Cafe Independants, Kyoto

Retro vibes and tasty bites in central Kyoto

By Charlotte Griffiths

Community writer

Fresh and delicious BLTs are available every day

Mosaic stairs guide you down to the cafe

Distressed posters and exposed walls equal effortless cool

Light bulb terrariums both illuminate the cafe room and bring nature inside

Plush sofas in the back room, available for party bookings

What wash room doesn't benefit from an artfully placed barrel?

Check the posters for upcoming events in Kyoto

The art deco building contrasts with Kyoto's more traditional architecture

Nothing says rustic-cool quite like exposed brickwork, mosaic tiling and wooden tables in the basement of a 1920s building, but it's not something you expect to find in Kyoto.

Cafe Independants is a short walk from Kawaramachi station and just off the main shopping arcade. It is the perfect place to escape Kyoto's busy streets for lunch or evening drinks.

Now Art Complex 1928, the building began life as the regional office for Osaka's Mainichi Shimbun newspaper. Its Art-Deco inspired architecture has led it to be designated a Tangible Cultural Property. Be sure to admire the star-shaped balcony before you head downstairs for a bite. After eating, explore the other cafes and boutiques, or even take in a performance of GEAR - the non-verbal spectacle on the top floor.

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By Charlotte Griffiths

Community writer

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Bonson Lam 3 years ago

You had me with your words, "nothing says rustic-cool quite like exposed brickwork, mosaic tiling and wooden tables in the basement of a 1920s building."

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