When it comes to food and drink, Shimokitazawa – nicknamed ‘Shimokita’ – does not disappoint. This cool neighbourhood is dotted with quirky cafés, bars, izakayas (Japanese pubs), and eclectic eateries – perfect for a relaxed lunch, cold beer, or evening wind-down. 

Beyond clothing, Shimokita is also home to some of the best artisanal coffee shops in all of Tokyo. So it’s a must to check out some of the specialty coffee hotspots this hub has within while you're wandering through the area. 

Walking through, you’re also bound to stumble across countless tantalising street food stalls offering mouthwatering twists on Japanese classics, and the cool Shimokitazawa Night Market – open about once a week – which takes place inside the ‘Shimokitazawa Cage’ (an odd, but now famous fenced-off rectangular space). 

This bazaar of imported knick-knacks, second-hand clothing – and the iconic Asian food stall and bar Long Va Quan – is about a minute's walk away from Shimokitazawa station and recognisable by its rainbow of colourful chairs and tables that perfectly reflect Shimokitazawa’s eclectic vibe. It’s a place where you can take your plate of goodies and rest from a day of exploration while taking in the dynamic atmosphere, and one of the ways to sample myriad Japanese street snacks in one go.

Shimokita Senrogai Open Space is also one of Shimokitazawa’s best street food spots, and a great location where you can settle in for a sunset session with a craft beer, and savour some local and international bites.

If you’re looking for something more specific though – or a hidden local gem –  we do have some tasty food and drink favourites that have crossed our paths and made an impression.

It’s impossible to list everything this awesome little pocket of Tokyo has to offer, but here are a few foodie hotspots, cafes and bars where you can start your culinary journey. 

Dive into the heartbeat of Tokyo’s trendsetting Shimokitazawa district with a stay at illi Shimokitazawa, where every inch of this boutique apartment hotel echoes the area's vibrant, eclectic spirit.

This intimate retreat features just four distinctive rooms, each capturing a unique slice of Shimokitazawa’s dynamic culture – from its bold street art to its lively music scene; and whether you're traveling solo or with a group of up to six friends, its a cosy base that promises a luxurious yet playful escape. 

Blending contemporary design with creature comforts, you can relax in style within an open-plan haven, complete with sleek white decor, a plush leather couch, and modern self-catering amenities like a mini kitchen. 

It’s a chic sanctuary here, where the seamless flow of space invites you to unwind, reconnect, and revel in the local ambiance, so the perfect place to retreat to after a day immersed in the neighbourhood’s colourful energy. 

A boutique gem perfectly that balances modern elegance with neighbourhood charm, and a place from which to explore this fascinating neighbourhood and Tokyo’s artistic soul.

Right in the heart of Shimokitazawa, renown as Tokyo’s artistic epicenter, MUSTARD™ Hotel Shimokitazawa offers more than just a stylish stay – it’s a vibrant hub where creativity and modern luxury meet. 

This striking hotel, brought to life by the visionary General Design, combines sleek, contemporary architecture with a cosy, inviting ambiance, and guests can choose from an array of rooms  – from chic bunk-bed setups to plush suites with private balconies. 

The hotel's commitment artistic flair even extends to its immersive environment, featuring everything from ongoing art exhibitions and live performances, to personal record players, and a vast collection of over 300 vinyl records available to get your groove on.

Start your mornings with artisanal coffee at The Sidewalk Coffee Roasters and wind down at Bar Kurage with craft beers and natural wines after a day of exploration in Shimokita’s mesmerising, murals-adorned streets. 

Also perfectly positioned just steps from Higashikitazawa and Shimokitazawa stations, it’s the perfect location from which to explore this corner of Tokyo teeming with vintage boutiques and culinary discoveries. 

Sidewalk Coffee Roasters

For a morning that combines charm and relaxation, Sidewalk Coffee Roasters is it – a spot tucked away within the stylish and minimalist confines of Hotel Mustard. 

This hidden gem, located along the historic train tracks that once guided travellers to Shimokitazawa Station, serves exceptional drip coffee and awesome organic bagels in an al-fresco setting, on its sun-drenched terrace. Just chilled – and the perfect place to sit, sip, and people watch. 

Ballon d'Essai‍

Once you’ve had your caffeine hit, wander through to the connecting outdoor market Reload, to really get your day going.  ‍

This is essentially a latte gallery. This cosy getaway is where you can enjoy coffee made for you, with an artistic twist. 

The expert barista here specialises in ‘design lattes’ where you can get your cup with a cute animal ‘drawn’ on top to match. 

