Toriba Coffee

Located within a short walking distance of approximately 10 minutes from either Jingu-Marutamachi Station or Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line, is the retro ‘Toriba Coffee’. This unique café is housed in a former kimono shop and wagashi (Japanese sweets) shop, adding a touch of nostalgic charm to its atmosphere. Toriba Coffee, originally a renowned coffee roaster and retail store, first established its presence in the prestigious Ginza district of Tokyo before finding its new home in Kyoto in February 2023.

Stepping into Toriba Coffee, you’ll quickly realize that it transcends the typical café or coffee shop experience, aiming instead to provide visitors with a refined appreciation for the art of coffee. The building itself is a magnificent kominka, boasting over 80 years of history and exuding a sense of traditional elegance.

As you explore the interior, your eyes will be drawn to the exquisite details that decorate the space. The wall opposite the coffee counter showcases a row of plush upholstered sofas, adorned with Persian rugs carefully selected during a journey to Turkey. In the atrium of the cafe, is the grand chandelier suspended above the main seating area, which once graced their renowned Ginza store.

Venturing further into the café, you’ll discover a secluded seating area at the back. Here, a large table offers a serene view of the tsuboniwa, a traditional Japanese courtyard garden. The beautiful retro coffered ceiling adds a touch of nostalgia, transporting you to a bygone era.

Toriba Coffee’s concept revolves around the pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee, regardless of who makes it or how it is prepared. The menu features a selection of five distinct flavors, including the prized Hawaiian Kona coffee sourced from Toriba’s very own plantation on Hawaii’s Big Island. Besides coffee Toriba also offers plant based/vegan foods and sells coffee as well as bancha (a type of Japanese green tea).

Toriba Coffee invites coffee enthusiasts and curious visitors alike to indulge in the artistry of coffee and enjoy the retro ambiance of the historic building.