Tokyo Eats & Stays: Where Coffee Meets Canvas - Exploring Lurf Gallery Cafe in Daikanyama
Daikan’yama is one of Tokyo’s most charming neighbourhoods, a short and pleasant walk from Shibuya (a 15 minutes walk station to station), Ebisu (8 minutes), or Nakameguro (9 minutes). With its tree-lined streets, stylish boutiques, and embassies tucked between greenery, it’s an oasis of calm in the city. A key attraction in the area is T-Site, the iconic bookstore designed by none other than KDA, which houses a Starbucks and the popular Princi Cafe. This is a place I always take visitors - there are less and less brick-and-mortar bookstores - and this is probably one of the most beautiful in Tokyo. However, these spots are often so busy that queuing is inevitable - especially if the weather is nice, making the coveted outdoor seating almost impossible to snag. For the upscale Ivy Place, you’ll either need to queue or secure a reservation (I always book ahead when I go).
For those seeking a more tranquil yet equally sophisticated alternative, Lurf Gallery Cafe is a perfect choice. Located just between T-Site and Daikan’yama Station, this hidden gem blends exceptional coffee, artisanal treats, and timeless Scandinavian design in a serene, artful setting. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur, an art lover, or simply looking for a spot to unwind, Lurf Gallery Cafe offers a refreshing escape.
Copyright: Lurf Gallery
A Welcoming Ambiance with Vintage Charm
Tucked inside a stylish concrete building at 28-13 Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, the cafe is designed to feel both sophisticated and cosy. Its interior is furnished with authentic 1930s Danish vintage pieces, including iconic PH lamps and elegant armchairs. These design elements not only add character but also create an inviting space where you can relax and enjoy a slower pace. The high ceilings (4 meters!) give the space an airy feel, complemented by the soft tones of analogue vinyl music playing in the background.
A Thoughtfully Curated Menu
Lurf Gallery Cafe takes pride in serving premium drinks and desserts, each selected from Japan’s best artisanal producers. Highlights of the menu include:
Hand-dripped coffee from the renowned Glitch Coffee & Roasters, known for its precision brewing and bold flavours.
Carrot cake from Nagoya’s famed Still Life, a perfectly spiced treat with a moist texture and creamy frosting.
Pound cakes from Ennismore Gardens, an ideal pairing with coffee or tea.
Premium tea blends sourced from Uf-fu, a Hyogo-based tea house celebrated for its refined selections.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso or settling in with a full dessert pairing, the menu promises quality and care in every bite and sip.
As I always have a cheese cake, if there’s one on the menu, I had one along with a coffee.
More Than Just a Cafe
While the focus here is on relaxation, Lurf Gallery Cafe also encourages exploration. The second floor houses a contemporary art gallery, showcasing rotating exhibitions from emerging and established artists. The thoughtfully curated pieces are approachable, ensuring that even casual visitors feel comfortable engaging with the art. Meanwhile, the first floor cafe doubles as a shop, offering a selection of fashion and art goods for those looking to take home a piece of their experience.
Plan Your Visit
Lurf Gallery Cafe is open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00pm (last order 6:30 pm), making it the perfect spot to grab a morning coffee, enjoy a leisurely afternoon, or wind down after a day of shopping in Daikan’yama.
Next time you find yourself in Tokyo, skip the crowded coffee chains and venture to this hidden gem instead. Whether you’re savouring hand-dripped coffee, admiring Scandinavian design, or browsing the latest art exhibition, Lurf Gallery Cafe offers a uniquely Daikan’yama experience you won’t forget.
PS: You might have to queue here as well, but there’s good news - if the place is busy, customers are kindly asked to stay for a maximum of sixty minutes, which helps keep the waiting time manageable!
LURF GALLERY
Roob1-1F 2F, Sarugakucho 28-13, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo-to.
Check their Instagram.
For Lurf Gallery’s current exhibitions check their website or Tokyo Art Beat.