epulor on the winding path

Ebisunishi, Shibuya · Tokyo · Steep Index 8.0/10

A vinyl listening bar on a quiet second floor between Ebisu and Daikanyama, with a rich hot matcha, natural wine and a seat at a curved counter.

The Steep Index

Atmosphere leads, an intimate counter room built for listening, and the matcha was a standout. Value takes the hit from prices a tad high, and solo-friendliness from a barista more focused on the records than on the guest.

• Coffee / Drink Quality: 8.8/10
• Atmosphere: 9.0/10
• Solo-Friendliness: 7.9/10
• Value: 7.0/10
• Staying Power: 7.5/10
• Overall: 8.0/10

Perfect for: reading, slow evening

Specialty: matcha

The Space

epulor on the winding path sits on the second floor of a nondescript building, away from the busy streets of Ebisu. Inside, the seats are all on a curved counter, and the room feels intimate.

The Coffee

I ordered the hot matcha from Kyoto, the midori, and it was rich and robust with well-rounded flavor, like a culinary-grade matcha. Coffee, cocktails, natural wine, desserts and sandwiches are also on the menu, and prices run a tad expensive.

Come for the records and a perfect cup of matcha.

The Vibe

This is a vinyl bar, and the mood is right for listening to good music, chilling out with friends or reading a book. It is usually quiet on weekdays and gets busy around 6pm. The barista seemed indifferent when I arrived, more focused on playing records than on asking what I wanted.

The Verdict

Come for the vinyl and the matcha, and go on a weekday before 6pm for the calmest counter. I will try the cocktails next time, and hopefully the welcome improves.

Practical information

• Address: 2-17-4 Ebisunishi, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0021, Japan (SG Daikanyama 2F)
• Price: ¥¥
• Type: listening bar

Website

@epulor_cafebar

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