DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
DEEPTOKYO
magazine
EN
2025.04.30
A Classic Ginza Kissaten Serving Pour Over Coffee Since 1936
address
Nearest Station
TRICOLORE Main Store is a long-established Kissaten—a traditional Japanese-style coffeehouse that predates the rise of modern cafés—located in the heart of Ginza. Founded in 1936, the café occupies a distinctive red brick building with a revolving door, offering an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia and quiet elegance. Patrons can enjoy expertly brewed pour over coffee (known in Japan as "Nel Drip Coffee"), including the signature "Antique Blend," evoking the tastes and ambiance of the Showa era.
SHARE
Established in 1936 (Showa 11) by Bunji Shibata, who aimed to make coffee a part of everyday life in Japan, TRICOLORE has been a cornerstone of Tokyo’s Kissaten scene. Though the original structure was lost to wartime air raids, the café was rebuilt in 1947 and later renovated into its current two-story form in 1982. The building’s red brick façade and gas lamps lend it the dignified charm of a European street corner, anchoring it in both history and romance.
The red brick exterior stands out even among the glamorous streets of Ginza.
Step through the revolving door and into a world of vintage charm. The first floor is lit by chandeliers and staffed by professionals dressed in vests and neckties, offering a formal yet warm hospitality that’s a hallmark of the Kissatenexperience. The revolving door is not only atmospheric—it’s also functional, shielding the interior from seasonal drafts.
The first floor features a refined, European classical style.
One wall displays a collection of Hermès scarves.
The second floor offers a more serene atmosphere—fewer decorations, more natural light. Wooden tables and chairs are spaced comfortably, inviting guests to spend unhurried time alone. Whether reading, writing, or simply enjoying the view from a window seat, this upstairs hideaway captures the quiet solitude that defines the true spirit of a Kissaten.
Natural light pours in from the skylight and street-facing windows. On rainy days, the ambiance changes beautifully.
Window-side seating is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, solitary experience.
To faithfully recreate the flavors of 1950s–60s Japan, TRICOLORE developed its signature "Antique Blend," made from slightly dark-roasted beans sourced from high-altitude regions in Central and South America. The beans are ground to order and brewed one cup at a time using their custom pour over method. Certified “coffee extraction technicians” bring years of refined skill to every cup, delivering a taste that resonates with the history of Japan’s Kissaten culture.
Served in the classic Kissaten style: coffee brewed with pour over technique and fresh milk poured from a height, all prepared before your eyes—both a flavorful and theatrical experience. Café au lait 1,160 yen
Choux pastry warmed to order and filled with cream for a satisfying, crispy texture. Eclair 690 yen
Available from 8:00 a.m., this popular set includes toasted bread, fresh salad, and your drink of choice. Lines often form for it.Morning Set (with Antique Blend) 1,350 yen
The information contained this article was correct as of 04/30/2025 (the time of publication)
