Kijitora in the East Village
Kijitora is a Brooklyn-born Japanese cafe whose East Village outpost opened in May 2025 at 534 East 14th Street, between Avenue A and Avenue B. The name means brown tabby cat, and the cat theme runs through the branding of this small, cozy matcha-and-coffee spot.
It has built a reputation for some of the best matcha in the city, with a lineup that runs from a dirty black sesame latte to azuki and strawberry matcha, plus a self-serve bar to dial in your own sweetness. Alongside the drinks it turns out Japanese onigiri rice balls, making it a reliable stop for a quick, well-priced pick-me-up.
What to Expect
There is no happy hour at Kijitora, and no alcohol either. It is a daytime cafe that closes at 5pm on weekdays and 7pm on weekends, built around matcha lattes, coffee, tea and onigiri. The appeal is everyday affordability rather than a timed deal, with most drinks in the $3.50 to $9 range and onigiri under $4.
The Room
A small, cozy cafe with cat-themed decor and a green cat logo, set up as a grab-and-go or short-stay coffee space rather than a sit-down restaurant. A little self-serve bar lets you adjust drinks with extra syrup or sugar, and the spot is pet-friendly.
Who Kijitora Is For
| Occasion | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Matcha run | Widely praised for its matcha, it is the neighborhood go-to for a quick, high-quality cup. |
| Solo work session | A compact, casual daytime cafe that suits a solo coffee, a quick study break or remote work. |
| Takeout onigiri | Japanese rice balls under $4 make it an easy stop for a cheap, portable snack or light lunch. |
| Walking the dog | The pet-friendly counter is convenient for a walk-up matcha with a dog in tow. |
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Kijitora FAQ
Does Kijitora have a happy hour?
No. Kijitora is a daytime matcha and coffee cafe with no alcohol, so there is no happy hour. Most drinks run about $3.50 to $9.
Is Kijitora a ramen shop?
No. Despite the Japanese name, Kijitora is a matcha and coffee cafe that also serves onigiri rice balls. There are no noodles or ramen on the menu.
What is Kijitora known for?
Its matcha, often called some of the best in the city, including drinks like the dirty black sesame latte and strawberry matcha, plus Japanese onigiri.
Does it take reservations?
No. It is a walk-up counter cafe. It accepts cards and offers online ordering, and there can be a short line at peak times.
Happy hour times and deals last verified June 2026. Details can change — confirm with Kijitora before visiting for a specific deal.