This is CityNomix.
Kuramae, located on the east side of Tokyo along the Sumida River, is often dubbed “Tokyo’s Brooklyn.” Once a district known for toy wholesalers and craftsmen, it has transformed into a cultural hub where renovated warehouses host stylish cafes and lifestyle shops. For a digital marketer like myself, walking through this neighborhood is the perfect analog antidote to a week spent in front of screens. It’s about wandering aimlessly down backstreets, letting the aroma of roasted beans guide me to new discoveries.
Today, I want to share a fresh addition to this vibrant scene: WESTSIDE COFFEE Kuramae, which opened its doors in December 2024. As the second branch of a highly acclaimed roastery in Asakusa, this spot is more than just a coffee stand—it’s a new rhythm in the heart of the city.
With its exceptional light roast coffee, sophisticated “adult” tiramisu, and high-quality decaf options that I can confidently recommend even to expectant mothers, this cafe is a must-visit. Here is my honest, on-the-ground report of the experience.
A Stylish Addition to the Neighborhood
A few minutes’ walk from Kuramae Station on the Toei Asakusa Line brings you to a quiet street where a distinctive brick building stands out.
The first thing that catches your eye is the textured facade of brown and grey bricks. Mounted on the corner is a rough-hewn stone sign engraved with the “WESTSIDE COFFEE” logo. This design strikes a balance between ruggedness and sophistication, paying homage to Kuramae’s history as a town of artisans while blowing a fresh wind into the streetscape.
The entrance is fully glazed, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. A metal bench sits outside, bathing in the soft afternoon sunlight. On a pleasant day, sipping a drip coffee here while feeling the breeze would be pure luxury. The design is transparent and welcoming, signaling that this space belongs to the community.
Minimalist Aesthetics: Where Concrete Meets Warmth
Pushing open the heavy door, you step into a serene space free from the noise of the city.
The interior features an industrial design with exposed concrete walls and floors. However, it doesn’t feel cold, thanks to the warm wooden benches placed throughout. This minimalist approach, stripping away unnecessary decorations, resonates deeply with Photomo’s theme: “Conveying experiences, not just records; sensations, not just daily life.”
In the kitchen area, a beautifully mortar-finished counter commands attention. A gleaming espresso machine and silent grinders sit ready for action. Watching the barista carefully brew coffee against the backdrop of the Kuramae street view through the large window makes the waiting time part of the experience itself.
Single-Origin Selection: A Curated Experience
I approached the counter to order. The true essence of WESTSIDE COFFEE lies in their homemade roasted specialty coffee.
Next to the register, cards describing the day’s bean lineup were neatly displayed: Mexico, Kenya, China, Colombia, Costa Rica. Each bean from these global farms asserts its unique personality.
What impressed me was the level of detail. The cards list not only the region and process but also specific flavor notes like “Blueberry,” “Lime,” or “Floral.” This thoughtful presentation helps even those not well-versed in coffee terminology to imagine the taste and make a choice. It’s a sign of their sincerity towards the customer.
The drink menu is simple and clear, categorized into “FILTER” (Hand Drip), “ESPRESSO” (Latte, Americano, etc.), and “OTHERS” like Espresso Tonic.
Tasting Report: The Essence of Light Roast Colombia
For my drink, I selected the Hand Drip Colombia (Campo Hermoso). It’s a light roast, a style trending in Tokyo’s specialty coffee scene, known for highlighting fruity characteristics.
From the first sip, I was astonished by its cleanliness. The liquid was transparent, sliding down my throat without any unpleasant bitterness. Instead, my mouth was filled with a refreshing acidity and sweetness reminiscent of fruit tea. It was light, aromatic, and incredibly easy to drink—perfect for a mid-work refresh.
If you hold the stereotype that “coffee is bitter,” this cup will change your mind. It’s a prime example of what a top-tier Kuramae coffee experience should be.
A Pleasant Surprise: High-Quality Decaf Latte
My companion ordered a Decaf Latte, which uses decaffeinated beans from Mexico.
Honestly, decaf often carries a stigma of being watery or lacking in flavor. However, WESTSIDE COFFEE betrays those expectations in the best way possible. I tasted a sip, and it had a robust coffee body and richness that wasn’t overpowered by the milk’s sweetness. If I hadn’t been told, I wouldn’t have known it was decaf.
This is a great find for pregnant women, those limiting caffeine intake, or anyone wanting a late-night coffee without the jitters. The fact that you can switch to decaf at no extra charge is also a very generous touch.
The Perfect Pairing: “Adult” Tiramisu
Great coffee deserves great sweets. I couldn’t resist the Tiramisu shining in the display case.
Served on a white plate, the square slice was generously dusted with cocoa powder. The cross-section revealed beautiful layers of mascarpone cream and coffee-soaked sponge.
Taking a bite, I was greeted by a distinct aroma of Western liquor. It has a sophisticated, “adult” flavor profile with a noticeable alcohol kick. The rich mascarpone, the bitterness of the cocoa, and the fragrant liquor intertwine complexly.
Crucially, this pairs magnificently with the light roast Colombia. The coffee’s refreshing acidity cuts through the richness of the tiramisu, inviting the next bite. Even though I don’t usually have a sweet tooth, I finished it in no time. This pairing was undoubtedly the highlight of my visit.
Kuramae Coffee Guide: Essential Info & Tips
To help you plan your visit, I’ve compiled some practical information based on what travelers and locals often ask.
Kuramae Coffee Roasters: What makes this spot unique?
While there are several roasters in the area, WESTSIDE COFFEE stands out for its specific focus on clean, light roasts. Unlike traditional Japanese kissaten that might favor a Dark Roast, this shop celebrates the fruity acidity of the bean. It’s a modern interpretation of coffee culture that fits perfectly with the creative vibe of Kuramae.
Kuramae Coffee Map: Where does it fit?
If you are building a “Kuramae Coffee Map,” WESTSIDE COFFEE is a crucial stop. It’s located centrally, making it an easy addition to a route that might include other famous spots like Leaves Coffee or Sol’s Coffee. Its relaxed, stand-style atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick recharge between exploring stationery shops and leather workshops.
Best Coffee in Kuramae for Travelers?
For international visitors, this cafe is extremely user-friendly. The menu is in English (as seen in the photos), and the staff are generally accustomed to foreign guests given the area’s popularity. If you are looking for a souvenir, they sell their roasted Coffee Beans in stylish packaging, which makes for a perfect gift from Tokyo.
Is it suitable for work?
While there are benches and small tables, it’s primarily a Coffee Stand style setup. It’s not designed for opening a laptop and working for hours. Instead, view it as a place to disconnect, clear your head, and enjoy a sensory experience before heading back to the grind.
Final Thoughts
The new WESTSIDE COFFEE Kuramae brings more than just caffeine to the neighborhood. It offers a fresh sensory experience through its meticulously roasted light beans, a sophisticated space to pause, and sweet pairings that elevate the coffee break to an art form.
Whether you are a coffee geek searching for the perfect pour-over, a traveler exploring the “Brooklyn of Tokyo,” or someone looking for a delicious decaf option, this spot delivers. Add it to your itinerary.
This is CityNomix, signing off. See you at the next street corner.
Official site: https://www.instagram.com/ws_coffee_kuramae
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