As cherry blossom season reaches its peak each year, let’s adorn our Tokyo sakura journey with a touch of elegance at the world’s most stylish Starbucks. Exiting Meguro Station and following the crowd toward the Meguro River, we step forward in anticipation.
There, at the end of the lantern-lit path along the Meguro River, stands a refined castle nestled in a floral forest—a beacon waving from afar.
For travelers embarking on a Tokyo adventure, there’s a new pilgrimage site to add to your list! The Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo, which opened its doors on February 28, 2019, sits gracefully along the banks of the Meguro River—a prime spot for cherry blossoms. Here, visitors can capture the essence of spring while sipping their coffee and snapping photos.
It’s become a trend to visit this enchanting location, whether during the day or under the mesmerizing night lights. In my quest to document the ever-changing views—from dawn to dusk—I’ve returned to this spot twice.
Dubbed the world’s most fashionable Starbucks, this Tokyo gem reveals its grandeur in the minutest details. Take, for instance, the stone sign adorned with tiny stars—a celestial touch that embodies the essence of “Reserve”. The enigmatic R stands for “Reserve for the best!” —a promise that transcends mere coffee.
After patiently waiting in line, we finally snagged our numbered ticket! We arrived promptly at 10:00 a.m. and luck was on our side—we drew number 3506. Quite impressive, don’t you think?
On my second visit, the cherry blossoms along the Meguro River had burst into full bloom. Even though they were only at 80%, my eyes brimmed with emotion. It felt as if people from all corners of the world were celebrating alongside me, savoring the fragrant coffee under the sakura trees.
Bravo! Once again, the renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma has worked his magic. After the stunning success of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Dazaifu, Kyushu, Kuma’s latest architectural masterpiece features an extensive glass curtain wall, allowing copious amounts of natural light to infuse the space with a sense of sophistication.
Kengo Kuma, the renowned Japanese architect, has ingeniously incorporated the concept of “spaces filled with light” into interior design. By using floor-to-ceiling glass windows, he breaks down the barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless and unprecedented cherry blossom viewing area that harmoniously connects the inside and outside.
Kengo Kuma, the renowned Japanese architect, excels in blending art, nature, and natural materials in his architectural style. His designs create warm and harmonious spaces that seamlessly integrate with their surroundings.
“Beauty lies in the accumulation of the mundane.” This is the signature stacking technique that architect Kengo Kuma excels at, resulting in awe-inspiring structures. In Dazaifu, he employed tens of thousands of wooden logs, while along the Meguro River, the artistry is achieved through the layering of coasters and coffee cups.
The Reserve Roastery Tokyo spans four floors, and the most eye-catching feature on the ground floor is the colossal coffee roaster that stretches from the first floor all the way up to the third floor, towering at an impressive 17 meters.
If you think this coffee roaster is impressive solely due to its height, think again! Upon closer inspection, the material and texture are downright remarkable. The craftsmanship is truly extraordinary!
Adorning its surface are an astounding 2,100 copper sakura blossoms, infusing the space with a distinctly Japanese ambiance.
For my second visit, I couldn’t resist having another cup of coffee. What captivates me the most here is the open-concept coffee bar. As someone who appreciates pour-over coffee, I can observe the meticulous process of crafting each cup. It’s like witnessing a coffee symphony unfold before my eyes!
For coffee enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like getting up close and personal with brewing tools like the French press coffee maker and the siphon coffee maker. These instruments, whether it’s the classic French press or the intriguing siphon, reveal the artistry behind each cup of coffee.
Whether you’re a Starbucks aficionado or not, this place is an absolute coffee pilgrimage site for anyone who loves their brew!
Taking inspiration from other top-tier locations in Japan, the Reserve Roastery Tokyo has meticulously designed an interactive workshop space. Here, coffee enthusiasts can engage with coffee connoisseurs and master roasters up close, all while savoring an array of exceptional beverages. It’s a haven where flavor meets craftsmanship!
Interestingly, the bakery here was another reason that drew me back. This renowned Italian bakery, Princi, has set up its first location in Japan right here! They offer an impressive selection of around 80 types of bread.
Combining carefully selected coffee with exquisite pastries, here at the Reserve Roastery Tokyo, you get to savor freshly baked bread straight out of the oven. And during specific hours, you can even indulge in the restaurant’s unique Italian dishes!
Here, you’ll find an array of exclusive merchandise. For instance, there are sakura-themed mugs inspired by the Meguro River, along with eco-friendly bags, tote bags, coffee carafes, and brewing accessories. And when it comes to coffee beans, the selection is abundant—truly a coffee lover’s paradise!
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo is akin to a boutique coffee haven within the world of Starbucks.
On the second floor of the building, “Teavana” takes center stage, offering a delightful array of Japanese teas. Here, travelers can indulge their taste buds with exquisitely crafted wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) and savor the delicate nuances of Japanese tea. It’s a sensory journey into the heart of Japanese culture!
Ascending to the third floor, you’ll find the “Arriviamo Bar.” The ambiance here is more suited for adults.
Curating the top 100 trendiest drink selections, this place is perfect whether you’re seeking clarity with a cup of coffee or aiming for a delightful buzz. And if you desire that sweet spot between sobriety and merriment, fear not—their cocktail-infused coffees will surely satisfy your poetic spirit!
Skillfully embracing the Italian concept of “aperitivo,” this place blurs the lines between a coffee shop and a lounge bar. And believe it or not, there’s an impressive selection of over a hundred choices!
On the third floor, a row of lounge-style bar counters awaits, where you can sit and enjoy either cocktails or coffee. The cocktail menu also changes with the seasons, ensuring a delightful experience no matter your preference.
The fourth floor houses “AMU TOKYO,” a place dedicated to the production and packaging of their own freshly roasted coffee beans.
How each package of goods is meticulously produced on the assembly line is demonstrated. The space here periodically hosts workshops and events that delve into coffee culture.
If coffee can make us alert, this is undoubtedly the intoxicating cocktail coffee! And with the enchanting ambiance, it’s impossible not to feel a little tipsy!
It’s no wonder that this Starbucks Reserve Roastery, ranked among the world’s most stylish, chose to nestle itself alongside the picturesque Meguro River—one of Tokyo’s renowned cherry blossom viewing spots. The fusion of these elements is undeniably a stroke of genius!
（Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo）
