Nakano Broadway is ground zero for Japanese pop culture, particularly anime and manga. Artist Takashi Murakami has reopened his cafe Coffee Zingaro hidden away in the back of the building on the second floor. It’s a throwback to the 80s with the music and the tables which are also games like Donkey Kong that can be played. There is Murakami’s art throughout the café, and on the latte with his signature flower. It’s also a stark contrast from his original cafe which was simple.

I asked if the coffee was from Fuglen but the barista said that it wasn’t at that he had roasted it himself in house. It was smooth and easy drinking. The menu includes a Japanese pancake and custard pudding. The bright green muskmelon soda also gives me the feeling of the 80s.

Murakami’s art gallery, Tonari no Zingaro, is on the 4th floor. I believe it’s only open on the weekends. Nakano Broadway is a huge part of Japanese pop culture and so is the artist. A fun spot to visit if you make the trek to the area. If you do visit, also poke your head into the basement where there are some food stalls and a market.

Coffee Zingaro

Nakano-ku, Nakano 5-52-15, Nakano Broadway 2nd floor.

#NakanoBroadway is just north of #Nakano Station and is near #Shinjuku.