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Bear Pond Espresso, located in Setagaya City, Tokyo, plays a vital role in the local community by serving as a gathering spot for coffee enthusiasts and fostering connections among residents. This café is not just about coffee; it embodies the spirit of Shimokitazawa, a neighborhood known for its artistic vibe and vibrant culture. The café's commitment to quality and community engagement makes it a beloved establishment among locals and visitors alike.

The café is known for its unique drinks, such as the 'Dirty' and 'T*O*P Latte', which have garnered a loyal following. Patrons appreciate the craftsmanship behind each cup, reflecting the owner's dedication to quality and the art of coffee-making.

Bear Pond Espresso also embraces local culture by participating in neighborhood events and supporting local artists, making it a hub for creativity and collaboration.

The café's ambiance, characterized by its cozy seating and minimalist decor, invites patrons to relax and enjoy their coffee while engaging in conversations with friends or fellow coffee lovers.

Overall, Bear Pond Espresso stands as a testament to the power of community and the joy of sharing a great cup of coffee.

to experience its unique offerings and community spirit.

Bear Pond Espresso collaborates with various local businesses and artists to enhance its community impact. Some notable partnerships include:

• Local roasters for sourcing high-quality beans
• Nearby bakeries for fresh pastries
• Local artists for showcasing their work in the café
• Community events to promote local culture

Bear Pond Espresso hosts various events throughout the year, including coffee tastings, art exhibitions, and community meetups. These gatherings foster a sense of belonging and encourage patrons to connect with one another over their shared love for coffee and creativity.

The café is committed to sustainable practices, including:
• Sourcing beans from ethical farms
• Minimizing waste through recycling and composting
• Supporting local businesses to reduce carbon footprint

"Bear Pond Espresso is a special place where coffee lovers can gather and share their passion. The atmosphere is cozy, and the coffee is top-notch!" - Angela C.

"I love the community events they host. It’s a great way to meet new people and enjoy fantastic coffee!" - Timothy Wong.

Join the vibrant community at Bear Pond Espresso by visiting the café or participating in one of their events. Experience the unique atmosphere and enjoy a cup of expertly crafted coffee while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Bear Pond Espresso welcomes you to be part of its coffee-loving community.

The Historical Journey of Bear Pond Espresso

Nestled in the vibrant Shimokitazawa district of Setagaya City, Tokyo, Bear Pond Espresso has carved out a niche for itself as a beloved **coffee haven** since its inception in 2009. This cozy café is not just another spot on the Tokyo coffee map; it's a testament to the passion and expertise of its founder, Katsu Tanaka, who honed his barista skills over nearly two decades in New York City before bringing his craft back home to Japan.

Located in the charming Kitazawa area of Setagaya City, Tokyo, Bear Pond Espresso is a cozy café known for its exceptional coffee quality and unique signature drinks. This establishment has garnered attention for its rich flavors and skilled baristas, making it a notable stop for coffee enthusiasts. However, it also faces mixed reviews regarding customer service and payment methods, which are important to consider before visiting.

Experienced barista with international training

Bear Pond Espresso is perfect for coffee aficionados seeking high-quality brews in a cozy setting. It's an ideal spot for quick coffee breaks or casual catch-ups with friends.

Before you go, be aware that Bear Pond Espresso only accepts cash payments, which may be inconvenient for some. The seating is limited, so visiting during off-peak hours is advisable to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

Bear Pond Espresso stands out for its exceptional coffee and cozy atmosphere, despite some drawbacks like cash-only payments and mixed customer service experiences. For those who prioritize quality coffee in a relaxed setting, this café is worth a visit.

Experience Tokyo's Coffee Gem Bear Pond Espresso in Setagaya City, Japan.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Kitazawa in Setagaya City, Tokyo, Bear Pond Espresso stands as a revered destination for coffee enthusiasts seeking an authentic and artisanal experience. This small yet iconic café has gained fame for pioneering unique espresso creations, attracting both locals and travelers eager to savor exceptional specialty coffee. Its intimate setting is perfect for those craving a quick, quality caffeine fix in a charming, hipster atmosphere.

