Shibamata Machinoeki Fantasia, Shibamata Tokyo Japan

 

Shibamata, the neighborhood of Tora-san (Otoko Wa Tsurai Yo, movie series) is home to the dreams of Showa treasures. Almost next door to the Tora-san Museum is this cafe, Shibamata Machinoeki Fantasia. I am not 100% if my read was correct but it appeared that the cafe was not just a place to eat but a venue for local handmade goods and also a workplace for those with learning disabilities. I am not sure if that is the correct terminology. 

My server was coached by staff standing at the back counter. They did everything perfectly. Another person was being coached to fold pieces of paper into a little box, which anyone who ordered coffee got to put their empty pack of sugar and empty container of milk in. 

Perhaps riffing off the fact the Tora-san Museum is across the street but there was a sense of community, a sense of joy and a sense of charity here. All the positive meanings of sentimentality rolled up into a neighborhood cafe. In that sense, also a very Ghibli sense of being.

The curry was hot and spicy. Perfect for the semi raining afternoon I found myself in during this first journey to Shibamata. The coffee well brewed and heartwarming. Not pictured are the cookies I purchased which I was told were also baked by the students there. 

Located at: 柴又7-9-16, 山本ビル1階, 葛飾区, JP 125-0052.