the time; it always has a healthy number of patrons inside. Upon reading that one of its lunch specials was grilled chicken in a gorgonzola sauce, I decided to give it a try. Glad that I did.

Gopal is street level, with two walls of glass overlooking the crowds walking by outside. Another good place to 'Shimokita fashion' watch. The interior is all earth tones, with sienna colored leather chairs and wood grain tables (seating for 36). Toward the front, next to the cash register, is a DJ booth. During my lunch, the music was great; the Beatles and a mix of American oldies.

There are about 6 lunch specials that change daily. On the day I visited, the choices included the grilled chicken, pasta in tomato sauce with bacon and eggplant, BLT sandwich,... The lunch specials include a mini appetizer, soup, a drink, and dessert (choice of three). All for under 1000 yen.
I was given a slice of potato croquette and vegetable & bacon soup. Small, but tasty portions. The chicken in gorgonzola sauce was delicious and was served with a salad and choice of rice or bread. It was as good sized main dish.

There are a number of drinks to choose from, I was happy to see that a small glass of wine was one of the options. For dessert I had a piece of cinnamon chiffon cake topped with whip cream. I paid an extra 600 yen for some iced chai.

I felt that I really got my moneys worth. Everything was delicious, and the staff was friendly. The only problem with Gopal has to do with smoking. There is no 'non-smoking' section, so if you get a heavy smoker nearby, you are out of luck.

Gopal's menu is the same all day, except for the lunch specials that run from 11:00 - 16:00. There are soups, salads, pizzas, pastas, rice dishes, 'bread' items (hamburger, hot dog, roasted chicken sandwich), and some main dishes. There is also a selection of side items that can be ordered while drinking (cheese plate, chicken wings, french fries,...).

Desserts are homemade and there is a different selections daily. They also serve pancakes and waffles (plain, banana & chocolate, fruit topped, smoked meat & egg) and french toast.

Gopal is a popular evening hangout, and there is a full bar. Most mixed drinks are around 650 yen, with specialty cocktails around 800 yen. They also have beer - draft and bottles, and wine - by the glass, carafe, or bottle.

There is also a large selection of non-alcoholic drinks. Espresso, lattes, almost 20 different teas, juices, and soft drinks. Some interesting choices include: iced tomato spice tea, apple mint soda, orange latte, Oriental smoothie,...

The entire Gopal menu is translated into English, including the lunch specials.

Hours of Operation: 11:00 - 12 midnight, Fri. & Sat. until 3:00 am.
*A 10% surcharge is added after 11pm in the evening.

Address: 2-14-16 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Phone: 03-5433-2351

http://www.heads-west.com/
This website focuses on the company that runs Gopal, there is little information about the restaurant itself.

25. Food Delivery Review: Kamatora

2007-03-05T11:21:00.000+09:00

All I can say is WOW! I have never seen delivery like this before. Kamatora is a delivery service for Japanese 'kamameshi'. A 'kama' is a metal rice cooking pot. 'Kamameshi' is prepared in individual 'kama', it is rice topped with a variety of ingredients such as prawns, scallops, salmon, chicken, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots,...

I have eaten kamameshi many times, but only in a restaurant. A pamphlet was stuffed into our mailbox, it looked good, so we decided to give it a try. I will definitely be ordering from them again!

My husband ordered the 'Gomoku' kamameshi - a mix of almost all the standard kamameshi ingredients (1380 yen). I had the 'Tori' kamameshi, full of delicious chunks of marinated chicken and some accompanying vegetables (1180 yen).

To see what was most impressive, take a look at the photo. This was restaurant quality food served on exactly the same 'dishware' that it would be served on in a restaurant. It even came with a hot pot full of tea broth. The idea is eat the kamameshi, but leave just a bit of rice. Put the rice in the small bowl, cover it in the broth, and add the wasabi, dried seaweed, and sliced onion provided (ochazuke). An absolutely delicious twist to the meal.

Kamameshi takes a bit of time to cook, so you must wait about one hour for delivery. Our total cost for two was 2,560. It was delicious, healthy, and convenient. Another bonus is that there is almost no waste as everything comes in re-usable dishware.

For those who have never tried kamameshi, or who are picky eaters, order the chicken. There are no exotic ingredients and it is so delicious. I would even recommend it for children.

The service closest to Shimokitazawa is in Sangenjaya. Their phone number is: 03-5779-3877. They take orders between 10:00 - 21:30.

I believe Kamatora has locations all over Japan. For more info, check this website (only in Japanese): http://www.kamatora.jp/

24. Cafe Review: Kate Coffee

2007-03-02T16:27:00.000+09:00

Kate Coffee is a really welcoming 2nd floor cafe with an 'open' feeling; due to its corner location and floor to ceiling windows. There are nice views of the main street below. A cream interior, with chocolate brown sofas and chairs, is accented by an eclectic collection of glassware, books, tiny plants,... There are four tables for four (two of which have low coffee tables instead of regular tables), two tables for two, and four counter seats. There is a lot of space around the tables. Jazz and uptempo 'island' music set the atmosphere, very nice!

The lunch set is a choice of curry (Keema or Indian chicken) or pasta (carbonara or bolognaise) with a small salad, choice of drink, and mini dessert for 980 yen.
I tried the carbonara, it was very creamy and had a nice peppery flavor. The lettuce, tomato, and cucumber salad was tiny, but topped in a really tasty dressing. My drink was ice coffee, and it came with a very cute set of pitchers for the milk and gum syrup. Dessert was a very small scoop of delicious vanilla ice cream. It was actually the perfect size for a ladies' lunch, and there were only ladies eating there.

