Shakara

A short walk from Ichinoe Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line leads into a quiet residential pocket where Shakara pairs freshly prepared homestyle dishes with the steady aroma of brewing coffee. At midday, patrons often head here for the well-rounded lunch sets, complete with salad, soup, and a post-meal coffee. A regular favourite is the stewed hamburg steak, simmered gently until tender and light in texture for a comforting, satisfying plate. The kissaten classic spaghetti Napolitan is another staple, tossed in a rich ketchup sauce with generous pieces of bacon, onion, and green bell pepper that lend it plenty of substance. Accompaniments like the house-made potato salad and a warm, thoroughly simmered soup round out the lunch nicely.

When it comes to after-meal coffee, Shakara lets guests tailor their cup across four roast profiles: dark, medium, mild, and soft. Brewed with a generous measure of beans, the coffee delivers a robust depth of flavour and a pleasant bitterness that harmonises effortlessly with sweets. On the cake set menu, the rotating daily lemon tart is particularly appealing, layering a crisp, crumbly pastry shell with smooth, zesty lemon cream that contrasts neatly with the deeper coffee roasts.

Inside, a gentle soundtrack drifts past a layout of counter stools and dining tables, providing a calm backdrop for a leisurely break. Note that payment is cash only, so it is best to bring yen along before taking a seat.