Takagi Coffee - Karasuma — Restaurant in Kyoto

A coffee shop that clings on the bygone eras of the 70s and 80s in its deco. Plays the big band/Dixieland Jazz music in the background. One can see why some people like this place - it’s very different from other japanese diners obviously. And not as stale as places like Mac or Starbucks.

Big warning though - smoking is allowed. And it is not your typical “Sir, would you want a smoking or non-smoking section”. Nope. We are talking about somebody who could potentially be sitting next to you puffing on his morning cigarette, in a small coffee shop. Having said that, the place did not smell of tobacco.

I didnt order the toast somehow, though there were reviews singing praises of it. I ordered the pancakes set - that came with 3 pancakes, 2 small sausages and a cup of coffee. 1000Y for the set.

The pancake tasted like any other pancake. Nothing fancy. Sausages was, well, normal. Coffee was not too bad. But then again, everybody has an opinion on what is a good coffee.

So there lies the big question - was it worth it ?

I went to Mac for breakfast also, and ordered the pancake breakfast set. Almost exactly the same thing - 3 pancakes, coffee from McCafe and hashbrown (instead of sausages). I paid 580Y. I had Nat King Cole crooning in the background while i chomp on my pancakes too.

So for a difference of 420Y, one gets 70/80s deco diner, potentially with a smoker puffing next to you, two fantastic waiters running a tight ship, no kids, just like-minded adults indulging in some good coffee.

My answer ? - it’s not the money. Just go for it - it’s different, it’s quirky,...

I love this place! The nicest staff ever! Very impressive as only 3 guys hold this place down with kindness and efficiency. The French toast is AMAZING! Crispy outside and a soft, gooey inside! They also have arguably the best coffee I've had in Japan! The simple dish with scrambled eggs, sausage and toast is so satisfying, it's the perfect breakfast. After stumbling upon this place the first time, we ended up eating here 3 out of the 5 days we were in Kyoto. Lunch looks great too but this review is only for their breakfast. Only downside (if you are like me) is that smoking is allowed and it's a small space. But they were always nice enough to try and sit us somewhere a little more secluded from...

Came here for breakfast as it was one of the few local cafes that was open at 7am! There are a couple of breakfast set options from 500yen+, or you can also just order coffee. Rich breakfast set was 720yen, came with toast, sausages, potato salad and egg. Coffee was well brewed, atmosphere is relaxing and non-smoking (due to Covid restrictions, I believe). The other branch nearby is smoking.

Run by two gentlemen who also make sure that Covid precautions are taken. Highly recommend! Perfect to fuel up for a...