The lunch set is available from 11:00 - 15:00. The pastas (800 yen) and curries (850 yen) are available for dinner as well.

Their side dishes are:
*Slice of vegetable quiche 480 yen
*Ham & Egg Sandwich 550 yen
*Caesar Salad 450 yen
*Garlic spring roll 500 yen
*Meatballs 500 yen
*Sausage Plate 600 yen
*Mixed Nuts 300 yen
*Tortilla chips w/ salsa 350 yen

For dessert:
*Cheesecake 450 yen
*Tart 450 yen
*Chiffon Cake 400 yen
*Scone 350 yen

There are many drinks, including their specialty, 3 types of 'Kate Blend' coffee (mild, light, or bitter) for 450 yen. The caramel chai (600 yen) sounded good, and there was also a selection of other coffees, teas, juices,... For those interested in some alcohol, there is a long list of cocktails (all 700 yen) or bottled/draft beer.

The menu is completely translated into English.

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 24:00
Address: Kitazawa 2-7-11, Koji Shimokitazawa Bld. 2F, right next to the Kitazawa Town Hall.
Closed on Mondays.
Phone: 03-5454-5436

http://www.katecoffee.jp

This is the nicest cafe I've found so far in Shimokitazawa. A great place to relax, unwind, and have a drink.

23. Restaurant Review: La Verde

2007-03-01T20:13:00.000+09:00

Shimokita is full of Italian restaurants, and now one more has been added to the mix, 'La Verde'. I don't believe they are a national chain, but there are 9 locations in Tokyo.

Peach walls are accented with a dark ceiling, floors, and chairs; tables are covered with red tablecloths. Upbeat, jazzy music plays in the background.

'La Verde' has a number of lunch sets to choose from.

1) Pasta Lunch (salad, your choice of pasta - 170 grams, and a drink). Prices range from 850 yen to 1350 yen, depending on the pasta you choose. There are about 20 pastas to choose from, and they are separated into these categories: tomato sauce/white wine taste/cream sauce/other. Customers can also choose from a selection of Gnocchi.

2) Pizza Lunch (salad, your choice of pizza - 30 cm, and a drink). Prices range from 900 to 1780 yen. There are about 20 pizzas to choose from, with a tomato sauce or cheese base.

3) Ladies Pasta Lunch (salad, bread, pasta of the day - 120 grams, mini-dessert, and drink) 1050 yen.

4) La Verde Lunch (Appetizer, pasta of the day - 120 grams, salad, bread, mini-dessert, and drink) 1480 yen.

My friend and I both had the pasta lunch. The salad was iceberg lettuce and shredded cabbage with too much of a mayonnaise based salad dressing. My pasta was spinach and bacon in a white wine sauce (900 yen). I was surprised, but not disappointed, that the spinach was raw. It soaked up less of the white wine/olive oil/garlic sauce the pasta was cooked in. The dish was very tasty, but don't order it if smelling like garlic for the rest of the day is a problem. My friend had 'peperocino' (850 yen), which was spaghetti noodles and some large chunks of garlic in a chili flavored olive oil sauce. Tasty, but again heavy on the garlic.

The servings were very big, if you are having bread with your meal, or dessert, I would recommend getting the smaller portion (-50 grams for -50 yen). Hungry men can order an even larger portion for 100 yen (+50 grams).

The pasta was good, but overall I don't think lunch was that special. Again, I recommend one of the privately owned Italian restaurants instead (Ms. Claudia, Over Take,...).

Lunch is from 11:30 to 17:00. The sets are not explained in English, but are mostly katakana. The ladies set and 'La Verde' set are only advertised outside. I didn't see them on the menu itself. The pasta and pizza list, however, was in English.

'La Verde' is open until 23:30. with last orders at 22:30. I don't know if the menu changes for dinner, or not.

They do have 3 party courses for 2,900/3,700/4,500. And the offer 'all you can drink' for two hours for 1,600 yen.

Address: Kitazawa 2-13-4, 2F. One minute walk from the south exit of Shimokita Station. Straight down the main shopping street and off to the left, just above 'Com Pho'.

Phone: 03-3419-6615

22. Shop Review: Dorobou Nikki

2007-03-01T19:47:00.000+09:00

Recently 'traditional Japanese style' influences are making there way into modern clothing, it seems to be especially popular among the college crowd. 'Dorobou Nikki' is a shop that is completely dedicated to this style. T-shirts, jeans, jackets,... are all decorated with traditional images (Kabuki, dragons, cherry blossoms,...) or traditional materials have been added the garment (ex. Kimono fabrics). The jeans are especially cool, although sizes are limited.

The items are a little expensive, but it is evident that a lot of work went into the clothing. And, they are unique. Like 'Robber Gabriela' mentioned in a previous blog, everything here would be especially popular with teenage/college aged foreigners.

Unless you read Kanji (Chinese characters), you won't find this shop by name. Try to remember what the photo above looks like. It is about a one minute walk from the north exit of Shimokita Station, just across from the Deli/Sunday Brunch cafes I also mentioned in earlier blogs.

Address: Kitazawa 2-26-19
Phone: 03-3485-2681

Hours of Operation: 12:00 - 20:00

There are two other locations, one in Harajuku and one in Nagoya.

