Nobody Talks About These Cafes in Japan: A Guide to Japan’s Unique Cafes and Ordering Etiquette!
For Indian tourists, exploring Japanese cafes can be both an exciting and challenging experience, particularly if you are overwhelmed by the language barrier and local Japanese customs. This guide will walk you through unique cafes in Japan, followed by essential Japanese cafe etiquette to ensure you enjoy your coffee without any reservations.
These Japanese cafes provide unique themes that blend food, pop culture, and immersive experiences, making them must-visits in Japan!
1. Vampire Café (Tokyo)
- A gothic-themed café with spooky decor, a candlelit ambiance, and red velvet curtains.
- Must Try: Creative cocktails and Japanese fare in a romantic setting.
2. Maid Café at-home cafe (Tokyo)
- A cosplay café in Akihabara featuring live performances and friendly maids.
- Must Try: Organic dishes and interactive entertainment.
3. Pompompurin Café (Tokyo)
- A playful café themed around the cartoon dog Pompompurin.
- Must Try: Pompompurin-shaped rice dishes and desserts.
4. Ninja Experience Café (Asakusa, Tokyo)
- A ninja-themed café with staff dressed as ninjas offering immersive dining experiences.
- Must Try: Ninja-inspired dishes and live entertainment.
5. Mr. Friendly Café (Shibuya, Tokyo)
- A colorful café featuring rainbow decor and people-shaped pancakes.
- Must Try: Pancakes for dipping and cheerful ambiance.
6. Pokémon Café (Tokyo)
- A themed café dedicated to Pokémon fans with character-inspired dishes.
- Must Try: Pikachu Curry Plate and exclusive Pokémon drinks.
7. Pepper Parlor (Shibuya, Tokyo)
- A novelty café staffed by robots offering an interactive experience.
- Must Try: Robot-served meals and themed desserts
Japanese Café Etiquette
- Entering the Café
When you enter, you may hear “いらっしゃいませ” (Irasshaimase), which means “welcome.” Simply nod or smile in acknowledgement; there’s no need to respond verbally. - Seating Arrangements
In most cafes, wait to be seated by the staff. If it’s a casual place, you can choose your seat, but waiting for guidance if available is always polite. - Calling the Staff
To get the staff’s attention, raise your hand at head level and say “すみません” (Sumimasen), which means “excuse me.” Some cafes may have a call button at your table. - Ordering Food
Use simple phrases like “これをお願いします” (Kore o onegaishimasu) while pointing at the menu item you want. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to choose items as they are rather than ask for modifications. - Enjoying Your Meal
In Japan, meals are meant to be savored. Don’t rush through your food; take your time and enjoy each bite. Slurping noodles is acceptable and a sign of complimenting the chef. Drinking Etiquette - Drinking Etiquette
Wait for everyone to be served before saying “乾杯” (Kanpai), which means “cheers,” before taking your first sip. It’s customary to pour drinks for others at the table rather than for yourself. - Using Oshibori
Upon being seated, you may receive a wet towel called “oshibori.” Use it to clean your hands before eating, not as a napkin or face wipe. - Paying the Bill
When you’re ready to pay, ask for the bill by saying “お会計お願いします” (Okaikei onegaishimasu). In some places, you may need to pay at the register rather than at your table. - Respecting Personal Space
Japanese culture values personal space, so avoid spreading out too much at your table and keep conversations at a moderate volume. - Cash is King
Many cafes and restaurants in Japan prefer cash payments, so it’s wise to carry yen with you. Confirm if they accept credit cards beforehand.
By following these etiquettes while visiting Japan’s unique cafes, Indian tourists can enjoy a more immersive and respectful dining experience. Embrace the quirks of each café while being mindful of local customs, and you’ll create unforgettable memories during your culinary adventures in Japan!
FAQ’s
1. What unique cafes can I visit in Japan?
Japan is home to several unique cafes, including the Vampire Café in Tokyo, known for its gothic ambiance, and the Maid Café at-home cafe, where you can enjoy organic dishes served by friendly maids. Other notable spots include the Pompompurin Café, Ninja Experience Café, Pokémon Café, Mr. Friendly Café, and Pepper Parlour, which features robot servers.
2. How do I order food at a Japanese cafe?
When ordering, use simple phrases like “これをお願いします” (Kore o onegaishimasu) while pointing at the menu item you want. It’s best to avoid asking for modifications to dishes
3. What should I know about Japanese cafe etiquette?
Upon entering a café, acknowledge the staff’s greeting with a nod or smile. Wait to be seated if possible, and to get the staff’s attention, raise your hand and say “すみません” (Sumimasen). Always wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and enjoy your food slowly.
4. Is it acceptable to use my phone in cafes?
It’s generally discouraged to make phone calls inside cafes as it disrupts the tranquil environment. If you need to use your phone, step outside.
5. How should I handle payment?
Most cafes prefer cash payments, especially smaller establishments. Be prepared to pay at the counter when you order.
6. What should I do with the oshibori (wet towel) provided?
Use the oshibori to clean your hands before eating; do not use it as a napkin or for wiping your face.
7. Are there any specific dining manners I should follow?
Yes, it’s polite to finish everything on your plate, as leaving food is seen as wasteful. Additionally, pour drinks for others at the table rather than yourself and wait for everyone to raise their glasses before drinking.
