SANTA FE

Spaghetti gratin, with pasta tucked beneath a layer of browned, bubbling cheese, is the dish that draws many through the doors of SANTA FE. Tucking into the baked pasta while twirling strands of savory cheese offers pure comfort. The gratin range also includes mushroom, chicken tomato, and rich beef stew variations. Those looking for a substantial rice meal can choose from classic Japanese kissaten staples such as Santa Fe–style doria, omurice, or taco rice.

Morning hours bring breakfast sets built around thick-sliced toast, cheese toast, apple toast, or French toast, each accompanied by a salad and a beverage. For a lighter midday bite, the sandwich menu offers comforting choices like soft egg sandwiches, a loaded hash beef and vegetable combination, or assorted mixed sandwiches.

The drinks list is notably broad. In addition to the Santa Fe blend served by the pot, the counter prepares single-origin coffees brewed via tabletop siphon and iced coffee extracted with a cloth flannel drip. Guests dropping by for dessert or an afternoon pause can pair their cup with homemade cheesecake, gateau chocolat, or cream anmitsu.

Set along the covered arcade of Nakanobu and welcoming patrons from 9:00 in the morning until late evening, this neighborhood fixture works just as well for an early breakfast as it does for a quiet coffee after dinner.