23 Higashinakano

Located on the third floor of a building along Yamate-dori Avenue near the West Exit of Higashi-Nakano Station, 23 Higashinakano is pronounced “Fumi Higashinakano.” Run by a former junior soccer team coach who decided to take on a new challenge, it is a cafe specializing in breakfast and brunch. Thanks to its convenient location near the station, it attracts many families stopping by before or after an outing, as well as businesspeople working nearby.

The cafe is proud of its thick-cut toast, crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The owner has even fine-tuned how thoroughly the butter soaks into the toast. The signature item is the Azuki Bean Paste, Butter, and Whipped Cream Toast, made with azuki bean paste that offers an exquisite balance of richness and sweetness. The Tartar Egg Toast, topped with an egg yolk, is also popular. The coffee beans are carefully selected to complement the toast, and each cup is brewed to order using the pour-over method. In winter, soup dishes such as pot-au-feu are also available.

Located on the third floor of a building with a narrow frontage, the cafe is often described as a hidden gem. Inside, counter and sofa seating create a comfortable space where guests can relax as though they were at home. Welcoming both solo diners and families with children, it is a lively local favorite.