ベルク

I have read about BERG and how it's one of few restaurants that have fought against eviction, fought for its right to be a smoking-friendly cafe. Needless to say, I don't delve into the politics, I experience what I want to experience and share that experience for my readers.

While the small shop may seem like a hole-in-the-wall type of cafe at Shinjuku Station, the cafe is actually is popular for its beer and alcohol.

But also for those who like to smoke, as the location is one of the few locations in Tokyo where smokers can find refuge.

One told me this is one of the gems of the Showa era. NOTE: BERG opened in 1990, Showa era ended on January 7, 1989, so it's technically a Heisei Era cafe but Showa Era style. But as I talked to regulars, they meant gems of Showa Era in terms of the style. Such as the ability for one to hang out and smoke like Shinjuku in the past.

While I'm a non-smoker and tend to avoid places that are smoking, I sometimes will eat at places that allow smoking, especially if the restaurant or cafe catches my interest.

And as mentioned, I was at Shinjuku Station quite early and there are a few places open.

I'm glad that I did check out BERG because it's no doubt a place that has a history with its customers. They want to serve healthy food and quality beverages, but also want to be a place where people shouldn't feel excluded if they are smokers or if they want to drink whenever they want. In a way, it's almost like a juxtaposition of ideals but whatever works. And in the case of BERG, it's obviously working with great success!

I also have to give props to BERG for their promotion of the arts and music. From showcasing photographers work and also the work of artists. That's pretty awesome!

I do feel that cafe's liker BERG are becoming a rarity and I can understand why many people eat and drink at the location. It's one of those restaurants from the past that thrive despite the change of society. In a way, it's a rebellious type of setting but it's an energy that Deputy Manager (and talented photographer) Sakokawa Naoko and Manager Ino Tomoya and staff bring to BERG and they are quite passionate about it and I like to see BERG continue what has been successful for them for nearly 30 years.

So, if you are wanting a smoking friendly cafe or a cafe that serves food and alcohol from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and happen to be at Shinjuku Station (Lumine East), definitely give BERG a try!