by Elisabeth Lambert
When Weekender first hit the streets of Tokyo 40 years ago, it was from a small office space located in Shinjuku 1-chome. Today, the area is a deceptively quiet district that has a lot going on behind the scenes. If you look carefully, you will find a little hub of Tokyo, jam-packed full of Japanese and foreign restaurants, catering to just about all tastes. This is hardly surprising considering its proximity to Shinjuku station and various language schools. Use Exit 3 at Shinjuku-gyoenmae station on the Marunouchi subway line and head for the tree-lined Hanazono Street situated directly behind this exit. You’ll be surprised by what you will find once you scratch the surface.
Jorgey’s Spicy Dining
In the basement level of the Diamond Palace building lays this cozy Indian restaurant, offering value-for-money lunch sets and a dinner menu, including original signature dishes such as mixed Indian yakitori and pista chicken tikka. Jorgey’s Spice Dining keeps prices low throughout, with draft beer costing only ¥250 and cocktails just ¥300! Quirky note: while entrees and mains are definitely Indian, all desserts are decidedly Italian; the owner of Jorgey’s explained that this is because the styles complement each other. Whatever the reason is,
it works—and the cheap drinks help too!
B1, 1-31-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: 03-3354-0083
5ban
This men’s clothing store advertises itself as selling ‘the casual clothings and more.’ From tees, hoodies and jackets to pants, shorts and boxers, this one stop shop for the man also carries a huge range of beanies, caps and hats, as well as bags and backpacks,and of course shoes. Stocking brands such as Canterbury, Champion, Ours and Kriff Mayer, the store stands out from other men’s boutiques in Tokyo because it stocks sizes up to 2XL. Fellas, this one is well worth the trip.
1F, 1-18-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: 03-3356-2721
Pan no Uchi Mugi
Pan No Uchi Mugi (or Panmugi for short) is a small but gorgeous bakery located in the heart of Hanazono Street. With sweet aromas of delicious breads and buns wafting down the street every time the doors open and close, you can’t help but follow your nose and of course, satisfy the craving! The tiny pastry fondues and Anpanman rolls are clear favorites. Open from 8am to 8pm, the shelves are constantly being refilled, so you are guaranteed fresh and tasty snacks at all times of the day.
1F, 1-31-4 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku
Tel: 03-3353-2677
External Link:
Shinjuku Travel Guide
