Kissa Wa Café

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Kissa Wa Café Review: A Japanese Breakfast Spot in Highbury

Quiet Origins and Focused Mornings

Kissa Wa Café in Highbury brings a quiet Japanese sensibility to North London mornings. The space opened in 2017 to serve a deliberately restrained menu that prioritizes freshness over variety. Guests receive traditional breakfast spreads anchored by miso broth served with a poached egg alongside multigrain rice balls. This straightforward dedication to quality recently secured the venue a Local Gem honour in the 2026 Good Food Guide.

Signature Bowls and Handcrafted Drinks

The kitchen balances savoury and sweet throughout the day. Nutritious balance bowls offer a lighter alternative to heavier Japanese cooking styles, while handmade onigiri provide portable portions filled with seasonal ingredients. Drink selections shift with the calendar, featuring pressed cordials and single-origin coffee sourced from Monmouth Roasters. A slice of burnt Basque cheesecake rounds out the afternoon service with a reliably rich finish.

Minimalist Interiors and Leafy Terraces

The dining room relies on clean lines and uncluttered surfaces to create a calm environment for guests. Natural light floods the space during daytime hours, highlighting the simple material palette. When weather permits, several tables move outdoors onto a shaded strip along Corsica Street. This leafy terrace complements the Japanese dining ethos by keeping the pace unhurried.