This website has some good photos of some of the items for sale:
http://www.dorobou-nikki.com/

21. Cafe Review: Nan Station

2007-03-01T19:11:00.001+09:00

Nan Station is closed and has been replaced with a Hawaiian restaurant.

Nan Station doesn't really have the look of an Indian restaurant. It is bright yellow and orange, and has more of a 'fast food' look to it. I had walked by it a hundred times, but I was surprised once I finally made it inside.

Right inside the entrance is where you order and there are also 5 counter seats. An Indian gentleman is making the nan, a friendly man of unknown nationality takes orders (he spoke English and Japanese), as does a Japanese man. Step through a side door and there is an outdoor, covered patio with 5 round tables. The patio is heated in the winter and it has a really comfortable, cozy feeling. What I didn't realize is that there is another dining room in the back. This one is completely indoors, with 26 seats (tables of 2 or 4) downstairs, and 28 seats upstairs. This area was tastefully decorated with beige wood tables/chairs/bookcases and white walls. Jazz was playing softly in the background. Nan Station is more of a cafe as it offers a limited, but convenient menu. The 'Station Set' is 680 yen. Nan or Rice + Your choice of curry + drink.

In the nan/rice category: for an extra 100 yen you can choose a specialty nan (cheese, garlic, raisin/nut, cinnamon); or for an extra 170 yen you can have rice and nan.

In the curry category, choose from: mild chicken, mild vegetable, shrimp, green (spinach + cottage cheese), spicy keema, and spicy mutton. For an extra 200 yen you can 'supersize' it.

In the drink category there are many choices: chai, lassi (yogurt drink), coffee, teas, coke, melon soda, ginger ale, orange juice, cappuccino. Make it a large drink for an extra 50 yen. Make your lassi - mango or strawberry for an extra 50 yen as well. Also, for an additional 200 yen, choose from: draft beer, Corona, rum & coke, Cassis lassi, Cassis orange, or Cassis soda.
I had garlic nan with the green curry and an ice chai. They gave me my drink and a number, and I went to sit down. The chai was average as it was probably instant. When the nan was ready, they brought me my food. No complaints there, it was delicious!

There are also sides you can order with the set:
*Salad with Italian dressing 240 yen
*Tandoori Chicken 290 yen (2 for 550 yen)
*Sweet Potato Samosa 240 yen
*French Fries / Chili Fries 240 yen
*Spicy Chicken Chili (m) 490 (l) 950
*Mango Pudding 240 yen

Customers can also order any of the nan, rice, or curries separately.

Another option is the 'cheese nan hot dog'. Served with a drink 600 yen, with a salad and drink 780 yen, or with french fries and a drink 780 yen.

They also serve all types of crepes and ice cream.

Nothing is in English, but it is all written in Katakana and there are some photos.

Take out is available for everything! You can just order it and wait, or you can call and pick it up 10 minutes later. The menu is the same during lunch and dinner.

Also, be sure to take the advertisement that comes on your tray. It has a number of food and drink discount coupons on it.

Address: Kitazawa 2-30-2, 1 minute from the north exit of Shimokita Station

Hours of Operation: 11:00 - 22:30 (last order at 21:00)
Phone: 03-5465-7182

20. Shop Review: T-Four

2007-02-28T18:17:00.000+09:00

T-Four is one of those 'we sell a little bit of everything' stores for young women. Jewelry, kitchenware, trashcans, wicker baskets, bath salts, notebooks, photo albums, character goods,... the list goes on and on. It is not a big shop, but I really like their selection of Western style kitchenware, and the rest of the store is fun to look at.

Hours of Operation: Mon. - Thurs. 11:00 - 21:30, Fri. - Sun. & Holidays 11:00 - 22:00

Address: Kitazawa 2-30-14, Bld. Trendy 1F (Turn right out the north exit of the station, down the street - next to Muji)
Phone: 03-3460-3647

19. Restaurant Review: Spaghetti-ya 'Dona'

2007-02-28T18:15:00.000+09:00

Spaghetti-ya 'Dona' is yet another inexpensive Italian chain restaurant. Just like all the other chains that I have reviewed, this one is also nothing special.

Lunch Set: Small salad or cup of soup, choice of lunch (I had a bacon and eggplant spaghetti), and drink (I had ice coffee). 790 yen. I added garlic toast, it was only 80 yen.

Again, if in Shimokita and craving Italian, visit Ms. Claudia or Overtake Cafe (see previous blogs).

Phone: 03-3469-8850

Location: Kitazawa 2-chome, South side of Shimokitazawa Station. It is across from the Village Vanguard Store and just down the street from the Ozeki Supermarket.

18. Restaurant Review: Com Pho

2007-02-28T17:32:00.000+09:00

Com Pho is Shimokita's 'elegant' Vietnamese restaurant. The interior is 'French Indochina', the coloring is cream and dark wood, with leather arm chairs and chandeliers.

Lunch is from 12:00 to 16:30. The lunch menu changes periodically, but standard offerings include:
*Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) 730 yen
*Today's Curry 700 yen
*Asian rice w/ ground meat, basil, topped with a soft boiled egg 800 yen
*Half Vietnamese sandwich and half-sized Chicken Pho Combo 880 yen
*Lunch Course: Variety plate of: Vietnamese spring roll, shrimp toast, papaya salad, and fried spring roll with half-sized chicken Pho and the day's dessert 1500 yen

Available sides include: Vietnamese spring roll 250 yen, green papaya or herb salad 300 yen, fried spring roll 350 yen, fried shrimp toast 250 yen, shrimp rice crackers 250 yen,...

