Music is the guiding principle in this quiet, secluded cafe - in the Lion Cafe, you sit in secluded pew-like seats and drink in the atmosphere that only the very best of classical music can evoke. People don't come here to socialize - they come for the music - so talking is generally discouraged and the lighting is kept dim. The cafe was originally built in 1923 and then restored in 1950, almost to the letter of the original design, after it was destroyed in a World War II firebombing. Places like the Lion Cafe are precious, as are the peaceful moments they provide - for classical music lovers, it's a must-do.
In a move to bring more bustle to this quiet area, the entertainment-filled LaLaport Toyosu was constructed on the waterfront of Tokyo Bay. Several of the retail stores inside the giant complex are nothing new to Japan; finding these popular establishments in one convenient location, however, is definitely a treat. Among the 190 different shops, major retailers such as Tokyu Hands, The Gap, Uniqlo, and HMV are just some of the familiar names that eagerly await spendthrift visitors. As with any good entertainment complex, expect to find a diverse selection of appealing restaurants that serve up tasty international dishes from around the globe: Indian, Chinese, Japanese, American etc. Finding the right meal is a cinch! To round things off, there's even a movie theater, Ukiyo-e museum, grocery store, and the fantastic edutainment facility, Kidzania, for young kids (only available in Japanese). - Erin Sanchez
For delicious oysters, the Fish House Oyster Bar is your best bet. With oysters from Canada, America, and a plethora of local varieties, there are as many varieties as there are ways to chomp them down. Besides oysters, clam chowders, cheese platters and several other menu choices are also available. This one-room joint also offers a thoughtful variety of oyster-friendly wines and beers. Whether you believe in the power of the oyster or not, if you are a fan, aficionado, or just want to see what all the fuss is about, then the Fish House Oyster Bar is a great place to start.
One of the most loved cafes in the neighborhood, Réfectoire is known for its simply delicious sandwiches and small bites. Spacious and elegant, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the ambiance of this restaurant sets the tone for a laid-back snack. Featuring a host of delectable sandwiches, including the popular paté de champagne baguette and Smoked chicken sandwich, this restaurant has something for everyone. Apart from the sandwiches, the desserts and beverages are also worth a shot.
Located in the famous Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market, Daiwa Sushi is a pleasant treat for all the sushi lovers. Serving only fresh and quality Sushi at reasonable prices, Daiwa has no doubt become a favorite among locals. The restaurant is small and generally crowded, hence expect to stand in a queue. However this wait might surely prove worthwhile once you have had a bite of the marine delight served here.
A must for beer lovers, Bashamichi Taproom is one of several outlets for Baird Beer, a small brewery dedicated to making flavorsome beers using traditional malted barley, whole flower hops and soft Numazu water. The three-story Taproom has a long bar on the ground floor, a large room with bar and table seating on the second floor and a rooftop beer garden. The range of beers on tap include brown ale, pale ale, IPAs, a lager, a stout, and amber ale, as well as seasonal choices and a guest ale. The food menu offers authentic American style BBQ with beef, pork and chicken. There is also pizza, salad, macaroni cheese and Texas chili. A big-screen TV and regular music events help to create an inviting atmosphere. -AH