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Setagaya

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Setagaya City, Tokyo, Bear Pond Espresso is a charming café that has gained a reputation for its exceptional coffee and unique atmosphere. Located at 2-chōme-36-12 Kitazawa, this cozy spot is particularly famous for its specialty drinks, including the renowned "dirty coffee". Whether you're a local or a visitor, Bear Pond Espresso offers a delightful experience for coffee enthusiasts looking to indulge in high-quality brews.

Bear Pond Espresso specializes in a variety of coffee drinks that cater to different tastes. Here are some highlights of their menu:

Signature Dirty Coffee: A must-try for first-timers, known for its strong flavor and unique layering.

T*O*P Latte: A popular choice among patrons, praised for its balanced taste.

Espresso: Made using the famous "la Marzocco" machine, ensuring high quality.

Bear Pond Espresso is conveniently located in Setagaya, a vibrant area known for its local shops and parks. Visitors can easily explore nearby attractions such as:

Setagaya Park: A beautiful green space perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Shimo-Kitazawa: A trendy neighborhood known for its vintage shops and lively atmosphere.

Local Thrift Stores: Perfect for those looking to find unique fashion pieces.

Whether you're stopping by for a quick coffee or looking to relax in a cozy environment, Bear Pond Espresso is a delightful destination that captures the essence of Tokyo's café culture.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLTZuOXBRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzLTZuOXBRRRAB

This coffee shop is on my list of places to visit. After reading the reviews, I was surprised by its low rating for a coffee shop in Tokyo. Most reviews focused on the customer service rather than the actual taste of the coffee, so I decided to try it for myself.

• Coffee
I ordered a hot T*O*P latte. The taste was okay, scoring a 7/10 for me. It wasn’t great, but it wasn’t bad either. I might try their dirty latte next time.

• Price
I bought two hot T*O*P lattes, which are kind of their specialty. It cost ¥1300 for both, which I think is fair for specialty coffee.

• Customer Service
There were many complaints about the customer service, but my experience was just okay—not terrible. The clerk didn’t smile at all, which might suggest he was tired. While I didn’t mind, some people might see that as unfriendly. I ordered in Japanese, but he responded in English, which confused me a bit. Maybe it was because I don’t look very Japanese.

• Payment
The coffee shop didn't accept cashless payments. I couldn’t use my card, so I had to pay in cash. It’s 2024—why is that still a thing?

Overall, my feelings about the coffee shop are neutral. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn’t great either. I didn’t feel a warm atmosphere, but the coffee was decent.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bzYzNGdBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bzYzNGdBRRAB

There’s something special about this coffee shop.

Bear Pond was on the top of the list for one of my coffee loving friends who visited Tokyo earlier this year, so after hearing him rave about it, I decided to go in and grab myself a coffee when I stumbled across the shop amidst a day of thrift shopping.

I lucked out as there was no line, found a cozy spot to sit and had no problem with the service. Coffee was delicious and well balanced. Latte art was also 10/10. Given the positive experience, maybe… just maybe, I’ll muster up the courage next time to ask for an Angel Stain 👼☕️

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaU9lOFZBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyaU9lOFZBEAE

Good coffee and the origin of dirty coffee menu.   The original is of course the original but I find Thai baristas take this menu and elevated it to a new high. No fault but also not wow. Cozy seating area for no more than 10 persons. Good for grab and go kind of place. Cash only.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYbXJic2RnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYbXJic2RnEAE

Very high quality coffee, impressed. Even if the espresso was a bit burned the sweetness and the texture were so good it was still drinkable and pleasing. They use the famous "la Marzocco" machine from Italy. The atmosphere is a bit hipster, thr place is tiny, great for a quick drink. Unfortunately the price of drink is expensive (espresso 500 jpy) so it is not a place you can use everyday.
2 cons:
1. price
2. Staff attitude. No smile, no welcome, no greeting when leave. Very cold.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeHM3cFVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ_6-SI2vzGGARTwHyOGabtyI/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIeHM3cFVREAE

Came to the origin of Dirty. There were many espresso based drinks on the menu, but I already decided on what to order even before I came here. It's a small space in an old town, so the cafe maintains the classic vibes. Dirty came out exactly how I expected: strong and flavourful. For first timers, please don't stir your drink. You have to enjoy it through the layers.

Discover Bear Pond Espresso: Setagaya’s Cozy Coffee Spot

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A gem hidden in the vibrant tapestry of Setagaya City, Bear Pond Espresso beckons with the warm embrace of aromatic brews and a laid-back atmosphere that feels uniquely Tokyo. This charming café, tucked away on a quaint street in the Kitazawa district, is where coffee lovers embark on a sensory journey, savoring meticulously crafted espresso that has garnered a loyal following. The moment you step inside, the eclectic decor—a blend of rustic wood, minimalist furnishings, and quirky art—invites you to linger, making it the perfect retreat from the bustling city outside. Bear Pond Espresso’s signature drinks, like the beloved ‘Bear Pond’ espresso, are steeped in a dedication to quality, featuring beans sourced from premium origins and roasted to perfection. Here, each cup is more than just a drink; it’s an experience, one that celebrates the artistry of coffee-making. Patrons often find themselves huddled over their steaming cups, engaged in quiet conversations or simply lost in thought, as the ambiance wraps around them like a comforting blanket. Beyond the espresso, the café fosters a sense of community amongst its visitors. Artisanal pastries and light bites, crafted with as much passion as the coffee, complement the menu and invite a lazy afternoon of indulgence. Nearby, the enchanting streets of Kitazawa, lined with trendy boutiques and art galleries, provide the ideal backdrop for a post-café stroll, allowing you to fully soak in the essence of this creative Tokyo district. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply seeking an idyllic spot to relax, Bear Pond Espresso offers a slice of tranquility where the love for coffee converges with the heartbeat of urban life.

Bear Pond Espresso

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Discover Bear Pond Espresso in Setagaya, Tokyo—home to Japan's best brews and cozy vibes. Indulge your senses and sip exceptional coffee today!

Discover Bear Pond Espresso: Setagaya’s Cozy Coffee Spot

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