Kohishaya

Step inside Kohishaya and you are greeted by an intimate space centred on counter seating, steeped in a warm, domestic air. While the exterior sports a café sign, lunchtime sees plenty of regulars arriving for home-cooked meals, chatting easily with the friendly owner in an unpretentious atmosphere.

The mainstay of the menu is the generously apportioned "Mama Gohan Teishoku." Alongside a choice of main dishes such as ginger pork, meat wraps, cheese hamburger steak, or seafood gratin, the tray is brightened by several carefully prepared small side dishes, including kinpira, seasoned boiled greens, and Japanese rolled omelette. Substantial options like fried white fish paired with chunky tartar sauce ensure a satisfying spread alongside rice and miso soup. Diners seeking a lighter bite focused on seasonal sides can opt instead for the "Osozai Teishoku," which drops the main dish in favour of a wider assortment of deli fare.

For an afternoon break or a post-meal drink, selections range from standard house blend coffee, American coffee, and café au lait to nostalgic comforts like banana juice and strawberry milk. The sweet and light café offerings include toast made with bread from Asakusa's historic Pelican bakery, castella sets sourced directly from Nagasaki, and house-made madeleines.

Takeout needs are also well looked after, with the "Wakuwaku Omakase Bento" offering optional large rice servings alongside individual prepared sides and daily changing bread. Payment is strictly cash only, so it is best to have bills and coins ready before visiting.