Signature Coffees that Define Craftsmanship

Bear Pond Espresso is renowned for its lineup of expertly crafted espresso drinks, each showcasing the baristas' dedication to flavor balance and presentation. Among the must-tries is the legendary "Dirty," a signature beverage featuring two shots of rich espresso artfully layered over cool whole milk served in a Mason jar. This drink offers a complex taste journey best enjoyed without stirring, allowing the layers to unfold with every sip.

: A signature drink featuring two shots of espresso layered into cool whole milk in a Mason jar priced at 650 JPY.

: A small, strong espresso-based drink with equal parts espresso and steamed milk, offered at 500 JPY.

: A refreshing blend of espresso and cold milk served over ice, available for 650 JPY.

Bear Pond Espresso may surprise visitors with its cozy, intimate space that comfortably seats fewer than ten people. Its minimalist, hipster vibe appeals to coffee lovers who appreciate quality over quantity. While the café is known for its excellent espresso made using the famed Italian La Marzocco machine, patrons should be prepared for a somewhat austere service style, with staff interactions described as functional but lacking smiles or warmth. This unique ambiance lends the place an authentic Tokyo coffee shop charm.

It’s important to note that Bear Pond Espresso accepts cash only, reflecting a traditional approach in an increasingly cashless world. While this limits payment options, it also preserves a classic café experience that many visitors find endearing. The café does not serve food, alcoholic beverages, or offer reservations, focusing exclusively on delivering an exceptional coffee experience, particularly with its specialty espresso drinks.

 Bear Pond Espresso only accepts cash payments, so be prepared with yen to avoid any inconvenience.

 This signature drink is a unique and flavorful experience that defines Bear Pond’s coffee craft.

 The café is small and seating is limited, so arriving during quieter times ensures a cozy spot to relax.

Setagaya

Bear Pond Espresso is a renowned coffee shop in Tokyo's Shimokitazawa neighborhood, known for its high-quality espresso and unique drinks like the 'Dirty' and 'T*O*P Latte'. While many patrons praise the coffee's exceptional taste and the owner's dedication to the craft, some reviews mention concerns about customer service and the shop's strict policies, such as a no-photo rule and cash-only payments.

Discover Bear Pond Espresso in Shimokitazawa Tokyo's Coffee Gem 

Nestled in the vibrant district of Shimokitazawa, Bear Pond Espresso is a specialty coffee shop celebrated for its expertly crafted espresso and signature drinks like the "Dirty" and "Gibraltar." Coffee enthusiasts and local trendsetters alike flock here to savor flavors that balance tradition with innovation.

Bear Pond Espresso stands out for its high-quality coffee, made using the renowned La Marzocco espresso machine imported from Italy. Whether you choose their classic hot latte or the iconic Dirty coffee, expect a sophisticated balance of bold flavors and smooth textures. Latte art here is often praised as a 10 out of 10, adding an artistic touch to your cup.

This cozy café offers limited indoor seating, perfect for small groups or solo visitors looking for a quick coffee break. The space comfortably accommodates around 2-3 groups, creating an intimate atmosphere ideal for appreciating your coffee quietly or while indulging in some thrift shopping nearby.

 — Bear Pond Espresso does not accept credit or cashless payments, so be sure to bring cash.

 — While the café doesn’t serve food, customers are welcome to bring their own snacks to enjoy alongside their drink.

 — There is limited outdoor seating available, perfect for enjoying Tokyo’s street vibe while sipping your coffee.

 — Accessibility is limited, so visitors with mobility needs should plan accordingly.

What are the operating hours of Bear Pond Espresso?

 Bear Pond Espresso operates daily from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Does Bear Pond Espresso accept credit cards?

 No, Bear Pond Espresso is a cash-only establishment.

Is there seating available inside the café?

