Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on June 2014
The metropolis has one of the top dining scenes in the world—including alfresco eateries in abundance. As the summer heats up, it’s a great time to throw on some shades, clutch a cool drink and watch the world go by as you nibble on some nosh with friends.
Canal Café (Iidabashi)
Built alongside a historical boathouse, this attractive dockside café features Italian fare such as pizza, pasta and panini (¥600-800), a selection of beverages and a tempting dessert case. The real draw, however, is the sweeping river vista. Bring your camera and wait for a Chuo line train to snake by to enjoy a quintessential Tokyo landscape.
1-9 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku. Tel: 03-5227-1277. Nearest stn: Iidabashi. canalcafe.jp
Costa Latina (Komaba)
Move over, Brazilian churrasco: on this charming rooftop terrace, it’s all about asado—the Argentinian version of barbecue (¥4,000/person). Additional course menus available (¥1,900-3,300/person), as are à la carte Latin fusion options such as spicy Mexican pizza featuring jalapeno and cactus pads (¥1,250) and crispy deep-fried cassava root (¥650). The four-story complex includes an event space, a big-screen TV, salsa lessons and nonstop Latin music. It’s like Miami—minus the beach.
1-16-12 Komaba, Meguro-ku. Tel: 03-5465-0404. Nearest stn: Komaba Todai-mae/Ikejiri Ohashi/Shinsen. costa-latina.com
Delirium (Kasumigaseki)
If you fancy fruity Belgian brews, consider an evening on the terrace of this café tucked inside the swanky Kasumi Dining complex. Over 100 types of draft and bottled beer are available, imported directly from family-owned Belgian brewers. Traditional eats include lamb accompanied by a tangle of wild arugula (¥1,2
40 for two chops), mussels steamed in your choice of sauce (including beer) from ¥1,480, and fries with three dipping sauces (¥600). Just don’t blame your hangover on us.
3-2-6 Kasumigaski, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 03-3501-3181. Nearest stn: Toranomon. deliriumcafe.jp/tokyo
Good Morning Café (Nishikicho)
Recently opened by the good folks at GMC Sendagaya, you’ll find everyone from brunching artist-intellectuals to families with dogs and kids on this sprawling terrace. Lunch includes five different sets (¥900-1,200), and the numerous dinner options include a towering burger (¥1,000) best enjoyed with the addictive herb fries (¥500)—you’ve been warned. Branches in Ikebukuro, Nakano and Toranomon.
Nishiko-cho 3-20, Chiyoda-ku. Tel: 03-5283-8170. Nearest stn: Jimbocho. gmc-nishiki.com
Hacienda del Cielo (Daikanyama)
You’ll feel like a VIP walking through the chic Daikanyama streets and being shuttled to the 9th floor via sleek elevator—but once you reach the stunning rooftop terrace, the vibe is pure laid-back chill. Typical Mexican eatery fare includes tacos (¥700/two) and fajitas (¥1,500), plus numerous platillos, or small dishes (¥300 to ¥500 each), and generous lunch sets (¥1,000). Book ahead for a private table with a view—or a large sofa corner, great for kids. Online reservations recommended, or take your chances and enjoy a cerveza or cocktail as you take in the breathtaking cityscape and wait.
9F Mansard Daikanyama Bldg, 10−1 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku. Tel: 03−5457−1521. Nearest stn: Daikanyama. modern-mexicano.jp/hacienda
Suji’s (Roppongi)
New York deli cravings, begone. Whether it’s tender and flavorful pastrami (¥1,500), voluminous omelets (¥1,300-1,700) or even crazy sushi rolls (¥900), a trip to Suji’s is a slice of Americana right here. Expect crowds during weekend brunch hours. Menu changes periodically—call to be sure they’ve got what you’re hankering for. Kids’ menu also available.
3-1-5 Azabudai, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3505-4490. Nearest stn: Roppongi Itchome. sujis.net
Two Rooms grill bar (Omotesando)
The terrace here is smooth personified. Think lounge music, sleek wooden decor, and cocktails including mojitos out of practically every fruit in existence (from ¥1,500). Several seasonal menus for various budgets and tastes, from “bar bites” (¥1,100-3,900) to full meals (¥3,800 up to ¥12,500 for premium beef cuts). Huge oysters with various flavor infusions run ¥650-1,150 each, while more unusual offerings include prosciutto-wrapped frogs’ legs (¥1,850). Also great for lunch.
5F AO Bldg, 3-11-7 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku. Tel: 03-3498-0002. Nearest stn: Omotesando. tworooms.jp/en
T.Y. Harbor Brewery (Shinagawa)
Next time you visit the immigration office, treat yourself to a meal at this lovely restaurant hugging the Shinagawa canals. Sister to several metropolitan eateries including Cicada in Omotesando (see sidebar), the complex was renovated from warehouses that were in turn restored from factories hit during the WWII air raids. Watch boats cruising by as you enjoy your beer (¥550-1,250 by the glass)—brewed on the premises—along with California-inspired starters (¥1,500-1,900) and mains (¥2,600-4,000). Lunch specials available (¥1,000-3,000). Bakery and casual café located on the premises, as is Tokyo’s only floating bar.
2-1-3 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku. Tel: 03-5479-4555. Nearest stn: Tennozu Isle. meturl.com/tyharbor
