Best Coffee Shop Chains in Tokyo 2023

Where to get your daily coffee while in Tokyo. This is a serious topic especially if you’re here on a business trip.

Here are my recommendations based on coffee quality, convenience, price, and food options.

1. 7-Eleven (Convenience Stores)

7-Eleven has surprisingly decent coffee, and they’re affordable and open 24/7.

In Japan, convenience stores and fast food restaurants have been competing against coffee shops, and their coffee is much better than you’d expect. Many Japanese get their daily coffee at convenience stores. 7-Eleven is especially famous for having good coffee for good price.

How to buy coffee at 7-Eleven

For hot coffee/latte: order at the register. “R” is medium (regular) and “L” is large. Large is not that big, so I recommend L. Pay and they’ll give you an empty cup.
Go to the coffee machine usually located near the entrance. The machines are pretty straightforward. Place the cup in the machine and press the button of your order.
For iced coffee/latte: there are plastic cups with ice cubes labeled R latte, L coffee, etc. They’re in ice box near the register or near ice cream section. Take the cup to the register, and the rest is the same as hot beverages.

2. Doutor Coffee Shop

Doutor is a popular coffee shop you’ll see everywhere in Tokyo. Higher price point than convenience stores, but still a casual vibe. They’re convenient for grabbing coffee and a quick lunch. Sandwiches and mille crepe cake are popular.

3. McDonald’s (Fast Food)

Many fast food restaurants in Japan are putting effort in providing good coffee. McDonald’s, like 7-Eleven, is also known for having surprisingly good coffee for low price. People go to McDonald’s just to get coffee to go.

We also have different burger menus, so it might be fun to try Japan-limited burgers.

4. Starbucks

We have Starbucks. You probably know their coffee. Starbucks is the best if you prefer plant-based milk. Some coffee shops have soy milk, but other plant milk options are still rare in Japan.
Food menu is different from country to country, and sweets in Japan are pretty good. There’s usually an interesting limited flavor beverage too. Current one is Matcha and crushed almond tea latte.

5. Tully’s Coffee

Tully’s Coffee has a similar vibe and price range as Starbucks. They have wide variety of drink and food menu.

6. Caffe Veloce

Caffe Veloce has a bit of a retro feel to it. Customer base might be older. I personally wouldn’t go there just for their coffee, but some people like their food. Their sandwiches are prepared in store and are fresh. I tried Garlic shrimp sandwich and it was pretty good. Yet to try, but their coffee jelly with ice cream is popular.