In the somewhat less chaotic and busy part of Shibuya you’ll find Daikanyama, filled with boutiques, cafés and bakeries galore. It’s in that relaxed atmosphere that’ll you’ll find the fitting Garden House Crafts, a café, bakery and restaurant come bar on weekends. Having opened June 29th of this year, GHC is the newest addition to the ‘Log Road Daikanyama’ leisure complex. The buildings here are set off the road and run a modern wooden log theme throughout. You'll see a lot of tempting spots along the complex, but I'd recommend walking down the side path towards the last building. This would be GHC, continuing the wooden theme with the addition of surrounding decking, providing shaded outdoor seating with a contrasted view of trees and building tops.
GHC aims to support local businesses and craft products which are used to provide Northern California inspired foods. Opening early at 7:30 each morning, they offer an abundant and healthy breakfast giving you the energy you need to explore Tokyo. Throughout the day you can enjoy hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and baked goods with a more than generous selection to choose from!
My latte was served up in a pretty awesome rustic mug (that I wish I’d taken as a souvenir). The clash of soothing music in a spacious cafe, with the sound of prep work and customers being served gave an alert yet calming atmosphere, allowing me to wake up steadily. It was lunchtime, but I can be a late riser when working hard!
I had the pleasure of meeting a bunch of the staff, some of whom spoke English. You’ll have no translation problems here. There’s Jinny who deals with the sweets and cakes, and Eri the baker. I’ve got to hand it to them that the sweets and baked goods are a thing of beauty! Chef Katy looks after the rest of the food, working swiftly and skillfully with her team. She’s actually from California, which really does help to reinforce the whole North Californian style they’re going for.
I actually met Katy by chance whilst visiting 0fr. Tokyo for a previous article. She recommended I check GHC out if I get a chance, which I did, and boy I’m glad! Easy to get to, it has a great atmosphere, with awesome food and drink. There’s even a cool loft space upstairs, which they’ll try to use as a cinema once a month; check in on their Facebook page for updates.
On Friday and Saturday evenings GHC changes into sort of a bistro venue, offering more tapas style foods along with seasonal cocktails; the perfect way to finish your week!
