Today I’m bringing you to one of my favorite place. My senpai brought me there in 2016 and it was a delightful first time in this place; I couldn’t expect less from this smart and sophisticated man who’s also a kissaten lover.

Kohitei (皇琲亭)
Since 1984 (showa 59)
Smoking and non-smoking area
WI-FI but no power outlets 
Lively (but not really noisy)
Recommendation: straight coffee (Guatemala one), cheesecake
Japanese Menu
Perfect for couples, alone or with friends (but you should to talk quietly) 
We love: large choice of coffee, the allergy chart on the menu
Special points: the beautiful collection of delicate china cups behind the counter, skilled barista
Drink prices: 760-1300 yen

So close from Ikebukuro station but still so peaceful and relaxing, this old traditionnal coffee shop had everything to get my heart : atmosphere of understated elegance, subdued lighting, dark woodcraft and big bouquets of flowers. A delicious fresh coffee smell is spreading around when you get in, making you feel like staying (nesting in my case…) here for hours, lulled by the classical music gently playing in the background.

According to me, this café is the best spot for people starting to get interested in kissaten and looking for a high quality coffee. I really have to underline that, but their coffee is truly amazing; barista here are skilled and will prepare your drink carefully.
It happens to me sometimes to go to a kissaten mostly for the atmosphere but to have to drink an average coffee. Kohitei is falling in another category… Here you’ll have everything: atmosphere, amazing coffee and delicious cakes.

The last came I came here, I tried one of the specialty, the アンブル・ドゥ・レーヌ (Ambre de Reine – Queen’s Amber?), made with a special selection of coffee beans.

I was surprised by the taste, strong but balanced, a little bit sweet and sour. I really do love how they served it, in a cocktail glass, making it super fancy for almost the same price than a blend coffee or a straight coffee (760 yen).

No lunch menu or spaghetti served here, which makes the place quiet during lunchtime. It’s the perfect spot for a winning combination dessert-coffee. Personally, I really do love their cheesecake (510 yen), rich and melting in mouth; one of the best ones among all the Tokyo’s kissaten.

If you want to give a try to the kissaten experience but you don’t know where to go, or if you are a coffee enthusiast always looking for quality beans, Kohitei is a safe bet!

Kohitei (炭火煎珈琲 皇琲亭)
Address: 1 chome, 7-2 higashi koma building, toshima-ku, Tokyo
東京都豊島区東池袋1-7-2 東駒ビル
Phone: 03-3985-6395
11:00〜22:30
Ikebukuro station west exit
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