Alpha

Just a short walk from Ebisu Station, Alpha offers a calm traditional coffee-shop retreat from early morning through the evening. Doors open with morning sets at 8:00, plating thick toast alongside a boiled egg, salad, and your choice of hot or iced coffee or tea for an uncomplicated breakfast. Among the savoury meal choices, the standout is the Indian toast, pairing fragrant curry and melted cheese over thick-cut bread for a remarkably satisfying bite. The menu also covers familiar favourites such as pizza toast, bacon-and-egg sandwiches, and teriyaki chicken sandwiches.

For an afternoon break, the cake sets draw directly from the showcase in the dining room. Offerings shift with the seasons, ranging from strawberry shortcake finished with light whipped cream to rich Mont Blanc. These pair naturally with the house bitter blend or an aromatic iced coffee. The drinks list is equally extensive, spanning single-origin and speciality brews—such as charcoal-roasted beans, Mandheling, and Kilimanjaro—alongside spiced chai and fruit-forward mixed juices.

The quiet room balances table seating with counter stools, making it easy to pop in alone for tea or a light meal. Smoking is permitted throughout the entire premises, which regular smokers find convenient, though takeaway drink service is also provided. Note that settlement is cash only, so make sure you have bills and coins ready before you visit.