 Yes, the café has limited seating inside, accommodating approximately 2-3 groups.

Can I bring my own food to Bear Pond Espresso?

 The café does not serve food, but patrons are welcome to bring their own snacks.

Is Bear Pond Espresso wheelchair accessible?

Bear Pond Espresso enjoys a mixed but passionate community following. Coffee lovers widely praise the café's exceptional espresso quality and its role as the originator of the 'Dirty' coffee menu. However, some visitors mention the café's minimalist and somewhat cold customer service style, alongside higher beverage prices. Despite this, the unique coffee experience and cozy setting continue to attract a dedicated clientele seeking authentic Tokyo café culture.

Asia

Japan

Bear Pond Espresso to urokliwe miejsce w dzielnicy Setagaya w Japonii, które zachwyca nie tylko miłośników kawy, ale także tych, którzy cenią sobie wyjątkową atmosferę i wysoką jakość serwowanych napojów. To kawiarnia, która łączy nowoczesny design z tradycyjnym japońskim podejściem do sztuki parzenia kawy, tworząc przestrzeń, w której każdy łyk to prawdziwa uczta dla zmysłów.

Kawiarnia słynie z wyjątkowych kaw, które są starannie przygotowywane przez doświadczonych baristów. Jednym z najbardziej rozpoznawalnych napojów jest ich specjalne espresso, które zachwyca głębią smaku i aromatu, przenosząc każdego gościa w świat intensywnych doznań. Innym hitem jest ręcznie robiona kawa pour-over, która pozwala na pełne wydobycie aromatów i subtelnych nut smakowych.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLTZuOXBRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLTZuOXBRRRAB

This coffee shop is on my list of places to visit. After reading the reviews, I was surprised by its low rating for a coffee shop in Tokyo. Most reviews focused on the customer service rather than the actual taste of the coffee, so I decided to try it for myself.

• Coffee
I ordered a hot T*O*P latte. The taste was okay, scoring a 7/10 for me. It wasn’t great, but it wasn’t bad either. I might try their dirty latte next time.

• Price
I bought two hot T*O*P lattes, which are kind of their specialty. It cost ¥1300 for both, which I think is fair for specialty coffee.

• Customer Service
There were many complaints about the customer service, but my experience was just okay—not terrible. The clerk didn’t smile at all, which might suggest he was tired. While I didn’t mind, some people might see that as unfriendly. I ordered in Japanese, but he responded in English, which confused me a bit. Maybe it was because I don’t look very Japanese.

• Payment
The coffee shop didn't accept cashless payments. I couldn’t use my card, so I had to pay in cash. It’s 2024—why is that still a thing?

Overall, my feelings about the coffee shop are neutral. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn’t great either. I didn’t feel a warm atmosphere, but the coffee was decent.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bzYzNGdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bzYzNGdBRRAB

There’s something special about this coffee shop.

Bear Pond was on the top of the list for one of my coffee loving friends who visited Tokyo earlier this year, so after hearing him rave about it, I decided to go in and grab myself a coffee when I stumbled across the shop amidst a day of thrift shopping.

I lucked out as there was no line, found a cozy spot to sit and had no problem with the service. Coffee was delicious and well balanced. Latte art was also 10/10. Given the positive experience, maybe… just maybe, I’ll muster up the courage next time to ask for an Angel Stain 👼☕️

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaU9lOFZBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaU9lOFZBEAE

Good coffee and the origin of dirty coffee menu.   The original is of course the original but I find Thai baristas take this menu and elevated it to a new high. No fault but also not wow. Cozy seating area for no more than 10 persons. Good for grab and go kind of place. Cash only.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYbXJic2RnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYbXJic2RnEAE

Very high quality coffee, impressed. Even if the espresso was a bit burned the sweetness and the texture were so good it was still drinkable and pleasing. They use the famous "la Marzocco" machine from Italy. The atmosphere is a bit hipster, thr place is tiny, great for a quick drink. Unfortunately the price of drink is expensive (espresso 500 jpy) so it is not a place you can use everyday.
2 cons:
1. price
2. Staff attitude. No smile, no welcome, no greeting when leave. Very cold.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeHM3cFVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeHM3cFVREAE

Came to the origin of Dirty. There were many espresso based drinks on the menu, but I already decided on what to order even before I came here. It's a small space in an old town, so the cafe maintains the classic vibes. Dirty came out exactly how I expected: strong and flavourful. For first timers, please don't stir your drink. You have to enjoy it through the layers.

