MATSUYA COFFEE

Toranomon Hills, Tokyo, November 2024 Matsuya Coffee is an old-fashioned, small, and original coffee shop dating back to 1918, and what a find! Not on my well-curated list and just a stone’s throw from the hotel. The building stands on its own, surrounded by the high-rises and rapid development that define this bustling area of business and commerce. With only a handful of seats inside, it feels like a spot more suited to commuters and passersby like me! I was warmly welcomed by @matsuyacoffeeten and guided through some of their beans. No espresso here, just pour-over and today’s house selection was from the Burundi Dohorerabarimyi Coop, a beautifully balanced cup with a clean, crisp profile. Grown at high altitudes in the Kayanza Province, this coffee showcased vibrant notes of citrus and sweet stone fruits, with a subtle floral finish that lingered just long enough to leave me wanting another sip.