[2025 Latest] 10 Recommended Kominka Cafés in Tokyo! Enjoy a Relaxing Time in Retro, Nostalgic Spaces!

Kominka Café.

A slightly retro and nostalgic space that somehow feels refreshingly new.

In recent years, young couples and women visiting kominka cafés have been rapidly increasing.

The traces of time etched into the beams and pillars, paired with a single cup of coffee brewed with care, warmly welcome you and your loved ones.

Here at TOKYO LOCAL, we have carefully selected and are introducing 10 recommended kominka cafés in Tokyo.

If you’ve been feeling the need for a soothing escape from your busy life, this list is perfect for you.

Why not spend your next day off in a unique space that blends the serene atmosphere of traditional Japanese style with modern sensibilities?

Hamoribi

A kominka café located in Asakusabashi, created by renovating a 70-year-old sake shop.

When people mention “kominka cafés in Tokyo,” this well-known establishment often comes to mind first.

The exterior retains a subtle atmosphere reminiscent of its sake shop days.

The interior is mainly table seating with nostalgic Showa-era retro decor, blended with a touch of modernity.

Their chicken curry is highly recommended.

The café also offers a variety of coffees from around the world.

When you order, your coffee is served on stylish kumiko coasters and in carefully selected cups, making it perfect for Instagram photos.

Of course, their in-house roasted coffee tastes exceptional as well.

This kominka café is great for couples or friends, but it’s also comfortable enough to visit solo.

Engawa Café

Located in Adachi City, Tokyo, this kominka café is housed in the veranda of the nationally registered tangible cultural property, “Showa no Ie.”

It’s popular as a café where you can enjoy delicious sweets while gazing at a Japanese garden, available only on weekday afternoons

As the name suggests, the defining feature of this café is the “engawa” (veranda).

The veranda of the house is lined with two-person chairs and tables.

Additionally, the adjacent tatami room is also open as a café space, so you can choose based on the size of your group.

Their homemade tarts are a must-try.

The fruit used changes with the seasons.

As it’s a bit of a distance from the nearest station, “Takenotsuka Station,” this café offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Enjoy the seasonal scenery from the veranda during your visit.

Kominka Café Koguma

A kominka café created by renovating a pharmacy built in 1972.

Inside, you’ll find shelves and drawers that were once part of the pharmacy, preserving the nostalgic atmosphere.

The wooden bear-shaped sign outside is also adorable (center-left in the photo).

The interior has a nostalgic and cozy feel.

Their “Baked Omelet” is a standout item.

This original dish, certified by the Sumida Brand, features a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, offering a delightful texture contrast.

Since its opening in 2006, this café has been featured on numerous TV programs and has become a famous spot. It’s highly recommended, especially for dates.

Kominka Cafe Rengetsu

A wooden traditional-style cafe located right next to Ikegami Honmonji Temple.

Originally a soba noodle shop called “Rengetsu-an” beloved by temple visitors, it was renovated in 2015 into its current form as a cafe.

The menu offers a wide variety of options, including coffee and hojicha pudding, but the lunch menu is especially recommended.

The cafe’s lunch options are hearty and satisfying, making it a great choice even for those with larger appetites.

Another popular item is their French toast, served starting from 3:00 PM.

Many patrons specifically visit the cafe during this time to enjoy it.

The retro ambiance inside is charming as well!

This cafe, often used as a filming location for dramas and movies, is worth visiting if you’re in the area.

Shouan Bunko

A book cafe and gallery-style kominka cafe near Nishi-Ogikubo Station.

The shop’s centerpiece is a 100-year-old azalea tree in the garden.

The cafe’s morning menu is also recommended, particularly the “Luxurious Kama Bread Toast” on a single plate, which is quite popular.

Of course, visiting during lunchtime for a relaxed experience is also fine.

For lunch, the “Farmer Yamazaki’s Rice Set” is a popular choice.

This dish uses the “Hinata no Tsubu” variety of Koshihikari rice grown by the Yamazaki Rice Farm in Ibaraki.

The side dishes and main meal vary daily.

This cafe offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing from the morning.

Kosoan

Located near Jiyugaoka Station, this kominka cafe was renovated from a former tea house.

Originally built in Showa 29 (1954) as a tea house, it was reopened in Heisei 11 (1999) as a tea salon.

The name was given by Matsuo Yoru, the novelist and son-in-law of Natsume Soseki.

Inside the cafe, the seating style features tatami mats, offering a traditional Japanese experience.

A popular recommendation is the seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) paired with matcha in the “Matcha with Wagashi Set.”

Another frequently ordered item is “Anmitsu,” a traditional Japanese dessert.

The architecture and atmosphere exude Japanese charm, making this cafe a perfect spot for a calming break.

It’s an excellent choice for a quiet date.

Kayaba Coffee

A cafe located near Nezu Station in a townhouse over 100 years old.

Its structure features a “dashigeta-zukuri” style, reminiscent of old architecture.

The cafe is a two-story building, with table seating on the first floor and tatami seating on the second floor.

One of the most popular menu items is the “Egg Toast.”

This sandwich, filled with thick slices of rolled omelet, is hearty and satisfying.

Another favorite is the “Custard Pudding,” which has a retro appearance and nostalgic taste.

Indulge your sweet tooth with its generous whipped cream topping.

Due to its popularity, the cafe often gets crowded. To secure a seat, it’s recommended to make a reservation before visiting.

Kissan Nikai

A kominka cafe that opened in 2019 in Nippori.

The first floor of the cafe is a shop selling pottery and other items.

The interior is not only retro and nostalgic but also features a stylish space with blue walls.

The cafe’s biggest draw is its sparkling, colorful cream sodas.

There are three varieties: the basic green “Melon Cream Soda,” the beautifully red “Raspberry Float,” and the cafe’s signature blue “Nikai Cream Soda,” each offering a different visual appeal.

These drinks match the cafe’s blue walls perfectly, making them great for Instagram photos.

It’s also a fun place for girls to chat about love while enjoying the retro vibe!

TAYORI

A cafe built in a renovated old Japanese house near Sendagi Station.

It’s more of a place to enjoy meals than just coffee.

The recommended dish is the “Weekly Set Meal.”

The “Chicken Cutlet Set Meal” is also a popular choice.

Of course, there are drinks available as well, making it suitable for a casual cafe experience.

It’s a comfortable spot for both female lunch gatherings and for men visiting solo.

During weekends, there may be long lines, with waiting times exceeding an hour, but it’s still a place worth visiting.

It’s the kind of cafe that you’ll want to return to regularly.

Spice Cafe

A spice-based cafe located a little away from Oshiage Station, renovated from an old traditional house.

It’s a popular spot for delicious curry.

The owner-chef of this cafe learned authentic spice cuisine in Italy, India, and Sri Lanka, and serves dishes made with those influences.

The recommended menu is the “Curry Lunch.”

This hearty dish is satisfying and filling.

The cafe retains the retro feel of a traditional home, giving it a comforting, homey atmosphere.

As a result, some customers end up staying for longer than planned…

For those busy with their daily lives, this old house cafe in the middle of a residential area offers a peaceful and relaxing lunch break.

Summary

We’ve introduced 10 truly great kominka cafes in Tokyo. Have you found the one you’re looking for?

Each of these cafes is a must-visit and highly recommended. If you’re looking for a kominka cafe in Tokyo, be sure to check them out!