The Pokémon Cafe is the epitome of a huge global IP cashing in on its popularity. The food is overpriced, merchandise is displayed all around you, and commercials are being run on loop in the center of the cafe; however, the entire time I could not stop smiling.
We went to the Pokémon Cafe on our first day in Tokyo. You have to have reservations ahead of time, and keep in mind that the cafe is booked very quickly, so get your reservation as soon as you can!
When you arrive to the 5th floor of the Takashiyama department store, you are greeted by a large statue of Snorlax. The Pokémon Cafe is connected to the Pokémon Center DX, a large merchandise store of all things Pokémon.
The Cafe
The cafe has a very clean, wooden aesthetic with a large, shared dining table surrounded by private tables. Pokémon figures and memorabilia are displayed throughout. We went during the Halloween season, so the cafe was decorated with fall leaves, and Halloween-themed scenes.
When your reservation time comes, you are escorted to your table, where any pre-purchased merchandise will be waiting for you. All merchandise bought at the Pokémon Cafe is exclusive.
Dining Experience
All ordering at the table is done through an iPad. Conveniently, the ordering interface can be set to English; however, do not expect any of the staff to speak to you in English. The food and drinks were fine, nothing spectacular, but very kawaii (cute).
I ordered the “Hide and Seek” spaghetti carbonara which had me eating a Pikachu butt to get to the spaghetti – or as Renata pointed out, Pikachu’s worms. Renata had the Eevee teriyaki burger and the Tangela Japanese parfait.
The Chef
At the conclusion of our reserved time block, the real craziness began. Our “chef,” a lifesize Pikachu (or a person in a Pikachu costume, if you are a hater of fun) came into the cafe to the delight of all. He performed a number of jigs and allowed everyone to tap him on the hand.
Conclusion
Even though the entire experience was quite pricey, I felt it was worth it. I had an enjoyable time even though I am not the biggest Pokémon fan. I can’t help but compare the Pokémon Cafe to something like Chuck E. Cheese and think that I really missed out not having something like the Pokémon Cafe when I was growing up – perfect for kids and adults.
Pokémon Cafe – 〒103-0027 東京都中央区日本橋２丁目１１−２ 日本橋髙島屋S.C.東館 ５階