This tiny standing bistro in Hatagaya is a local favourite, cherished for its laid-back atmosphere, affable owners, immaculate food and top-notch drink selection. With the owner hailing from Kagoshima, the restaurant proudly highlights ingredients from his home prefecture, offering diners a chance to try Kagoshima potato shochu, regional fish, and pork from a special breed that was once nearly extinct.
The interior centres around the gorgeous art piece covering the cupboard: a pine tree motif traditionally found on the backdrop of a Noh stage, hand-painted by the owner’s grandmother. Once displayed in his father’s old shop in Kagoshima, the piece now brings a personal, nostalgic charm to the space.
While the menu changes frequently depending on what’s in season, you can expect a rotating selection of osozai (side dishes) like fresh green salad with homemade dressing, carottes râpées (grated carrot salad), and pork rillettes which pair wonderfully with Kanejo’s housebaked bread. Heartier options range from piping hot karaage fried chicken to oven-baked sea bream served with mushrooms.
Early birds won’t want to miss Kitchen Kanejo’s Sunday morning breakfast, served from 8am to 10am. This wholesome morning meal features a plate filled with rice pilaf, grilled fish, bacon, and seasonal side dishes served alongside soup and Chinese tea. Keep tabs on the restaurant’s Instagram as they also hold the odd ‘bread day’, an opportunity to purchase their fresh baked bread.