Kawiarnia Bear Pond Espresso w Setagaya, Tokio – Idealne miejsce na kawę i relaks

Established in 2009 by Katsu Tanaka, a New York-trained barista, Bear Pond Espresso has become a staple in Tokyo's coffee scene, offering meticulously crafted espresso drinks in a cozy setting.

Historia Bear Pond Espresso - ikony kawy w Tokio.

Bear Pond Espresso to kawiarnia, która od momentu swojego powstania w 2009 roku stała się nieodłącznym elementem sceny kawowej w Tokio. Założona przez Katsu Tanaka, baristę wykształconego w Nowym Jorku, miejsce to od początku wyróżniało się wyjątkową dbałością o jakość i precyzję w przygotowaniu każdego napoju.

Początkowo zlokalizowana w dzielnicy Shimokitazawa, kawiarnia szybko zdobyła uznanie miłośników kawy dzięki swojemu unikalnemu podejściu i wysokiej jakości napojom.

Od swojego powstania, Bear Pond Espresso systematycznie budowała swoją reputację jako miejsce, gdzie kawa jest sztuką. Katsu Tanaka, zainspirowany nowojorskimi trendami, wprowadził do Tokio nowoczesne metody parzenia i starannie wyselekcjonowane ziarna, które przyciągnęły szerokie grono kawoszy.

2009 - otwarcie Bear Pond Espresso w dzielnicy Shimokitazawa.

 Właśnie wtedy Katsu Tanaka rozpoczął swoją przygodę z kawą w Tokio, tworząc miejsce, które szybko zyskało uznanie.

Dine In

Takeout

Outdoor Seating

A gem hidden in the vibrant tapestry of Setagaya City, Bear Pond Espresso beckons with the warm embrace of aromatic brews and a laid-back atmosphere that feels uniquely Tokyo. This charming café, tucked away on a quaint street in the Kitazawa district, is where coffee lovers embark on a sensory journey, savoring meticulously crafted espresso that has garnered a loyal following. The moment you step inside, the eclectic decor—a blend of rustic wood, minimalist furnishings, and quirky art—invites you to linger, making it the perfect retreat from the bustling city outside. Bear Pond Espresso’s signature drinks, like the beloved ‘Bear Pond’ espresso, are steeped in a dedication to quality, featuring beans sourced from premium origins and roasted to perfection. Here, each cup is more than just a drink; it’s an experience, one that celebrates the artistry of coffee-making. Patrons often find themselves huddled over their steaming cups, engaged in quiet conversations or simply lost in thought, as the ambiance wraps around them like a comforting blanket. Beyond the espresso, the café fosters a sense of community amongst its visitors. Artisanal pastries and light bites, crafted with as much passion as the coffee, complement the menu and invite a lazy afternoon of indulgence. Nearby, the enchanting streets of Kitazawa, lined with trendy boutiques and art galleries, provide the ideal backdrop for a post-café stroll, allowing you to fully soak in the essence of this creative Tokyo district. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply seeking an idyllic spot to relax, Bear Pond Espresso offers a slice of tranquility where the love for coffee converges with the heartbeat of urban life.

Bear Pond Espresso

Payment Options

A selection of specialty coffee drinks crafted with precision and passion.

