CLOSED DOWN - MY THOUGHTS ON KAWAII MONSTER CAFE

**UNFORTUNATELY KAWAII MONSTER CAFE IN HARAJUKU HAS CLOSED DOWN ( FROM JAN 31, 2021)

I had to have a long, hard think about whether or not I would actually recommend Kawaii Monster Cafe as we’ve been a few times and been quite disappointed (especially the first time) but I think if you know what to expect and are ready to take it for what it is – then it’s a really funny place for photos and a laugh. My kids think it’s great and the colourful photos were so fun to show others too.
Harajuku used to have lots of people just wandering around in wacky clothing but, unfortunately, the police moved them along ( perhaps not understanding the true touristy value these colourful friends were providing? ) so this is a nice guaranteed photogenic alternative.

I don’t feel the need to go again but … if I was a Tokyo visitor for the first time… I’d definitely be interested…..

My warnings though:
1) You’ll have to wait in line (so if this is really high on your list – maybe even line up 30 mins or so before opening time?) Reservations are possible on weekdays.
2) The food is pretty gross. I’m not even talking about bad gas-station pizza kind of gross. I’m talking … imagine a 5 year old made you spaghetti and ice-cream for dinner and mixed in a bit of playdoh. It’s colourful and is screaming out for instagram rainbow heaven but it’s not going to make your tummy very happy. (I really should write them an email , shouldn’t I? Because this place has the potential to be truly awesome)
3) EXTRA Warning: they have decided to make every single guest now order at least two items. Even kids. This is not a cheap exercise.

To make the most of Kawaii Monster Cafe :
*Don’t expect to eat a meal here ( learnt the hard way!) and just choose a colourful cupcake or icecream sundae.
*At the entrance – pay extra for a booth seat – you’ll get in a cooler area and this cafe is about the whole experience so don’t skimp on that part.
*If your kids scare easily show them some photos of the “characters” you’ll meet before you go in
*Take photos of everything ( the chairs, the food, the ceiling!) and ask for photos with the wait staff – that’s part of their job.
*Make sure you take your camera with you to the restroom (it’s also a feast for the eyes)
*Ask when the next “show” is – incase you miss it.

KAWAII MONSTER CAFE
4F YM SQUARE, 4-31-10 JINGUMAE, SHIBUYA
渋谷区神宮前4-31-10 YM スクエア 4F
OPEN MONDAYS-SATURDAYS 11:30AM-4:30PM & 6PM-10:30PM
SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS 11AM-8PM
ENTRANCE IS 500YEN PER PERSON (FOOD & DRINKS NOT INCLUDED)
WEBSITE