A drink can be added for 300 yen (orange or grapefruit juice, coke, coffee, tea).
I've eaten almost everything on the menu, it is all fantastic! Before 'Little Saigon' began opening for lunch, this was my regular Vietnamese lunch fix. Now I alternate between the two.

Dinner is from 18:00 to 25:00. The dinner menu includes most of the lunch dishes and more. For example:
*Fried cod with tom yam sauce 880
*Boiled shrimp in coconut juice 1200
*Roasted chicken, Polynesian style 880
*Grilled beef w/Asian herbs 1200

A variety of Vietnamese beers are available, all for 600 yen.

Com Pho is closed on Tuesdays.

The place is available for parties. Choose from three courses: 2,500 - 3,500 - 5,000 yen. You can also add an: 'all you can drink for two hours' course for 1,500 or 2,500 yen.

Address: A one minute walk from the south side of the station. Walk down the South Shopping Street, turn left onto the third small lane. You'll see it on your left. If you pass the meat shop and Mr Donuts on the shopping street, you've gone too far. 1F Ina Bld No.2, 2-13-4, Kitazawa.
Phone: 03-5481-0564
http://www.compho.jp/

There are three other locations: Akasaka, Marunouchi, and Toranomon

17. Store Review: Dorama

2007-02-28T16:42:00.000+09:00

There are actually 7 or more Dorama stores in Shimokita, all with overlapping purposes. Video and video game rental and sales, used and new CD's/DVD's, used book sales,... What I discovered is that there is a really good used English CD selection, and prices are excellent. The best time to shop is when they are running their '200 yen off every used CD' deal. Some of the used CD's I chose were only 400 or 500 yen to begin with. There was also a rack that was 50% the price marked, 70% off if you choose more than 3. From that rack, I got four recent (within the past couple of years) CD's for a total of 1200 yen.

Dorama locations are all over, but most are on the south side of the station.

16. Shop Review: Noce

2007-02-28T16:32:00.000+09:00

Noce is a furniture and home furnishing store. It is a chain with locations around the city. The location in Shimokitazawa has a flea market-like feel. It is cramped and everything is mixed together. Bar stools, end tables, kitchenware, Asian influence blank notebooks, tea candles, large vases,... Although it was cluttered, I had fun searching and there are some good bargains to be had. I bought some really nice glasses for 100 yen each, and pack of 50 tea candles for just over 600 yen. Most of the furniture is too small for a Western style apartment, but there were some really stylish end tables.

Noce is located on the 2nd floor, over the Muji Store on the north side of the station.

15. Restaurant Review: Over Take cafe dining

2007-02-28T16:00:00.000+09:00

Over Take is an Italian restaurant with a European racecar theme. The interior is silver, grey, black, and red; and is decorated with racecar memorabilia/posters. There is also a flat screen TV playing Formula One races. It is a really small place, with two tables for four, four tables for two, and five bar seats. Jazz plays quietly in the background.

There are usually about 5 lunch specials to choose from, all for around 1000 yen, and each comes with a small salad and choice of drink. Lunch is from 11:30 to 16:00 (last order at 15:00).

On the day I was there, some of the choices were:
*Ground meat and cabbage pasta in white wine sauce
*Eggplant and Tomato Spaghetti
*Four types of Mushroom Pizza
*Lasagna

The salad was a variety of lettuce, a large slice of tomato, and a piece of broccoli in a light Italian vinegrette. There were many choices of drinks to choose from (coffees, teas, soft drinks, juices,...)

I had the lasagna, it was delicious and the portion was quite large. The people next to me had the pizza and the cabbage pasta. Both looked good, and were also a decent size. My lasagna came with two small slices of baguette, soft and fluffy with a crunchy crust (as it should be).

I also had a glass of red wine with lunch (420 yen) and, thankfully, it was room temperature, not chilled.

The service was very good, I never had to request more water, neither did anyone else. The food didn't come too quickly or too slowly, and the gentleman working there was very nice.

Dinner is from 18:00 to 24:00 (last order at 23:00). The dinner menu includes:

Draft Beer 580 yen. They also have 16 foreign bottled beers to choose from.
Glass Wine 420 (decanter 940)
Cocktails from 600 yen
Soft Drinks from 300 yen

Pizzas are 1000 yen (Margarita, anchovy & onion, 'nama' ham and cabbage,...)
Hot Dishes are 600 yen (choriso saute', Italian omelet, corn beef and potato croquette)
Other 400-600 yen (green salad, marinated octopus & olives, Scallop carpaccio,...)
Pastas 700-1000 (arabiata, carbonara, smoked salmon in cream sauce, Japanese style clam and mushroom,...)

The menu is completely in Japanese, but 99% of it is katakana. Credit cards are accepted.

Over Take is located below street level, but opens to a basement courtyard. It is a 5 minute walk from the north side of the station. It is closed on Tuesdays.
Address: Daita 6-7-24, Luminus 24 - B1.
Phone: 03-3467-5919

For more info: http://overtake.at.webry.info/

14. Restaurant Review: Sunday Brunch

2007-02-22T17:59:00.000+09:00

Sunday Brunch is very popular with women. On my visit, there was only one man eating there, and the place was full. The decor is simple, but very clean. The ceilings are high, with smooth concrete walls and wood tables.
During lunch, there are usually three choices, each costs 1050 yen. They come with the choice of hot/ice coffee or tea, and an all you can eat 'bread bar'. On the day I was there:

A: mozzarella cheese, basil, and fresh tomato pasta with a shrimp and avocado salad
B: Cabonara gratin rice (a rice casserole)
C: Rice omelet

A lunch dessert can be added for 210 yen (on the day I was there it was New York Style Cheesecake).

