Do you love anime? Do you love Gundam, specifically? Do you like food that is dedicated to the aesthetic value of the appearance? Do you have a bit of time in Tokyo Station, but don’t want to go out just in case you do not have enough time to run back and catch the train? If any of the aforementioned applies to you, you will enjoy a nice afternoon snack at the Gundam Café located right in Tokyo Station.

 

If you do not have time to visit the larger Gundam Café in Akihabara, this location in Tokyo Station will be perfect for you as you wait for your train. At first glance, you will think that the café is simply a shop selling Gundam merchandise, but take a another look, and you will see that there are actually people seated at the tables and at the counter, munching away on a Gundam burger, and sipping one of the special Gundam-themed drinks. There is quite a bit of seating space in the café, as there is a counter that seats about six or seven people, and several high tables seating two to three at each.

 

The café itself serves fast-food burgers that have been crafted to suit the Japanese palate, so if you are looking for a less traditional burger and one with a unique twist on it, go ahead and try one of the Gundam burgers! During my visit, I tried the "Burdock Root Gundam Burger," which very much tasted like a Japanese-style burger - exactly what I was looking for. I ordered at the counter, and was given a number which was called a few minutes promptly after, indicating that my order was ready.

 

The burger I received was very light, and a good portion size. The bread was a good texture - it was not soggy from the mayonnaise, nor was it hard from being over-baked. The buns were light and fluffy, like one of the pastries from Japanese bakeries. The meat is similar to sliced roast beef, and you can taste the light pepper seasoning on the meat, which I found myself enjoying very much. Inside the burger, there was also a layer of lettuce and a slice of tomato, completing the essentials of a well-balanced burger.

 

If burgers are not really your cup of tea, you may want to try some of the other snack foods, like the "Gundam Frank" (hot dog) or one of the drinks offered. After your meal, or even before you receive your order, feel free to look around the store to pick up any souvenirs or gifts! There are also limited edition items and menu items at times, so be sure to check out what the specials are when you visit. Relax and snack for a few minutes, or order something to go, before hopping onto your train. Just make sure that you don’t enjoy yourself too much, and miss your scheduled train time!


By Cordelia Ding