Shimokitazawa or Shimo as she is affectionately known is the hub in Tokyo for cool, hip and trendy. This quarter in Tokyo is that effortlessly cool-kid who attracts swarms of people but is unpretentious. It was recently named the 2nd coolest neighbourhood in the world according to CNN's Timeout:
"Shimokitazawa is to Tokyo what Brooklyn is to New York, only cooler," says Time Out, which sounds like a call to action to us. If you'd rather bypass the speed of central Tokyo but still be near good public transit, Shimokitazawa is your spot.Time Out gives the neighborhood the nod for top-notch Japanese curry restaurants like Ten To Sen as well as vintage shopping."
Luckily, we managed to find an apartment 2 minutes from the station and I've never felt more alive in Tokyo. It's electric! Shimokita is famous for many things but if I had to pinpoint it would be: pre-loved brand fashion, food, coffee and people-watching. Here is a guide to some of my favourite places;
Food, Drinks and everything Delicious:
1. Sunday Brunch.
Aesthically speaking, Sunday Brunch is beautiful. Concrete walls, greenery, high ceilings and delicious and always filled with trendy people. There is usually a line as soon as they open, so be prepared to wait - but it'll be worth it!
You'll be hard-pressed to find a more hearty, delicious meal in the area. Their prices are reasonable and their portions are decent too. Their brioche french toast is a must! Sunday Brunch is a little piece of home and as western as you can find in the area.
2. Frankies
A small cafe with 6-8 seats inside and always with a line out the door, Frankies is a firm favourite with coffee-lovers. You are always guaranteed a genuine greeting from the baristas and you're always guaranteed a good cuppa. Straight out of Melbourne, you'd be hard-pressed (ha!) to find a better "magic" in Tokyo. I bet you wouldn't be able to walk out without one of their sweet homemade treats either. Pssst, the hedgehog slices and lemon slices are EVERYTHING.
Literal Magic
Double Shot Iced Latte
3. Captain's Donut
I wish I never stopped here and I wish I never ate one of these donuts...I am obsessed and - unfortunately, my son is too. You don't need to feel too guilty because these fresh, beautiful, crispy doughy balls of goodness are soy-based and their ice-cream is too. Indulge away...
Our weekly treat. Fresh, warm crispy donut topped with soy-milk soft serve for ¥500.
Ren's first soft-serve... ever
Can you tell Ren likes it?
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