The creative visual vibe of this shop goes with its quirky name ('trial balloon' in English), and even spills out onto the walls all around – which are decorated with striking paintings by established and up-and-coming artists. If that makes you feel inspired, then you can even sign up for one of their latte art workshops. The beginners' course is available any time.‍

Hi Monsieur‍

If you happen to stray just 15-mins away from Shimokitazawa Station along your exploratory travels, then you’ll come across this fantastic little hideaway. 

Stepping in here, through it’s rustic wooden door, feels like being swept away into another world – where an unimaginable number of eclectic knick knacks, Yokohama’s Tera Coffee, baked goods from Higuchi Noriko, and cinnamon sugar doughnuts from My Picnic collide. On hot days, you can also tuck into the homemade ice cream here. What’s not to love? ‍

Moldive / Maldive‍

For a taste of coffee steeped in tradition, wander over to Moldive (or Maldive), the neighbourhood roastery that has been infusing the streets with its rich, roasted aroma since 1984. 

This cosy corner shop, with its charmingly vintage Fuji roaster, continues to delight coffee aficionados with every brew. 

Owner Toru Oikawa, inspired by his childhood fascination with kissaten – those quaint tearooms serving a nostalgic blend of coffee, cigarettes, and curry – embarked on a journey to master the art of roasting. His mission? To weave exceptional coffee into the fabric of daily life, making it a cherished ritual for the community. Needless to say, he’s succeeded. 

Bookends Coffee Service

Discover the cozy charm of Bookends Coffee Service, a beloved hideaway just a short stroll from Shimokitazawa Station’s South Exit.

This spot is popular with the locals, and it shows – it’s alway packed. Worth it though , for a relaxed coffee experience where you can enjoy everything from affordable to-go brews to a leisurely pause in a snug, eclectic setting. With its cool mix of old records spinning classic pop tunes, mismatched chairs, and an array of memorabilia, Bookends is the perfect spot for striking up a conversation with a friendly local or simply observing the world outside. 

In addition to your rich, freshly brewed coffee, you can also indulge in housemade cakes and cookies, all while soaking in the inviting atmosphere. 

And for those who want to recreate the experience at home, freshly roasted coffee beans are also available here for purchase. Bonus. ‍

Bear Pond Espresso‍

We couldn’t mention coffee in this post without a nod to the world-famous Bear Pond Espresso. 

This hidden gem nestled in the trendy Shimokitazawa district, is unassuming, but probably the most renown coffee shop in the area, if not Japan - and it also has a following of coffee lovers around the globe. 

This renowned café, though modest in its exterior – a mere façade of simplicity with worn wooden floors and minimal decor – unveils a treasure inside: courtesy of one-of-a-kind owner and barista Katsuyuki Tanaka. 

Katsuyuki "Katsu" Tanaka’s celebrated espresso, is famously adorned with a signature “Angel’s stain” drop, as featured in 'A Film About Coffee' – a short, pretty doco by filmmaker Jake Davis about Tanaka. 

His signature is a drop of espresso running down the side of each cup – this is the ‘Angel's Stain’. Espresso artistry. Essentially, it’s a unique way of pulling espresso, a must-drink shot for globe-trotting coffee aficionados and casual sippers alike – but rather than explain it, just head there and try. 

It was worth making a movie about – so bets are, you won’t regret it. 

Mikan Shimokita complex‍

If you just can’t choose what to sink your teeth into – then head to the ever-evolving Mikan Shimokita – the vibrant new hub that sprang to life in Shimokita in 2022. 

Cleverly named after the Japanese term "mikansei," meaning "unfinished," this dynamic shopping and dining complex mirrors the neighbourhood's constant transformation, and is always adding new things to try. But one thing remains constant: a tantalising array of global flavours and eclectic shopping experiences. 

Here you’ll find loads of restaurants and diverse street food stalls – so everything from Thai and Korean delights to Vietnamese fare, to artisanal treats from popular local bakeries, or slices of American-style pizza on offer. 

If you just want a break, or need somewhere to study (or work?) then you can also dive into the cosy atmosphere of Tsutaya bookstore, which you’ll find at the end of the strip, and hosts a luxury "share lounge". A fresh adventure awaits every time you visit.

Hashiri

This renown restaurant – dubbed ‘Hashiri’ after the first of the season, which is also called ‘Hatsumono’ in Japanese – is the Tokyo extension of a celebrated San Francisco eatery, which earned Michelin acclaim for three consecutive years before making its way to Japan. 

Once a name associated with a members-only culinary destination, Hashiri has now opened its doors to all, and specialises in meticulously crafted omakase courses featuring exquisite sushi and kaiseki-style dishes; all curated by Chef Tokunori Mekaru, who brings his expertise from the original Hashiri in San Francisco. 

