Blue Sky Coffee

lovely café in the middle of the Inokashira park. a few steps away from the train station. very decent prices (latte for ¥350), my husband got a banana milkshake (¥350). unfortunately the owner didn’t want to prepare a cappuccino with my own almond milk, so I didn’t buy anything since a doppio would have been too expensive (¥500)

(⁴⁄₅ stars)
Unilocal 100 Challenge — 2015 — ⁶⁴⁄₁₀₀
Kichijoji is known for having a lot of amenities catering to both businesses, citizens and shoppers. In fact, it has been consistently voted as most desirable city in annual livability surveys. Among the highlights is Inokashira Park, with it’s famous pond and cherry blossoms. Please see the separate review for the park itself for more details — today’s review focuses on a tiny coffee «hut» located on the southeast shores of the pond.
After enjoying a short walk about a third of the way around the pond from the JR station side, you’ll come upon a small house serving some delectable treats. You might miss it if not for the lighted signboards in front right off the main path. There, hidden among the trees and shrubs is Blue Sky Coffee.
Highlights:
+ Coffee: ⁴⁄₅ (made after ordering, although not hand dripped. Espresso shots are from a machine but the beans are ground after your order is placed. The lattes are good but a straight shot or Americano are better — unless you don’t like the pure bitterness of fresh coffee)
+ Beverages: ⁴⁄₅ (juices, teas and imported beers all in limited selection)
+ Pastries/​Desserts: 3.5÷5 (pretty good; selection varies by season)
+ Service: 3.5÷5 (straight-​forward, no b.s.; slightly friendly if you are — the little bunny giving a bow of thanks when you pay is quirky but cute)
+ Value: ⁴⁄₅ (although pricing for alcoholic drinks/​desserts is slightly high, the core business is coffee, and I’ve always enjoyed a nice pick-​me-​up on a chilly day)
Summary:
You’re in the middle of the park and there is NOTHING else around except for restaurants or convenience stores. This is a great little spot for a quickie shot and warm up. Iced/​chilled drinks also available but rather untested as I always go for variations of a fresh, straight shot of java. Get your suger fix with a fresh pastry or cookie as a bonus.
Please note that the proprietor doesn’t like photographs — signs clearly saying so are posted. If you are sneaky, you might get a shot of the actual order counter but for now, the photos here will give you an idea of the location and atmosphere.