Dirty

T*O*P Latte

Gibraltar

Bear Pond Espresso Menu

Nestled in the heart of Setagaya City, Tokyo, Bear Pond Espresso is a must-visit for specialty coffee lovers and espresso aficionados. This intimate cafe serves a carefully curated selection of espresso-based drinks, each crafted with precision and passion to deliver a rich and satisfying experience. Whether you're seeking a quick caffeine fix or a refined coffee moment, Bear Pond Espresso's offerings promise bold flavors and impeccable quality.

The cornerstone of Bear Pond Espresso's menu is its exceptional espresso-based drinks. Here are the signature mains that showcase the cafe’s expertise in coffee craftsmanship:

 - A bold blend of robust espresso layered over cold milk, creating a striking contrast of flavors that coffee lovers rave about. This drink is the origin of the renowned "Dirty" coffee menu and is best enjoyed without stirring to appreciate its distinct layers.

 - A perfectly balanced fusion of sharp espresso and smooth steamed milk, offering a creamy yet intense coffee experience praised by regulars.

 - Refreshingly crafted with espresso and chilled milk, this cold brew alternative is perfect for warm Tokyo days, balancing boldness and smoothness in every sip.

Bear Pond Espresso is famed as the birthplace of the "Dirty" drink style, a clever layering of espresso and milk that delivers a complex flavor experience. The cafe maintains a classic, hipster vibe within its small, cozy space, ideal for those who appreciate a quiet moment with high-quality coffee. While the menu focuses on espresso drinks with no desserts or alcoholic beverages, each cup is a celebration of coffee culture and artisanal preparation.

Dedicated exclusively to coffee, Bear Pond Espresso does not offer traditional drinks like teas or cocktails. Instead, the focus is on expertly brewed espresso-based beverages that highlight the rich flavors of quality beans and masterful barista skills. Expect balanced, smooth lattes and espressos served with artistry, including impressive latte art that complements the taste.

Odkryj Bear Pond Espresso w Setagaya, japońską kawiarnię z doskonałą kawą i przytulną atmosferą. Idealne miejsce na relaks i smakowe doznania. Odwiedź już dziś!

Kawiarnia Bear Pond Espresso w Setagaja, Tokio – wyjątkowe kawy

Setagaya City Municipality

A signature drink featuring two layers of espresso and milk, served in a mason jar.

Dirty Coffee

A balanced latte made with high-quality espresso and steamed milk.

A small latte served in a Gibraltar glass, offering a strong coffee flavor.

recenzja kawiarni Bear Pond Espresso w Setagaya, Japan 

Bear Pond Espresso to wyjątkowa kawiarnia położona w dzielnicy Setagaya, znana z niepowtarzalnego charakteru i wysokiej jakości kawy. Miejsce to przyciąga miłośników kawy, którzy cenią sobie starannie przygotowane napoje i przytulną atmosferę. To idealne miejsce na chwilę relaksu przy filiżance espresso, zwłaszcza dla tych, którzy poszukują autentycznego doświadczenia kawowego w Japonii.

Wyjątkowa jakość kawy i unikalne napoje signature.

Przytulna i kameralna atmosfera, idealna na relaks.

Doświadczony barista z międzynarodowym treningiem, gwarantujący wysoką jakość napojów.

Akceptują tylko płatności gotówką, co może być niewygodne dla niektórych gości.

Ograniczona liczba miejsc siedzących, co może wymusić oczekiwanie w godzinach szczytu.

Polityka zakazu fotografowania może być dla niektórych niekomfortowa.

Różne opinie na temat jakości obsługi klienta mogą wskazywać na niejednorodne doświadczenia.

Tokyo

ベアーポンドエスプレッソ

The shop itself is dope! Decor is neat but I don't find myself loving the drinks. They tend to be on the bitter side which just isn't my preference.

