Island Veggie, Hiroo

The acai berry craze that's sweeping the world has also hit Japan in a big way, with many smoothie joints and juice bars popping up around town. The Island Veggie cafe just off Hiroo's shopping street is just one of the many places in Tokyo where you can get your superfood fix.

A kind of a Hawaiian, surf-inspired vibe greets visitors as they enter, with surf boards and distressed wood giving the cafe a very homey feel. Not least because of its location, it is very popular with the local foreign community as a place to catch up with friends or enjoy an afternoon snack.

The cafe has a small food menu with some standouts including the homemade peanut butter and banana sandwich (¥500) and a Cobb salad (¥500). Caffeine-free coffee and teas are also available, but the reality is that most people come for the acai bowls and smoothies.

The breakfast bowls are particularly popular, with options including berry, coconut mango, chocolate mango, matcha and the Rio bowl (with banana and granola). I personally do not usually like acai, but I tried the bestselling acai and banana smoothie and it was surprisingly good and very filling, so if you are dieting right now this would be a perfect afternoon snack.

As to whether acai berries are actually a catalyst for weight loss, youthful skin and illness prevention, the jury is out…but I say if it tastes good and it’s good for you then just go with it!

The Deets

Address: 5-3-9 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Tel: 03-6277-0962

Open: Daily, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.