The bread bar had a choice of about 6 different breads that I believe are baked on the premises. There is also a selection of jams and butters for those who want to used them. I had a very tasty slice of raisin bread, and another with walnuts, neither needed a topping.

For lunch I chose 'A'. It was delicious and just the right amount for a ladies lunch. It would not have been enough food for a hungry man.
The regular menu has a few other food items to choose from, but Sunday Brunch specializes in a variety of french toast and cakes. The french toast choices looked especially fantastic, but too large once I had eaten lunch. I should have paid attention to the name and come for brunch (which I will do in the near future!)

Sunday Brunch is located above the Deli & Baking Co (see previous blog), and has the same owner. 2F, Kitazawa 2-29-2. Phone: 03-5453-3366

Next to the restaurant is a cute shop of knick knacks.

Sunday Brunch does parties and catering. Customers can also order cakes, some of which change seasonally.

For more info and to see some yummy examples of their desserts: http://www.sundaybrunch.co.jp/

13. Restaurant Review: Hiramon Indian Restaurant

2007-02-16T10:53:00.001+09:00

Hiramon no longer exists.

Hiramon is about a one minute walk from the South Exit of Shimokitazawa Station. It is just down the street from McDonalds and Starbucks (toward Baskin Robbins and KFC). It is located on the 5th floor of the ____ building (elevator goes up to the 4th, walk up one more flight).

The restaurant is a very small, simple place. There are about 6 tables.

Address: Zip 155 Tokyo-to, Setagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-12-13, ___zawa building 5F
Phone: 03-3422-6757 Hours: 11am to 11pm (last order at 10:30)

Lunch Menu: 11am to 2:30pm Mon-Fri
A. Chicken Curry Set
B. Mutton Curry Set
C. Vegetable Curry Set
D. Today’s Special Curry Set
*Choose Naan or Rice. Includes salad and choice of drink. 850 yen

Lunch menu curries are slightly hot. With regular menu items, customers can choose from: mild, slightly hot, medium hot, hot, and very hot.

Hiramon has all the Indian standards, for example: Tandoori chicken 600 yen, Chicken Masala 980 yen, Mutton Curry 1000 yen, Naan 350 yen, ...

They also have special dinner sets:
A. Tandoori Mix Grill 1800 (Mutton curry & chicken keema curry)
B. Tandoori Mix Grill 1800 (vegetable curry & chana masala)
C. Tandoori Mix Grill 2100 (fish curry & prawn curry)
*Sets include naan or rice, salad, and dessert

The drink menu includes beer, wine, shakes, juices, lassy, coffee, tea, soft drinks,...

The food is inexpensive and very tasty. Only one or two people work there, so sometimes service is a little slow. But, they are very friendly. If you have a craving for Indian, this is the place.

12. Restaurant Review: Little Saigon

2007-02-15T18:58:00.000+09:00

In the basement of a building, right near the Mr. Donut is a delicious Vietnamese restaurant, Little Saigon. There are 5 tables for 4 people, 1 table for two, and 1 large table that can seat 7 people. It is a really small place run by a nice 'hippy' Japanese couple.

Their lunch specials are:

*Lemon Grass Fried Rice 900 yen*Pineapple Fried Rice 950 yen

*Lotus root with rice 1050 yen

*Chicken and sweet potato curry 900 yen

(these all come with a cup of soup, mini salad, and mini dessert)

*Chicken or Beef Pho 850 yen

*Fish, Tomato, and Noodle Soup 950 yen

*Crab and rice noodles, fried 900 yen

(these come with a mini salad and mini dessert)

For an extra 300 yen, choose 1 Vietnamese spring roll or 2 fried spring rolls

The lunch menu is all in Japanese, but the dinner menu has pictures and also has the Vietnamese name of the dish in Roman letters.

We have eaten here for lunch and for dinner. Everything is delicious. My very favorite is the eggplant with garlic. We always order Pho and the spring rolls. We have also ordered the lemon grass and pineapple fried rice dishes. Fantastic!

Address: Setagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-19-17

Phone: 03-3414-0076

11. Special Shop Info: Rental Box Shops

2007-02-15T18:48:00.000+09:00

Shimokita has an interesting mix of shops. One type that I really enjoy looking in are 'Rental Box' shops. For a small fee each month (3000 yen and up), anyone can rent a space in the shop. Many college students make their own jewelry, pottery, clothing,... and try to sell them here. I always buy cool Japanese style postcards. The shop pictured here is located right in front of the Peacock supermarket, just outside the north exit of Shimokita Station. Walk a little farther down this same street and there is a much larger rental box shop called 'Flower' located on a 2nd floor, on the right hand side. If you keep your eyes peeled, you'll spot a couple more on the side streets.

10. Shop Review: Wego

2007-02-09T21:12:00.000+09:00

Wego is a store full of used clothes and odd knick knacks. Rockabilly music sets the tone. For Americans especially, it is like stepping back into a time warp. Need a 'Member's Only' Jacket? Wego has a full selection of sizes and colors!

Fortunately, they also have a lot of used jeans, some of them quite long and up to a 35 inch waist. There were also ladies dresses up to size 10.