First heard about Bear Pond from my wife who sent over an article about how unique this coffee shop was and how they only offered a limited number of espresso shots only during hours before noon. I was so intrigued, that I made it a point to check it out. Located in what the locals consider the "old" Tokyo, this small coffee shop does have some pretty tasty coffee. Though I'm not a huge espresso drinker, this was definitely the thickest and richest shot of espresso I've had. The Angel Stain definitely delivered a strong caffeine punch as I had the jitters for at least 2 hours afterwards. Ordering their TOP latte did cross my mind and I'm glad I didn't as my caffeine jitters would've been off he charts. Though the owners/workers weren't super friendly, you can definitely tell they take pride in what they serve. Would definitely recommend trying their coffee at least once during a trip and if in the area, would definitely head back.

You know the 'Soup Nazi' episode of Seinfeld? That's kinda how I felt entering Bear Pond after reading a bunch of reviews online (both here and elsewhere). I was...nervous. Didn't wanna pull an Elaine and be too casual, or George it up by asking for bread with my order. But hey you know, my experience wasn't bad at all. I kinda enjoyed the place actually. Sure the workers weren't the most chatty or super smiley with us, whatevs. Coffee was coffee, and it was strong, and you could tell they care about their craft. I ordered the iced coffee with some sort of chocolate syrup down the sides of the glass that brought back all the Nesquik memories of my childhood. I was digging it. On top of that, the decor is super hip. Maybe eight or so seats inside and a small bench outside. Definitely not the place to post up with a computer--by design, I'm guessing. Heard they're not big fans of people taking lots of pics of their coffee, space, etc., so I didn't even bother trying. Just enjoyed my beverage, chatted for a little bit with the wifey, and went on our way. Very business-like.

Without a doubt in my mind, the best cappuccino I ever had in my life was from Bear Pond. My friend ordered for us and I didn't think much of it when he handed off my cup as I was obviously too busy photographing it. But after that first sip, and then that second sip to be sure, the look on my face must have been something. My jaw dropped and I looked down at my cup again and just mouthed the words, "oh my God". Velvety smooth, perfectly roasted, gah. In too short of sips later, my cup was empty. The woman behind the counter wasn't the friendliest (yelled at me for taking a photo; never saw the sign; oh well!) but on our third visit (yes, we came three times), the owner himself was there and we had a long chat with him and learned more about his shop, his time in the US and the evolution of coffee culture in Japan. It's a little out of the way to get to - it took us a bit to figure out the train but it's totally worth it. Catch some wi-fi to post your instas at the Watsons across the street.

The espresso was just excellent and very smooth Would I call it the best espresso in the world ? No Many bars in Italy can claim that. But it is definitely excellent coffee .

Not the most heartwarming experience, but their coffee is excellent. From what I've heard (several of my friends have been here as well), the owner is very particular about the espresso. The power/electricity is supposedly different at certain times of the day, which affects the machine, so that is why the espresso is not served after a certain time. There are signs warning about this, though they may be in Japanese. The customer service is intimidating (the cashier stared down my friend who had a big DSLR, but that is kind of their thing). They have a sign at the register saying something to the effect that no photos are allowed. As for my drink, my mocha tasted more like chocolate milk but I happened to like it. It's a bit of a trek to get here from the more touristy parts of Tokyo, but worth checking out if you're a coffee lover.

