Coffee Base Kanondo

Japan, 604-8222 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kannondocho, 466 みやこヒル 3F
+81 75-741-8718
$$$ cafe
(178 Reviews)
Price Range ¥1–1,000

Welcome to Coffee Base Kanondo, a delightful café tucked away in the heart of Kyoto's Nakagyo Ward. This cozy spot is more than just a coffee shop; it's a haven for those who appreciate expertly brewed coffee and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located on the second floor of a small building, it may take a little effort to find—but as the reviews suggest, this hidden gem is well worth the search.

As you step inside, you're greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans and the energetic ambiance enhanced by a nostalgic playlist of 90s and 2000s hip hop. The relaxed yet exciting atmosphere makes it an ideal place to unwind, chat with friends, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude with a cup of exceptional coffee.

Coffee Base Kanondo takes pride in its specialty coffee, offering an array of options to satisfy your caffeine cravings. The Drip Coffee, starting at just JP¥400, features hand-dripped, freshly roasted beans that are selected from single origins, allowing you to choose between light and dark roasts. It's a labor of love from the dedicated barista, who skillfully extracts the complex flavors to provide a truly memorable coffee experience.

If you're in need of a warm hug in a cup, the Hot Caffe Latte is a must-try. Made with rich espresso extracted from specialty coffee beans, it's blended with creamy milk that perfectly complements the coffee's natural sweetness. Patrons rave about the aroma and the smooth texture, making each sip delightful.

But don’t just take our word for it—customer reviews speak volumes! Alex Divinsky describes it as “a true hidden gem,” praising the espresso as some of the best he’s had in Japan. Tan Vee mirrors this sentiment, noting the exceptional quality of the drip coffee and the attentive service from the moment you walk in. Grant Gonyer, an enthusiastic coffee lover, was blown away by the quality of roasts made in-house and enjoyed the unique experience of watching the coffee beans being roasted right in front of him.

While Coffee Base Kanondo may not be immediately visible from the street, it’s this very element of exclusivity that makes it special. With limited seating—just three stools in front of the counter—it embodies the intimacy of a neighborhood café where the barista knows your name and your favorite brew. Whether you choose to sip your coffee on-site or take it to go, you're guaranteed excellent quality at affordable prices.

For those who enjoy a perfect cup of coffee and value the art of brewing, Coffee Base Kanondo stands out as a must-visit in Kyoto. Whether you’re starting your day or seeking an afternoon escape, this café promises an experience that delights the senses and warms the heart.

Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

178 Reviews
Alex Divinsky

05 Oct 2025

A true hidden gem with some of the best espresso I’ve had in Japan. The iced latte was truly exceptional. Genuinely surprised there wasn’t a line out the door.

wrai ther (wraither)

13 Sep 2025

A takeaway coffee shop at the second floor of a small building. Aside from the Coffee Base banner, there is a hard time knowing where the shop is without going up the second floor. The place is just one-manned by the barista. Coffee is sourced internationally yet the price is relatively cheap. There are three stools in front of the counter while you wait, others unfortunately have to sit down in the stairs instead. As for the coffee, slightly above average mild roast.

Grant Gonyer

10 Aug 2025

An excellent selection of roasts made in house. You can literally watch them roast the beans in the back while they make your coffee. Both the pour over and the iced latte I had were phenomenal and the slick atmosphere is complemented by a nostalgic selection of 90s and 2000s hip hop playing in the background.

Tan Vee

18 Jul 2025

One of the hidden gems in Kyoto. The drip coffee is one of the best I've had in a long time. The service was exceptional from the first greeting to when we left. Very clean and cool the way they designed the interior space. Must visit!!

Ivan DG

12 Jul 2025

Good coffee takeout spot. I ordered the iced latte on a hot summer day. Refreshing but taste not so special.

Aizar Berlanga

05 Jul 2025

We just bought a coffee latte and a matcha and both were excellent, maybe it would be cool to have an indoor option because the atmosphere is good but asides of that everything is great

Astrid Dwi Cahyaningtyas

02 Jul 2025

My friend found the coffee shop by chance (while googling), it placed on the 2nd/3rd floor (we kinda afraid to enter the building, coz it looks like a residental building) haha, the space is narrow (only for 2-3 people—i guess) We all have to-go coffee and i had Hot Americano. The coffee taste is soooooo good one of my fav coffee shop in Japan *our trip is on Nov 2024 and Japan is pretty windy~~

Kasper Hansen

27 Jun 2025

Love watching people doing a craft they are passionate about. I experienced that here - and also got a great cup of coffee. At JPY 500 for a premium cup of coffee meticulously brewed while you wait is also a good deal

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