Tomorrow (友路有) just steps from Akabane Station in a cozy second-floor space. It radiates Showa-era charm with worn leather sofas and warm lighting, but feel free to plug in your laptop, order a blend coffee and nostalgic Napolitan, and stay for hours—locals, suitcases and all.
The story of Tomorrow: a classic café rooted in nostalgia and modern ease
Stepping into Tomorrow is like entering a welcoming time capsule. Established decades ago, this cozy kissaten is tucked on the second floor of a modest building—reachable by elevator—yet instantly transports you back to mid-20th-century Japan. Wood-paneled walls, mismatched clocks, framed art, and lacquered tables fill the space, while plush leather sofas invite you to settle in and stay awhile. The thick Tobe-yaki porcelain cups, used for serving coffee, add an artisan touch that feels deliberate and warm.
The name “Tomorrow” blends optimistic English with the deeper meaning in its kanji form, suggesting paths shared among friends, hinting “see you tomorrow.” It reflects the atmosphere: a place that’s both comforting and hopeful, grounding visitors while inviting them back again. The collection of donated novels and magazines, carefully displayed, plus a cozy library nook, truly makes it feel lived-in and beloved.
Despite the nostalgic setting, Tomorrow is designed for today’s needs. Every seat is equipped with power outlets and Wi‑Fi, and staff lend chargers or pens on request. A gentle reminder on the wall suggests ordering something again after two hours, ensuring a respectful turnover without feeling rushed . Smoking and non-smoking sections are carefully separated, showing thoughtfulness toward different preferences.
Opening bright and early at 5:30 AM, Tomorrow caters to early risers through breakfast, transitions to a bustling lunch hub, and remains open for evening diners until around 11 PM. It’s a beloved spot for everyone from neighborhood elders sipping morning coffee to suitcases-toting travelers seeking a rest, office workers typing away at laptops, and students catching up over tea. The café hums with life that balances community warmth and individual quiet.
Though it channels nostalgic charm, Tomorrow is far from a frozen relic. It serves homemade comfort foods—fish from Tsukiji in the morning, hearty lunch sets, nostalgic western dishes, and daily specials—revealing an earnest dedication to timeless hospitality delivered with care. The blend of the old‑school atmosphere, considerate design, and flexible hours all contribute to its enduring reputation among locals and visitors alike.
Review of the menu and taste: nostalgic favorites with a twist
Tomorrow’s menu reads like a celebration of familiar comfort food, each served with attention and affection. The house blend coffee, poured into those classic porcelain mugs, strikes a harmonious balance: not too bitter, not too light—just gentle and satisfying, making it a perfect companion to any meal.
The Napolitan pasta is a must-try. Thick, chewy noodles immersed in a slightly sweet ketchup sauce come loaded with bacon, onions, green peppers, and occasional bits of shrimp—light, nostalgic, and never cloying. A dusting of aged Parmesan, offered as a premium topping, elevates each forkful with a rich, savory boost. The set includes soup—either miso or consommé—and salad, making it a balanced comfort lunch at an approachable price of around 880–1,000 JPY.
Other midday offerings include ginger pork with a flavorful soy-ginger glaze, hamburg steak, and grilled fish imported from Tsukiji. Dinner portions come with rice, soup, salad, and a drink, typically priced between 1,600–1,800 JPY—generous, flavorful, and steady in quality.
Morning visits bring hearty toast, hot sandwiches, onigiri with miso soup, and grilled fish plates—all delivered with refreshing simplicity and cost-conscious portions (500–1,080 JPY). It’s a satisfying way to start the day without unnecessary fuss.
For those with a sweet tooth, homemade desserts shine. French toast is soft and fluffy, the pudding custardy and nostalgic, and parfaits are layered with fruit and cream. Even Japanese TV has featured the French toast, praising its texture and comfort-food charm.
Your laptop hums in the corner, coffee cooling slowly beside work, while nearby someone indulges in a dreamy slice of French toast—it’s such a simple, effective moment. Portions are generous but not overwhelming, and every dish delivers honest, no-frills flavor with clear care behind it.
Tips for visiting the shop: making your time count
Arriving between 5:30 and 8 AM means soft morning light and minimal chatter—ideal for a quiet breakfast or early work session. As lunchtime nears after 11 AM, the café grows lively with local workers, students, and travelers. If you want energy but still some breathing room, drop in after 2 PM when the initial wave has passed but the ambiance remains pleasant.
If you prefer fresh air or are smoke-sensitive, make it known you’d like a non-smoking seat; the few smoke-free chairs fill quickly, but the staff will always help if asked . Keep in mind this is a cash-only venue—ATM stops before your visit will keep things smooth.
Bringing a laptop is no problem—the café is wired with Wi‑Fi and outlets. They’ll even lend a charger or stationery item if needed. If you’re working through the morning or afternoon, be ready for a gentle reminder to order again after two hours—a polite way to maintain the café’s flow.
The soundtrack shifts as the day progresses. Morning hours are quiet or softly jazz-tinged, noon reverberates with orders and laughter, and evenings return to mellow vibes. It’s a living café, where the mood evolves with time and crowd.
Don’t miss the small delights: pick up a book from the “Tomorrow Library” or flip through one of the magazines on hand. On quieter weekday afternoons, lines for French toast are rare—go ahead and treat yourself without a queue . And if Napolitan is your comfort food, go for the set with aged Parmesan and maybe a dash of Tabasco—simple yet indulgent.
Wonder Point
Tomorrow offers a rare mix of nostalgic charm, thoughtful service, and contemporary comfort. Whether you begin your day with a warm coffee, settle in for work with the Napolitan set, or finish with fluffy French toast, each visit feels honest and comforting. Outlets, Wi‑Fi, library nook, and that welcoming cash-only charm all add up to more than a café—it’s a hometown escape in downtown Tokyo. Anyone in Akabane searching for a cozy retreat where flavor, familiarity, and friendliness meet should make Tomorrow their go-to. You’ll leave refreshed, full, and ready for what comes next.
- Tomorrow (喫茶店 友路有)
- Phone: +81 03‑3903‑5577
- 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- 2F Ōtake Building, 1‑1‑5 Akabane, Kita‑ku, Tokyo
