Best Outdoor Cafes & Restaurants in Tokyo for Scenic Dining

Looking to enjoy a meal with a view of Tokyo’s unique scenery? From cozy izakayas (Japanese-style pubs) beneath elevated railway tracks to rooftop beer gardens with stunning night vistas, and serene garden cafes nestled away from the city’s hustle and bustle, our editor-in-chief Marei has curated a list of the best outdoor dining spots in Tokyo.

Retro Charm at “Manpuku Shokudo” Izakaya Near Yurakucho Station

Walking from Tokyo Station along the railroad tracks to Yurakucho Station, you’ll encounter a historic brick arch viaduct over a century old. Beneath this charming viaduct lies a variety of restaurants and shops, a favorite among locals and office workers for its picturesque setting.

Actually, there is a hole behind these doors. The brick viaduct designed by the German architect mentioned above was very heavy as a building, so he left these holes/tunnels open on purpose.

The area around Yurakucho Station boasts charming retro izakayas. One standout spot is Manpuku Shokudo, where you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to old Tokyo. Enjoy home-style dishes and snacks perfectly paired with beer while taking in the night view and lively street scene.

Manpuku Shokudo

Inside Manpuku Shokudo, the nostalgic Showa period ambiance, complete with vintage aromas, offers a unique dining experience. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this special setting.

A Japanese egg omelette is always a good choice!
Manpuku Shokudo

https://manpuku-syokudo.com
2-4-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/BVPCYiL5bYEofyoe8
Nearest Stations: Yurakucho Station, Hibiya Station

Enjoy a Night View at GINZA SKY BEER TERRACE

Ginza Sky Beer Terrace, operated by the renowned TOKYO KAIKAN, opens its doors every summer. Located on the 13th floor of the “Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan” building in front of Yurakucho Station, this beer garden offers a prime spot for enjoying gourmet cuisine with an urban night view.

With terrace seating overlooking the city center, guests can indulge in unlimited cold beer and delicious meals from a selection of courses. Savoring a refreshing beer with a pleasant breeze is a quintessential summer tradition in Japan.

The superb night view from 40 meters above the ground. The red brick building is Tokyo Station.
TOKYO KAIKAN GINZA SKY BEER TERRACE

https://www.kaikan.co.jp/special/beer/skybeerterrace/
Period: June 18 – September 7, 2024
(*Closed on Sundays and national holidays *Suspended during inclement weather)
Reservation phone: 03-3212-2776
Address: Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan 13F, 2-10-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kBYS1RrQSbLnYsYj8

Discover Dining Delights in Kitanomaru Garden: Café & Restaurant “CAFÉ 33”

Located on the north side of the Imperial Palace, Kitanomaru Garden is a delightful destination for a stroll, featuring landmarks such as the Nippon Budokan, the National Museum of Modern Art, the National Archives of Japan, and the Science Museum. This beautiful park also serves as the gateway to Edo Castle, offering a serene environment for visitors.

CAFÉ 33 is conveniently situated near the Budokan and offers a diverse menu of café dishes, including pizza, sandwiches, loco moco, and salads, along with a variety of drinks such as coffee and beer. For those wishing to enjoy the lush greenery surrounding the café, terrace seating is highly recommended.

(Top left) Inside the restaurant (Top right) Pizza with prosciutto and mushrooms (Bottom left) Green tea latte and caramel latte (Bottom right) Loco moco with fried egg and original hamburger steak

During the summer, CAFÉ 33 features a special menu item: shaved ice made with natural ice from Nikko City. This year’s offerings include pistachio and chocolate, strawberry with three types of sauces, and mango passion fruit with coconut milk. After a hot day in central Tokyo or a refreshing walk in the park, be sure to cool off with this quintessentially Japanese summer treat.

I chose the mango passion fruit shaved ice from the three varieties. Tropical and not too sweet, it was superb!
CAFÉ 33

Address: 1-1 Kitanomaru-Koen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/PQNp9xkFhbwi6BHE9
Access : Kudanshita Station, Takebashi Station

Hibiya Matsumotoro: A Historic Dining Experience in Hibiya Park

Established in 1903, Hibiya Matsumotoro is a charming restaurant nestled within Hibiya Park, Japan’s first Western-style park.

The lovely Pelican Fountain in Hibiya Park

In its early days, Hibiya Matsumotoro became popular among the fashionable youth for its curry rice and coffee.

The “Grill & Garden Terrace” on the first floor serves “high-carat” Western cuisine, a style beloved for over a century. Offering lunch, teatime, and dinner, the restaurant is known for its famous beef curry. For those eager to sample various dishes, the “Matsumotoro’s Big Plate of Choice” is recommended.

There is a sample menu at the entrance, easy to understand!

This set includes omelette rice with a choice of three sauces, including curry sauce, and options such as hamburger steak, creamy crab croquette, or fried shrimp.

Omelet rice with mushroom cream sauce and hamburger steak

The fluffy omelette rice topped with creamy demi-glace brown sauce is a standout dish.

It’s enchanting to think that people have enjoyed meals on this terrace for the past 100 years. For a relaxing terrace dinner amidst nature, a visit to Hibiya Matsumotoro is a must!

Hibiya Matsumotoro

http://www.matsumotoro.co.jp
1-2 Hibiya Park, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/Q6nZzBfehGXgfPjL8
Nearest stations: Hibiya Station, Kasumigaseki Station, Uchisaiwaicho Station, Yurakucho Station, Toranomon Station, Sakuradamon Station

Whether you are in search of a nostalgic journey through Tokyo’s past or a modern rooftop experience, these outdoor cafes and restaurants offer unforgettable dining with stunning views. Enjoy the best of Tokyo’s culinary highlights and fantastic scenery!