Vintage Nordic Calm in Tokyo – My Visit to Fuglen Tokyo
Nestled in a tranquil corner just a short walk from Yoyogi Park, Fuglen Tokyo (フグレン 東京富ヶ谷) brings Scandinavian sophistication to life with mid-century Norwegian design and meticulously crafted coffee. I visited on a weekday morning and spent about an hour enjoying the retro ambiance and expertly brewed coffee.
☕ Atmosphere & Décor
This small café-bar is housed in a crisp white building adorned with a round red-bird logo. Inside, rich teak wood, handmade wallpaper, and vintage furniture create the feel of a serene Scandinavian living room from the 1950s–60s. Most of the seating—including the built-in benches outside—is available for purchase, as Fuglen doubles as a design boutique showcasing Nordic classics.
🍵 What I Tried
I ordered a light-roast hand-brewed coffee, which was elegantly balanced with gentle acidity and a clean finish—roasted by Fuglen’s own roastery in Tokyo. I also tried the crispy Norwegian waffle with brown cheese, a playful specialty that reflects their Norwegian heritage.
🕒 Practical Info
• Opening Hours: 7am–10pm (Mon/Tue), extended to ~1am or later (Wed–Sun)
• Location: 1-16-11 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo (about a 5-minute walk from Yoyogi-Koen Station)
• Seating: Approximately 23 seats, including sofas, a counter bar, and outdoor benches; compact and cozy
• Prices: Coffee ranges from ¥450–600; cocktails start at ¥1,300+ in the evening
🌟 Why It’s Worth Visiting
• Exceptional Light-Roast Coffee: Nordic-style espresso and filter coffee highlight careful roasting and barista expertise, making it a favorite among Tokyo’s coffee enthusiasts.
• Scandinavian Design Space: A curated café where the furniture, lighting, and décor feel collectible and timeless.
• Dual Café-Bar Identity: Quiet and contemplative during the day; transforms into a cocktail lounge with craft drinks in the evening. Their ginger daiquiri and seasonal offerings are highly praised.
• Community & Style Hub: A gathering spot for creatives, expats, and locals, with connections to Norwegian design events and rotating exhibits.
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💭 Final Thoughts
Fuglen Tokyo feels like stepping into a timeless Nordic living room where coffee, design, and culture converge. Whether you’re in the mood for a refined latte or a stylish evening cocktail, it offers a serene yet vibrant experience right next to Yoyogi Park. Just be prepared for cozy seating and a relaxed, deliberate pace.