cafe freeman

As you wait after placing your order, the aroma of cooking oil sizzling in the kitchen whets your appetite. Tucked into Shinjuku's Kawadacho neighborhood, cafe freeman is an unpretentious retro kissaten that draws guests looking for comforting food and coffee. The spaghetti Napolitan brought to your table delivers a deeply satisfying, sweet-savory profile with plenty of substance. Ordering it as a set with a small salad and after-meal coffee makes for an easy, fulfilling midday break.

Those looking for a less common offering can turn to the Spaghetti Oriental. Boiled noodles are tossed with curry sauce, where a mild, lightly sweet roux loaded with pork, carrots, and mushrooms clings closely to the pasta. The light meal selection also includes house-special curry, shrimp pilaf, and pressed sandwiches filled with cheese, ham, or egg, letting diners suit their appetite to the moment.

For a pause after eating or an afternoon coffee break, guests can order the classic house blend alongside single-origin coffees such as Kilimanjaro, Mandheling, and Mocha. Refreshing retro cafe drinks like lemon squash and soda floats are also served. The shop is open during weekday daytime hours and operates on a cash-only basis, both helpful points to keep in mind when planning a stop.