Gion

Whether you fancy a hearty plate of Napolitan spaghetti or something lighter, such as a sandwich, Gion in Asagaya offers the kind of café fare to suit the moment. Diners who order the Napolitan have praised its satisfying portion and the way the tang of ketchup is balanced by the savoury depth and spice of sauce. The menu also features “charred Napolitan”, served with salad and a mayonnaise-dressed egg. The regular portion uses 140g of noodles, with a larger 240g portion available. The menu describes the noodles as cooked al dente and the sauce as slowly simmered. It is an option to consider when you want a substantial lunch.

For a lighter meal, try a sandwich. The mixed sandwich lets you choose two fillings from egg, ham, vegetables and tuna, making it easy to tailor to your mood. In the morning, choose between a toast set and a sandwich set. The buttered-toast set comes with a small salad and a boiled egg; the sandwich set includes a mini sandwich, a small serving of vegetables and a boiled egg. There are also toast options served with salad, a mayonnaise-dressed egg and seasonal fruit, extending the choices from breakfast to a light meal before lunch.

For something sweet, order a waffle served with butter, strawberry jam, sweet azuki bean paste and whipped cream. The menu says it is made with the café’s own flour blend, with ingredients such as fresh orange peel used as a subtle flavouring. The coffee jelly contains evaporated milk, and ice cream can be added on request. Pair either dessert with coffee, or enjoy it as a small treat during a break.

Some diners have mentioned sitting in one of the swing seats. The café is in Asagaya-kita and opens from 9 in the morning; on Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 0:30 the following day. That gives you the choice of stopping in for breakfast or later in the evening.