CAFE9

Stepping away from Shibuya Station and following Dogenzaka uphill into Maruyamacho brings a calmer streetscape than the bustling station plaza. Located on the 1nd floor of a building that also houses cinemas and a small theater, CAFE9 is a handy spot to drop in on a whim and take a breather.

For a substantial lunch, Thai basil chicken rice stands out with its pleasant balance of spices and savory seasoning. Rice dishes also include butter chicken curry, a colorful vegetable keema curry, and a plant-based vegan lentil and celery curry, making it easy to tailor your choice to your mood and palate. Pasta classics such as old-fashioned Napolitan and spicy cod roe spaghetti are on hand alongside lighter bites like BLT sandwiches, working well for an unhurried solo meal.

The beverage lineup is broad: carefully brewed hot coffee and various lattes share space with traditional kissaten-style treats such as melon soda floats and vibrant cream sodas available in shades of red, blue, and more. Pairing an afternoon drink with a classic baked custard pudding or fromage cheesecake offers another relaxed way to spend your time.

Along with breezy terrace seating, the cafe provides Wi-Fi, making it convenient while waiting between film screenings or doing a bit of light work. With draft beer, sours, and small plates like smoked radish pickle (iburigakko) with cream cheese and crackers, dropping by for a casual drink around dusk is just as satisfying.