This is like a funky goodwill store. You never know, you might find something you like. Even if you don't, it is fun to look around!

9. Cafe/Bar Review: Yasai Sakaba

2007-01-27T19:01:00.000+09:00

Up the hill from Shimokitazawa Station's north exit, across from the 'Waffle Cafe' and the 'North Side Cafe', is the 'Yasai sakaba.' It is a long, slender cafe with a covered patio, open on the front. Unless you can read hiragana, you won't be able identify the cafe by its name. No problem, just look for a cluster of large barrels covered by a dark green umbrella. On the barrels is a display of delicious lunch specials. This is THE place to eat in Shimokitazawa if you want an inexpensive, low calorie, super healthy, Japanese style lunch. In fact, 'Yasai' means vegetable and 'saka' ,is the alcohol - sake, and 'ba' is place.

The best deal is their vegetable plate. A large white plate, divided into sections, is full of interesting things to eat. Miso soup and rice are included, all for just 700 yen. If you are worried about what you might get, be sure to take a close look at the display in front before you order. In fact, figure out what you want before entering the cafe. The menu is entirely in Japanese, and there are lots of kanji.

I've eaten the vegetable plate before, it was excellent. This visit I had lightly breaded pieces of maguro (tuna), rice, salad, and miso soup, for 800 yen. I added a decent sized glass of red wine for 350 yen. Happily, the wine was served room temperature. I will be back to eat the maguro again someday, it was very tasty.
On the patio of 'Yasai sakaba' are two tables for four, and five tables for two. Definitely try to sit at one of these if you can. Inside are two long wood counters with lots of stools, and in the very back, a couple of regular tables. Hip, but mellow 'J-Pop' was playing in the background (UA, Hikaru Utada, Bonnie Pink,...). Service was very fast, and the staff was friendly.

Lunch is served from 11:30 to 15:00 during the week, and until 3:30 on weekends and holidays. Dinner is served from 17:00 to 23:30, seven days a week. They are closed on Wednesdays.

Address: Setagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-25-10.
Phone number: 03-5454-0005.

I definitely recommend eating here, especially if you are in the mood for lunch and dessert. When I eat lunch here, I follow with some shopping, and then stop somewhere else later for sweet snack. I don't feel guilty, and I get to really enjoy what Shimokitazawa has to offer!

8. Cafe Review: North Side Cafe

2007-01-27T18:58:00.000+09:00

The North Side Cafe is less than 5 minutes walk from the North exit of Shimokitazawa Station, close to Starbucks.

2-26-21 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku
Tel: 03-5738-3636

Open: 11am to Midnight

You can't miss this cafe. Most of the front wall is made of glass doors that can be opened completely when the weather is nice. The front 3 tables end up outside. Every time I walk by, it is full of people. The atmosphere is chic, and there is usually pulsating dance music playing in the background.

The menu is extensive; Asian, Italian, Mexican,... The lunch specials are all under 1000 yen, and they include a large drink. An example of the lunch specials are displayed right outside, so you can see exactly what you are going to get.

My lunch was very tasty, but it was a strange combination. Carbonara spaghetti (creamy with large bacon chunks), a sausage on a stick, rice, a slice of cucumber, and a slice of avocado tucked inside half a tortilla and topped with salsa. I guess I can't blame them, I had seen the display outside before I ordered.

This might not be the best place for a deep conversation, the music and crowd will be a hindrance. But it is a fun, reasonably priced place to have a tasty lunch.

7. Restaurant Review: Village Vanguard Diner

2007-01-27T18:51:00.000+09:00

Daita 6-3-1, Riverview Shimokitazawa B1F
Tel: 03-3481-5620
http://www.village-v.co.jp/

Open from 11:30am to midnight
Eat in or take out.

The Village Vanguard Diner is very close to the west exit of Shimokitazawa Station, right next to 7-11. They specialize in hamburgers, and they have a large collection of beer from around the world.

Inside, there are a number of booths/tables and a bar counter with 5 stools. The atmosphere is pretty cool. Tin covered walls, with lots of nostalgic American decorations.

Lunch and dinner menus are the same, except at lunch you can add a salad and drink for a little extra. The drink was American sized, in a large glass with ice. The salad was just some lettuce, but the dressing was ranch. I had the BLTE sandwich. It was tasty, but don't order it. The egg yolk comes runny, and your sandwich becomes very, very difficult to eat. The bacon wasn't bacon, it was a thick slice of spam.

The guy next to me was eating a burger, it looked delicious. Considering how quickly he ate it, it must have been good! All sandwiches and burgers come with thin fries.

There were some lunch specials: Jambalaya, taco-rice, and a soup and salad plate. The menu was almost all burgers and sandwiches, but there were a few salads, nachos, and a couple of other items.

6. Restaurant Review: Balboa Cafe

2007-01-27T18:46:00.000+09:00

Balboa Cafe is about a 5 minute walk from Shimokitazawa's South exit.

At lunchtime, there are 3 lunches to choose from, no other menu. The day I was there the choices were: Spaghetti with 'nama' ham and mushrooms, Penne with Parmesan and herbs (and onions), and some type of fish/seafood pasta.

Lunch set A (with bread and coffee) was 950 yen
Lunch set B (with bread, coffee, and salad or dessert) was 1240 yen

The atmosphere was nothing special. With just a little work, it could look like a real Italian cafe. But, it was just too plain, there was little 'atmosphere'.

