Willbe Lab. & Cafe

Just off the bustle of Shinjuku Station’s west exit, Willbe Lab. & Cafe offers a quiet pause over a carefully prepared drink. Its clean-lined space brings together speciality coffee and a varied drinks menu, with counter seating for a quick stop or a takeaway window for something to carry along on a walk through Nishi-Shinjuku. The cafe fits easily into the daily rhythm of this busy neighbourhood.

The coffee selection ranges from an everyday blend to light-roast single origins. Alongside a full-bodied dark-roast espresso blend, there are hand-dripped coffees such as naturally processed Ethiopian beans and the rare Geisha variety from Colombia. Classic espresso drinks and lattes sit alongside refreshing options for a thirst-quenching break, including espresso tonic and cascara soda, made with the fruit of the coffee plant.

There is plenty to choose from even when coffee is not on the agenda. Smoothies supervised by a registered dietitian include the Glow Skin series, with combinations featuring ingredients such as pumpkin, banana and avocado, as well as protein smoothies. Matcha is served freshly whisked in drinks such as matcha latte and matcha tonic. Oat milk is available as a substitution, allowing for a little customisation to suit your mood and preferences.

For something sweet with a drink, try a vegan cookie, banana bread or a parfait layered with a cookie and ice cream. These make a handy pick-me-up when you want a quick treat during a busy day.