I love this place! Located on the backstreets away from the north side of Shimokitazawa station (use the north central exit), finding the place is half of the fun as you have countless distractions along the way. The walk is well worth it though if you crave a thick, rich, robust hand-drawn espresso or mixed espresso drink. Before proceeding further, a few primer points: - Service: Other reviews have mentioned snarky attitudes of the shop's staff. OK, fair enough; however, they're there to take your order and prepare it properly. The shop is just too small and often crowded - no time for chit chats, no problem. It's not Starbucks! - No photos! OK, if you ask nicely, you can shoot your coffee drink, that's all. No interior panoramas, no revealing selfies, no artsy mood shots just because the interior decor is so sparse and so damn cool. No means no - please don't piss off the baristas! - Food: None on premises to buy. The ONLY food allowed in to enjoy with your excellent coffee is that from across the street - N.Y. Cupcakes and the Mixture Bakery nearby (see photo). On to coffee: They offer a special straight shot on certain days - when supply is available, right after opening and...if you're lucky...damn lucky. For me, one out of five visits so far. I've been craving it since my first taste! Closest is a macchiato, strong, stout and aromatic. Double is ¥500; single ¥350. I recommend getting two singles because after it cools to lukewarm, the taste changes. Drink one, bask in the caffeine high, write a Yelp review (hint, hint), then order your second - one hour gone in the blink of an eye! They also have beans to go. I've yet to try those for home consumption but I will, along with specific recommendations about storage and grinding. Yup, they're expensive too. The current featured variety (also used in the drinks served) is a high altitude Ethiopian bean..didn't spend much time getting the details as I was too busy getting buzzed off the coffee. OK, what else? Try it! Don't expect the whip cream, nuts, sauces and sprinkles you get at other "specialty coffee drink" places. This is a more purist experience - no frills all the way around. P.S. If you're lucky, you can get a seat. Two benches, two plank-bolted-to-the-wall "tables" with minimalist chairs. Each of the four seating places can seat two; that's eight total for the shop. Oh, one bench out front for three skinny people, or two average folks.

World-class espresso, world-class "attitude." People definitely don't visit BEAR POND for the service or the smile, and anyone who's ever read an article or a Yelp review will know that there's a method to every little bit of their madness... except for the scary lady working the counter. I was fortunate enough to get to Shimokitazawa in time to watch Katsu strike up a conversation with his neighboring store owners while swarms of confused tourists walked past the storefront two or three times because there is absolutely no indication that BPE is a cafe when their steel pull-down doors cover up the windows. I came here three times over the course of two years to try their world-famous Angel Stain and after finally having gotten to try it, I'm kind of glad I tip-toed around the storefront all that time to get to it; to quote Katsu, "Bear Pond is about smooth chocolate," and you'll taste things in Katsu's espresso and espresso-based drinks you'd never expect to taste from coffee. If you do end up missing out on the Angel Stain by a hair like the first two times I was here, do try the Gibraltar and the Dirty, and try to pick up a bag of Flower Child if they have it available. And for the love of god, do NOT take pictures without asking their permission first -- they're actually very lax about photos despite their infamous policy, just as so it's with their blessing and it's not before you've had the chance to finish your Angel Stain (Katsu will tell you that you need to drink it within five seconds of him pulling the shot before it starts to turn sour.) Above all else, sit back, relax and try to enjoy one of the finest coffee craftsmen doing what he does best -- the keyword here being "try" :)

You may have heard of this place on a blog or in a magazine, it is a bit of a journey to get here from central Tokyo but it is well worth it. This is one of the best if not the best espresso bars in Tokyo proper. Come here, be good, enjoy your coffee and leave and tell everyone about how you experienced one of the tastiest and most obscure coffee houses in the world. There are some unspoken rules and customs in Bear Pond (like the soup nazi in that Seinfeld episode,lol). Picture taking in and around the establishment isn't really smiled upon. I'd hardly call it a cafe because of how tiny, quiet and the fact there is limited seating. I unknowingly sat in reserve seating in the front window, even though I saw the sign I had thought it was part of props or decorations of the cafe, as I have never encountered reserve seating in a cafe with so few seats. Nevertheless it is charming and a place not to be missed. I ordered a cappuccino which of course was made by none other than,the great Katsu Tanaka. The taste was out of this world, the cappuccino with well pulled shots has a rich and bold taste, as any espresso would, but is toned down by the steamed milk. However as stated by Adam Goldberg in his blog about Bear Pond, I too found the way lattes and cappuccinos reversed. Bear Pond also has some cool mugs and other items only for sale at the shop and nowhere else, I regret not getting a mug to prove I've been there and adding it to my pantheon of around the world coffee experiences.

No. No and just no. A double espresso came out as a spoonful's-worth of mud and all of that without a lick of hospitality. The best part is the worn-down piece of wood outside that you sit on.

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