Good afternoon and welcome to another exciting episode of “Shops of Tokyo That Don’t Really Want to Be in the Business They’re In.” These are the businesses so disinterested in their chosen profession, their barely tolerated customers feel fortunate to be allowed through the doors.
This is near where I live and I pass it all the time.
After the previous shop moved I was very curious what would replace it and eagerly watched the changes. Was surprised to discover that Fuglen moved into the tiny spot, and even more surprised when I read the notice at the entrance.
Fuglen is clearly tuned in as something is happening in this neighborhood.
Many small trendy shops have been opening around here recently. Another tiny coffee shop opened around the corner and had a line of people waiting in front yesterday.
The main drag to Meiji Jingu has been beautified and now occasionally hosts trendy mobile kitchens.
An art gallery and a boutique for tableware opened the past few years in the small backstreet behind my building.
There are two handmade ice cream shops within walking distance from each other.
It feels like a forgotten and sleepy corner of Tokyo is very slowly waking up.
And yet the Sangubashi shotengai has precisely two memorable restaurants and a ton of schlock. Maybe as you say it’s in the backstreets and around the corners.
Yes, it is happening outside the established structures at locations where one would least expect it. And it is still very piecemeal. But it is happening and Shibuya-ku is trying to stimulate it.
I can see that you know the neighborhood well. You live here?
Basil Fawlty is alive and living in Japan.
Don’t mention the war!
This piece is so great.
I am pleased to report that this shop has been empty every day since.
They're playing up to the snooties.
Almost forgot... have you seen Midnight Diner? It was on Netflix.
Lolololololololol
This is near where I live and I pass it all the time.
After the previous shop moved I was very curious what would replace it and eagerly watched the changes. Was surprised to discover that Fuglen moved into the tiny spot, and even more surprised when I read the notice at the entrance.
There nonetheless seem to be customers every day…
More power to Fuglen! They understand the customer base and deservedly can succeed.
Fuglen is clearly tuned in as something is happening in this neighborhood.
Many small trendy shops have been opening around here recently. Another tiny coffee shop opened around the corner and had a line of people waiting in front yesterday.
The main drag to Meiji Jingu has been beautified and now occasionally hosts trendy mobile kitchens.
An art gallery and a boutique for tableware opened the past few years in the small backstreet behind my building.
There are two handmade ice cream shops within walking distance from each other.
It feels like a forgotten and sleepy corner of Tokyo is very slowly waking up.
And yet the Sangubashi shotengai has precisely two memorable restaurants and a ton of schlock. Maybe as you say it’s in the backstreets and around the corners.
Yes, it is happening outside the established structures at locations where one would least expect it. And it is still very piecemeal. But it is happening and Shibuya-ku is trying to stimulate it.
I can see that you know the neighborhood well. You live here?
Well they started it. They bombed Hawaii.