A Cozy Cafe in the Neighborhood
Published: February 4, 2025
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“izacafe Sen” is a cafe where people connect through food.
Inside, you’ll find counter seats and spacious horigotatsu-style seating — a traditional Japanese setup with a sunken floor under the table, allowing you to sit comfortably with your legs stretched out.
You can really feel the history of the place, as it originally operated as a teishoku restaurant (a Japanese eatery that serves set meals), and that gentle, familiar atmosphere is still present in the details. I love that you can come alone and sit at the counter facing the open kitchen, watching the dishes being prepared, or visit with friends and settle into the larger seating area. It is like a small gastronomic restaurant but still welcoming and easy to enjoy without any formality.
One of the most popular choices for lunch is the “Today’s Lunch Special,” which changes depending on the day’s ingredients.
Among the highlights are unique dishes such as stewed or sautéed Japanese serow. The tender meat has only a mild game aroma, while the rich tomato sauce adds just the right balance of acidity and depth. It pairs perfectly with both wine and sake.
For lunch, you can choose between a meat or fish set. I went with the fish, which was prepared in a gentle and well-balanced style that made it both satisfying and easy to enjoy. There are à la carte menus, as well as a course-style menu. Since the course requires advance preparation, it’s best to make a reservation if you plan to try it.
Fish Set Meal
The white fish was gently simmered, making it incredibly soft and moist. The mushrooms added depth, while the spinach brought a clean, balanced flavor. With rice, miso soup, tender daikon from the oden pot (oden is a Japanese hotpot-style dish with ingredients like daikon, and fish cakes simmered in a light soy-based broth), a small salad, and a smooth almond tofu dessert, it was a simple but deeply satisfying meal. Nothing showy, just really good ingredients prepared with care.
Free Wi-Fi is available as well.
In the afternoon, the space transforms into a cozy cafe, perfect for getting some work done. The quiet atmosphere, comfortable seating, and warm lighting make it easy to focus, while enjoying a carefully brewed cup of coffee or a freshly made dessert. I appreciated how relaxed it feels, making it a spot where you can settle in for a few hours without feeling rushed.
Dutch coffee
The coffee here is made with a blend sourced from Amsterdam. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with a soft sweetness that lingers just enough to make each sip satisfying. There is no harsh bitterness or sharp acidity, just a clean, steady taste that you can enjoy slowly while working or chatting. It is the kind of coffee crafted with care.
“izacafe Sen” also serves as a community space, hosting cooking classes and events where residents can connect.
The owner told me they wanted this place to feel like a warm and open hub for the neighborhood. And you can really feel that intention. Various groups already use it as their regular meeting spot, whether for workshops, casual gatherings, or shared meals. After spending time there myself, I completely understand the appeal. It is the kind of space where conversations happen naturally and where you instantly feel included.
Takeout is also available so that you can enjoy the taste of “izacafe Sen” at home.
Reservations can be made by phone, and the cafe is available for private parties of 10 or more people.
This place is more than just a place to eat. Whether you stop by for lunch, spend a quiet afternoon working with a coffee, or join one of the community events, it feels welcoming and genuine. The food is thoughtful, the atmosphere is warm, and the people who run it truly care about the space they are creating. It is the kind of place I can see myself returning to often, both to relax and to connect.
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Grégoire Renais
・Nationality：France
・Hobbies：Hiking, Photography (Landscapes, Japanese cultural events)
※Information is based on September 2025. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