You’ll find it in the Shimokitazawa 'reload' mall, and enjoy the freshest sushi, all sourced from the famous Toyosu Fish Market – and complemented by a thoughtfully selected array of 120 wines chosen by the in-house sommelier. A celebration of the season’s finest, now presented in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.  

Torisoba Soruto

For a taste of traditional Japanese flavours, dive into a bowl of chicken shio (salt) ramen at Torisoba Soruto –  a pocket-sized eatery where you can full up for just 650 yen. 

Delicious, cheap and cheerful. If you’re extra hungry then just order up a plate of gyoza to go with. ‍

Bonus Track 

Just a short 5-minute stroll from Shimokitazawa Station's southeast exit, you’ll find this little extra. A charming urban oasis at Bonus Track, this delightful enclave is a must, and designed by the award-winning Tsubame Architects.

Essentially, this little hidden gem feels like a town within a town; a collection of a dozen eclectic shops and cafes arranged around a picturesque courtyard. 

Here you can find artisanal sake, freshly squeezed juices, taste some Taiwanese street food, or enjoy a craft beer while flipping through rare books. Just mix and match your favourites and unwind at cosy outdoor tables or within the inviting indoor spaces. With so much to offer within a cute little package, it’s no wonder that Bonus Track has become a local favourite since its debut in October 2020.

A celebrated hub known for its unique finds and creative flair, this place – designed as a new form of “regional publicity” for private businesses and artists – offers a truly refreshing alternative to Tokyo’s typical shopping experience. 

Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory – Tokyo’s famous Totoro Cream Puffs

If you’re after something a bit sweeter – and not just in taste, then step into the whimsical world of Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory, a delightful haven tucked away in the Setagaya/Shimokitazawa area, where magic meets pastry. 

This charming café bakery brings Studio Ghibli’s beloved Totoro to life in the form of irresistible cream puffs, each one a masterpiece of seasonal flavours like strawberry, peach, and chocolate. Note: Studio Ghibli is one of the most acclaimed animation studios in the world, and known to everyone in Japan.

This little wonderland is a small building set over two floors. As you descend into the cosy bakery downstairs, you’ll discover a treasure trove of homemade Totoro-themed goodies (and cookies too) that you can get in a takeaway box, perfect for gifting or indulging once you get back to your hotel. But additionally, you can also head upstairs to the inviting café, where you can relax with a cup of tea and enjoy your adorable treat in a serene setting. 

With its picturesque terrace and artisanal atmosphere, Shiro-Hige’s is a hidden gem for Studio Ghibli fans and anyone seeking a bit of an enchanting escape mid or post-shop.

Mother

If you don't know where you're going, you probably won't find this one. But once you do, chances are you'll love it.

Only distinguishable at street level by a small sign, and located in a basement down some stairs and via a dragon-like door knob, you’ll find this secret bar – a friendly Japanese pub and the oldest rock bar in Shimokitazawa.

This hidden gem exudes mysterious charm from the outset. It’s an eclectic spot to say the least; and with its enchanting Gaudi-esque décor (thanks to vibrant mosaics), plus intricate woodwork – it’s got a captivating atmosphere reminiscent of a psychedelic treehouse, which you won’t soon forget. 

Open since 1972, this well-loved establishment offers a fusion of exceptional drinks and a mix of delectable Asian cuisine, plus pub favourites like awesome nachos, and even vegan and vegetarian delights. 

As you sip on their signature “mori” cocktail – served from a unique skull-shaped bottle –enjoy a cool playlist of classic rock and reggae, including legends such as Sly and the Family Stone, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, etc. on vinyl in the background. But – if you’re not happy with that, this place is so chilled that you can also even bring your own CDs for them to play to enhance your individual experience. 

Essentially, kitsch, chilled – and a must-visit for an unforgettable night out in Tokyo.‍

The Suzunari ‍

Perched at one end of Ichibangai Chazawa-dori Street, this old theatre, a few doors down from Union Records, is a Shimokitazawa icon. 

One of several spots belonging to the Honda Gekijo Group – which runs a variety of small-scale theatres around the Shimokitazawa Station – this particular location was founded in 1981 by Honda Gekijo Group head Honda Kazuo as a rehearsal room for his actor's school.

It’s the troupe's oldest theatre and a Shimokita landmark. While it's celebrated for its vibrant stage performances and its role as a flagship of Japanese contemporary theatre, the real allure lies just beyond the stage: the bustling array of bars on the first floor.

The historic theater beckons locals and visitors alike to unwind in its lively yokocho – an intimate hallway brimming with small, eclectic bars and eateries. Once you arrive, step into this charming enclave to savour a drink, engage in lively conversation, and experience the authentic heart of Shimokitazawa's nightlife.

It’s a real community experience, and the perfect location for meeting some locals over some sake.