A rival to Blue Bottle? California’s trendiest Verve Cafe opens in Tokyo’s Shinjuku

▲Verve Coffee Roasters' hot latte.

Reported and photographed by You Ru / Tokyo

American Blue Bottle Coffee is hugely popular in Tokyo, and now another California-based coffee chain, Verve Coffee Roasters, is joining the battle of the chains. Its first-floor location near Shinjuku South Exit boasts a refreshing resort-style vibe — in simpler terms, it’s infused with that laid-back, slightly rocky, free-spirited Californian feel that makes you want to run straight to the beach.


▲%The interior features a minimalist design with a rustic charm.



▲The space is compact, with coffee beans and related merchandise on sale.

Less known among Taiwanese travelers, Verve Coffee Roasters is favored by many Hollywood celebrities in Los Angeles and was once selected by GQ as one of “The Most Important Drinks of Your Day.” This marks Verve Coffee Roasters’ first overseas expansion, and Tokyo was chosen as its first destination. The opening has already drawn attention from coffee enthusiasts.

As one of the most beloved cafes in the U.S., Verve Coffee Roasters in America features a semi-industrial interior design. In Tokyo, however, it feels fresh yet warm. From its earliest days, Verve Coffee Roasters has focused on being “a bridge between farms and customers,” and the store offers many fair-trade coffee products. It also sells pour-over single-origin coffee, espresso, Americanos, and a variety of sweets.


▲%The barista equipment in-store resembles some of that used by Blue Bottle Coffee.


I tried the most basic hot latte, which had rich, velvety foam and expertly poured latte art. The flavor was bold and full-bodied, even more intense than Blue Bottle Coffee’s. The first sip brought a strong coffee aroma, followed by the creamy milk flavor gently emerging afterward. There aren’t many seats inside, so most customers take their drinks to go.


▲Sweets available for purchase in-store.
%The coffee here is just as good as the atmosphere, making it well worth a visit.


Verve Coffee Roasters
Address: 1F NEWoMan, Shinjuku Station South Exit
Phone: 03-6273-1325
Business hours: 8:00 - 22:00