5 Best Restaurants in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo

This is possibly the best coffee in the neighborhood since that is essentially all they sell (save some branded merchandise). Sit on old wooden benches in this tiny establishment that feels as if it's both in the now, and from long ago. Look for the cute neon bear they have as their sign.

Stop by and watch some specialty donuts being fried before your eyes. The giant cone outside reminds you that you can also get ice cream (soft-serve only), and there's coffee, too. Sit outside and watch the world go by as you get your sugar fix.

On one of Shimokitazawa's main shopping streets you'll find one of the areas many curry shops with an open and airy front, and both table and counter seating (in case you want to watch them cook). Unlike many Japanese curries, these tend to be heavier on the vegetables.

If you're looking for a quick coffee near Shimokitazawa Station, Norah's can offer you a place for people-watching and some good snacks. While the drink selection is mostly coffee, they do have tea, make an Irish coffee, and serve wine and beer.

What's a soup curry? You'll find out when you customize your order sheet by choosing your curry (bacon and cabbage, mushroom, or chicken); your soup base (tomato, shrimp, or "Japanese," the base to many soupy Japanese foods); your preferred spice level (from 0–7); optional toppings like avocados, an egg, or fried mushrooms; and finally the amount of rice you'd like with your soup.