Side window to Shozo Coffee in Aoyama.

Just behind Omotesando Station in Aoyama, a small coffee shop in Commune 246 serves small batch drip coffee from Tochigi Prefecture. The first shop opened in 1988, serving out of an apartment in Tochigi Prefecture, just north of Tokyo. Since then, they’ve gone on to open three other cafes in Tochigi, with only this branch in Tokyo.

Baked goods include scones.

On a sunny, summer day, the shaded outdoor patio is a perfect spot to watch the weekend crowds saunter through. Inside, there are a handful of seats by the window with the fresh breeze blowing in from the two open windows and the open door.

The cafe only serves hand drip, and I highly recommend their ice coffee. It is not only packed with a rich, nutty flavour, but also has sweet cherry notes. Try it before adding syrup. In the summer months from late May through September, this is not only a refreshing drink, but a well-brewed cup that will impress coffee enthusiasts.

Try Shozo’s black ice-coffee without syrup first.

If you have the nibbles, then pick up their scones as well.

Unfortunately, this place isn’t suitable for working. If you need a place to plant yourself, try one of the other cafes in Commune 246. Blue Bottle Coffee is also right next door.

Shozo Coffee is part of Commune 246, which has a few cafes and restaurants.

Good For:

• Coffee: Hand drip, ice coffee
• Light Snacks & Baked Goods
• Space: Small benches / chairs by the window
• Friends: Catch up
• Work: Not suitable

If you liked this post, check out my list of East Tokyo Cafes.