Among the many Japanese coffee chains, Sarutahiko stands out as one that maintains a certain prestige and quality while being accessible enough to be an everyday kind of place, woven into the rhythm of city in department stores and transit hubs. What began as a little shop in Ebisu in 2011 has grown to be a widely recognized coffee brand in and beyond Tokyo. The quality and precision of artisanal roasters with the efficiency and consistency of an established chain.

The beans are meticulously sourced and roasted, achieving several accolades. The cafe menu keeps things simple. Espresso and milk, offered in hot and iced form. And a selection of pourovers, also offered in hot and iced form. They also serve pastries and ice cream (affogato for a particularly good summer treat). The cafes, like the branding, fuse Japanese tradition with contemporary culture, giving way to clean yet sophisticated aesthetics and a welcoming, unrushed atmosphere.