CAFE SECRET WINDOW — Restaurant in Tokyo

There is an imposed 1 drink per person policy. This wouldn't be a problem if their drinks actually tasted decent. I tried 3 different drinks, and all of them were way too sweet.

They also say you can only stay for 1 hour. However, if you order pancakes, it takes about 35 minutes to be made. When ours arrived, the staff only gave us 1 plate, but it was clear that we were sharing since they gave us 3 forks. The pancake was also too brown , so had a slight burned taste. I think a time limit of 1.5 hours would be more acceptable.

The menu is also hard to understand. They have fancy names for their menu but no explanation underneath as to what the ingredients the drink or food contains.

People hype up Shin Okubo for having nice cafes, but I think it's just because you can get good pictures. The decor was nice and the food is served pretty. Service wasn't anything particularly well done, and...

The service and atmosphere is 5 stars. My pancakes were only 3. I got the Sakura, and since none of the other reviews are explaining what that actually is, I will lol. It's a sweet and salty flavor that is present in the pinkish crystals on top. The waitress explained to me that Japanese people like that flavor, but most foreigners prefer just sweet. I'm happy I did Sakura anyway, because I appreciated the flavor contrast. However, the overall dish just had too much going on and took away from the actual pancake. I've had the fluffy pancakes before on a previous visit to Tokyo and they were just pancakes stacked on top of each other, with some butter on top. Now, these newer style have a bunch of whipped cream, a sticky rice flour layer, sugar/salt crystals, and it's all just too much. I actually felt a little sick right away after eating it.

Overall I'm glad I tried, but I wouldn't...

Cafe Secret window truly lives up to its name. A hidden gem in Tokyo! The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, perfect for a slow morning or afternoon break. There were 30 people lined up outside another pancake place down the street and Cafe Secret window didn’t have a wait. They go to show that quality over hype any day.

The highlight for me was definitely the pancakes. Like eating a pancake marshmallow. Super light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious. We had the Sakura and Matcha. They are whipped and made to order. Takes about 20 minutes and so worth it.

Easily some of the best I’ve had anywhere. Service was friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience even better. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a special café spot for Japanese pancakes...