Salad choices were 'green' or 'tomato'. The green salad was a good size and there was a variety of ingredients. They also offered to top it with grated cheese. The tomato salad was smaller, but the tomatoes were soaked in an olive oil/vinegar dressing - they were fantastic.

For our lunches, we didn't try the Pescatore, but the other two pasta dishes were delicious! Although, I would not recommend this Penne if you dislike onions, it was full of them.

The food was extremely good, I didn't leave feeling like I wanted to visit again. The staff was not that friendly, and as I mentioned above, the atmosphere left something to be desired.

5. Restaurant Review: Ms. Claudia

2007-01-27T18:43:00.000+09:00

Ms. Claudia - La Cucina Nobile & BarSetagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-34-5 150-0031
Tel. 03-3460-4746 Fax. 03-3460-9532
http://www.foods-garden.com/

Ms. Claudia is a short walk from the North exit of Shimokitazawa Station. It is located in a basement, but the restaurant has an open-air patio that lets in natural light. On the patio are two outdoor tables (2 chairs at each table) with an umbrella.

Inside, Ms. Claudia is simple, yet elegant. The interior walls are concrete gray, accented with black, forest green, and cream. The largest wall has a huge display of liquor bottles, lit from behind. There was soothing English music in the background, although I did find the dish washing in the kitchen to be a little noisy.

The front of the restaurant has 3 '4-tops', 1 '3-top', and 1 '6-top'. There is a bar counter with 6 chairs, and against the opposite wall is a long bench lined with about 7 tables (with 7 more chairs). The restaurant was quite busy, most of the clientele were older, well-dressed women.

When I entered, my coat was taken and hung in a closet. I had the 'Claudia Lunch Set' for 990 yen and a side of bread for 100 yen. The set came with a salad, your choice of pasta or a pizza, and a drink. There are more expensive sets available, they include dessert and/or anti pasta,...

The salad was a very good one, there were different types of lettuce, tomato slices, corn, and some herb leaves, in a light vinaigrette. The side of bread was impressive for 100 yen. I was given two thick slices of baguette, with olive oil and Parmesan cheese for dipping. My meal choice was an eggplant and bacon pasta in tomato sauce. It was tasty and filling.

So far, this is the best Italian restaurant I have found in Shimokitazawa, I would definitely recommend it.

4. Shop Review: Robber Gabriera

2007-01-27T18:32:00.000+09:00

Robber Gabriera is located just 2 minutes walk from the north exit of Shimokitazawa Station. It is very close to "Lush".

Setagaya-ku, Kitazawa 2-34-10 Michiru Bld. 1F Phone: 03-3481-6877
Hours of Operation: 11a.m. - 8:30p.m. (weekdays) 11a.m. - 9p.m. (weekdays)

Many of the clothing stores in Shimokitazawa are of no interest to foreigners, mainly because everything is in small sizes and many stores sell only cheap used clothing.

Robber Gabriera is different, there is an interesting combination of goods for sale. Some clothing, some jewelry, some pocketbooks, and some odds and ends. If you are looking for cool t-shirts and jeans with a Japanese flavor, this is the place. They have large size t-shirts and excellent designs. The clothing here would be a huge hit with teens and college kids back home.

I bought a round purse/makeup case made from a pair of used blue jeans for only 1000 yen. I also bought a stylish men's necklace for 1500 yen.

Before visiting home, I plan to stop here again to pick up some t-shirts, they'll make great gifts.

3. Restaurant Review: Chicken Amrita

2007-01-27T18:29:00.000+09:00

THE OWNERS OF CHICKEN AMRITA HAVE CHANGED. IT IS STILL SOUTHEAST ASIAN, BUT THE MENU HAS A LOT MORE TO CHOOSE FROM. THE INTERIOR HAS BEEN REDONE, AND WE OVERHEARD THE YOUNG WOMAN COOKING SAY THAT SHE HAD HOMESTAYED IN THAILAND AND THAT HER 'MOTHER' HAD TAUGHT HER HOW TO COOK LOTS OF THAI STANDARDS. I'LL UPDATE UPON EATING THERE AGAIN.

Chicken Amrita is a simple, yet cozy Asian cafe. There are only 3 tables (seating four each) and 5 seats at the counter. There is also a very limited menu, but everything is fabulous!

There are three main choices on the menu:
1) Gaomangai (Thai chicken over rice) - served boiled (780 yen) or grilled (880 yen), or a combination of both for 900 yen
2) Thai noodle soup (Similar to Vietnamese Pho) 750 yen
3) A combination of the above - around 1000 yen

There are a few other items, but mostly just sides that you can add on.

Whenever I have a taste for something simple, inexpensive, delicious, and healthy, I visit Chicken Amrita. I usually order #3. For an extra 200 yen, customers can get a salad - different each day (ex. daikon and cucumber in Thai dressing) and drink (ex. iced chai tea). And, for an extra 80 yen on top of that, customers get dessert - also different each day (ex. coconut ice cream).

Water is served in really cold metal glasses. It tastes really good that way!

A limited selection of alcohol is available. Draft beer (530 yen), bottled Thai beer (630 yen), Glass of wine (400 yen), or Cassis flavored drinks.There is also Vietnamese or Balinese coffee for 500 yen. Mango, Basil Seed, Grape, or Apple juice for 550 yen. And, a few types of tea (Chai, Oolong,...)

The staff is friendly and attentive. The menu is only in Japanese, but with so few items, I'm sure the staff can help explain things. Portion sizes are just right for most, especially if you get the salad/drink/dessert combination. Big eaters should have a few beers first, or order a little something extra.

