01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Stepping inside Coffee Kokoro reveals a tranquil interior where the atmosphere of the Showa period lingers quietly. Long established along a street in Hongo, this traditional coffee shop serves a nostalgic menu of light fare alongside vintage kissaten staples.
For a quick bite, the homemade sandwiches are a natural choice. The menu spans classic egg sandwiches, ham sandwiches, and combination egg-and-ham options, alongside crisp toasted sandwiches. Portions are hearty by default, though half-size orders accommodate lighter appetites. Another enduring, unpretentious house favorite is the wiener rice—a simple dish of red cocktail sausages and stir-fried cabbage served over rice.
The food pairs well with deep-bodied, pleasantly bitter coffee, served hot or iced. The beverage selection also includes quintessential retro cafe drinks such as vibrant cream sodas, various ice cream floats, and milkshakes. For dessert, strawberry-and-blueberry cake or thick pancakes round out a relaxed afternoon.
Open from midday until early evening on weekdays, the cafe permits smoking throughout all seating areas. Payment is cash only, making it a spot best approached with coins and banknotes in hand.