Address: Daizawa 5-29-8, 5 minutes walk from the south exit of Shimokita Station, very close to the famous corner flower shop.

Hours of Operation: noon to 10pm, closed weekdays from 3pm to 5pm

Telephone: 03-3411-0141

2. Cafe Review: Deli & Baking Co.

2007-01-27T18:23:00.000+09:00

Deli & Baking Co. 1F, 2-29-2 Kitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 03-5453-1313

A five minute walk from the North Exit of Shimokitazawa Station.

Soothing jazz and Christmas tunes (it was December) were playing in the background. Walls are smooth gray concrete, with large picture windows overlooking the street. Nostalgic advertising posters (in English), decorate those walls. There are white counter tables and stools (about 30) and silver circular tables for 2 (about 12). The atmosphere is clean, airy, and not at all Japanese.

As you enter, incredible desserts are displayed in and on the deli counter - huge, amazing popovers, french toast, muffins, and scones. There is also a selection of regular cakes and pies. Everything is baked fresh each morning, on site. All desserts are available for 'take-out'.

There is also a stylish "Beer Bar" in one corner, but it was not open - possibly just a decoration.

For lunch, I had the "Deli Plate Set". Customers choose 1 of each from A (a vegetable), B (a meat or fish dish), C (a hot item) + rice or bread + drink 980 yen.

I chose: A (tomato and mozzarella cheese), B (lasagna), C (Oriental chicken). A strange combination, I know, but I couldn't read what type of chicken it was, it just looked delicious.

Everything was delicious and the portion size was just perfect for an average female (but not enough for most men, or anyone used to American sized portions). If you still have room in your stomach, I would strongly recommend having dessert, they are definitely 'American-sized'!

They also have a 'Soup Set': Choice of soup + choice of salad + rice or bread + drink (800 yen). And a 'Sweets Set': Choice of dessert inside the deli counter (regular cakes and pie slices, not the popovers, french toast, muffins, or scones) and drink for 700 yen.

Customers can also order a la carte.
Other menu items include:
*Sandwiches: BLT & Egg, Caribbean Chicken, Avocado/Bacon/Cheese,... (all around 700 yen)*Rice Bowl Dishes: Spicy Chicken Curry, Taco Rice, and 2 types of Loco Moco (all 800 yen)*Soup: Tomato Clam Chowder, Corn Cream Soup, + 2 soups of the day (all around 400 yen)

Lots of drinks to choose from, including draft beer and a variety of coffees/teas.

I choose a stool at a counter at the window, facing outside. Just in front is a lovely flower shop/clothing store (same owner as the deli) and a narrow, pedestrian only street. The spot is perfect for watching the parade of 'Shimokitazawa fashion' walking by.

The deli has been open for over 15 years. It is owned by a lovely lady named Etsuko Ueda, who owns a number of other cafes in Shimokitazawa and around Tokyo. Ms. Ueda speaks great English. If she is around, she can answer any questions that you might have. The staff, while not fluent, also did their best to help explain the set system and choices. Labels for the choices of the lunch set are only in Japanese, but most are easily identifiable just by looking.

I do not know if the sets are available in the evening, this was the one question that I forgot to ask.I would strongly recommend visiting the Deli & Baking Co. It is best for ladies having lunch, or for anyone who wants an incredible dessert!

1. Cafe/Bar Review: Kamera

2007-01-27T18:17:00.000+09:00

When I go out to lunch by myself, I usually try to choose somewhere I have never eaten. Although I like to eat at the cool outdoor cafes and other obvious choices, I also like to try those places most foreigners are afraid to enter. From the outside, something tempts you, but fear of what lies inside stops most from entering. Kamera is one of those places.

Kamera is located on the north side of Shimokitazawa Station, on the 2nd floor of a busy corner. It has large windows on two sides, both of which look out over the people in the alleys below. I chose it because I wanted to relax, have a snack, and people watch. They had a square green sign outside with photos of their lunch specials, a list of drinks offered, and a cake set. The signs are in Japanese, but a smaller menu hangs there, and it is completely translated into English.

Inside the decor is 'hippy-clutter', with a large peace flag and Bob Marley/Jimmy Hendrix posters decorating the walls. There is a tatami area with a table for four and two smaller tables for two. You have to sit on the floor, but there is a good view of the street. There is also an 'L' shaped bar with about 10 stools. And, against the other window, there is a long counter. There were no stools here, but since the place was pretty empty, I asked if I could move a stool and sit watching the street. It wasn't a problem.
Creating some ambiance was a big screen TV playing music videos. Jamie Cullum was on at the time. The two staff members were young men dressed in knit caps and leather/bead jewelery. One of them spoke a little English.

I think the 2 lunch specials are the same each day, green chicken curry and a Thai rice dish with ground meat and basil. Both come with salad and soup for 680 yen. Add hot coffee or hot tea for another 100 yen. I didn't have either, but they looked good.

The dessert set gave you a choice of 'rare' cheesecake with raspberry sauce or chocolate cake. And, hot coffee or tea for 750 yen. if you don't want lunch or the dessert set, there are a lot of drinks to choose from, including a bunch of cocktails.

Kamera is cluttered and not so special, but since it is on the 2nd floor, it is quieter than most places that have a view of the Shimokita crowds. The music was good and so was my cheesecake. I plan to try one of the lunch specials someday.