le café japonais

23 Rdpt des Arènes, 13200 Arles, France
+33 7 49 94 86 55
$$$ Cafe
(69 Reviews)
Price Range €1–10

If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Arles, make sure to carve out some time to visit le café japonais, a hidden gem nestled at 23 Rdpt des Arènes. This delightful café melds a passion for exquisite coffee and Japanese culture, creating a unique space that invites you to indulge both your senses and your soul.

While enjoying the ambiance of le café japonais, you'll be greeted by a warm and friendly atmosphere cultivated by its owner, Marina, whose inviting presence keeps guests returning for more. As you enter, you're enveloped in the rich aroma of locally roasted coffee and the sweet notes of freshly prepared wagashi, traditional Japanese confections that promise to tantalize your taste buds.

When it comes to coffee, le café japonais does not compromise on quality. Patrons rave about the expertly crafted flat whites, with some declaring them to be among the best in the region. One satisfied customer, Arthur Bénard, describes the coffee as having “soul,” showcasing the care that goes into each cup. However, it’s worth noting that the experience may vary, as highlighted by Alex Conu, who found the consistency of the flat whites to be occasionally hit or miss. Regardless, the quality speaks volumes, especially with beans sourced from respected local roaster Cafar.

Beyond the caffeine delights, the café offers a mouth-watering selection of wagashi and cakes. It's hard to resist the visual and flavorful allure of these treats, though be prepared: some items, like the yuzu cake, may not always mirror the perfection of the café's outstanding beverages, as mentioned in the reviews. Still, this delightful café does not just serve food; it serves an experience that sparks creativity and connection. With regular events including music, art, and community gatherings, there's always a reason to return, as noted by Loic Dumas.

For anyone in search of a cozy nook to enjoy a moment of tranquility, le café japonais provides the perfect escape. Joe McTaggart perfectly encapsulates the ambiance, praising not just the beautiful space but also the friendly smiles that greet you upon arrival, making it feel like a home away from home.

In conclusion, le café japonais is an invigorating stop for anyone seeking quality craft coffee, authentic Japanese treats, and a welcoming environment. Whether you are a dedicated coffee enthusiast or simply looking for a place to unwind and connect with others, this café will not disappoint. Don’t miss out on this charming spot during your visit to Arles – every cup and each cake tells a story waiting to be savored.

Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Offerings
Serves coffee
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Openings Hours

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Thursday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Saturday

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sunday

1:00 AM - 6:00 PM

69 Reviews
Alex Conu

08 Oct 2025

The quality of the coffee was inconsistent. Got two flat whites. One was good but the other one was quite bad. The yuzu cake was very dry. Still, the good flat white was probably the second best coffee I had in Arles.

Loic Dumas

08 Oct 2025

Very nice people, amazing coffee (locally roasted), wagashi and cakes. What else can you ask for? Actually yes, they regularly organise events (music, art, etc.)

Joe McTaggart

20 Aug 2025

What a nice surprise to find specialty coffee in Arles! Beautiful space and friendly smiles. Lovely :). Arigato!

Arthur Bénard

16 Aug 2025

Excellent craft coffee with soul First let’s talk about the quality of the coffees and teas. Everything that I’ve been served there comes from handpicked producers (coffee from Cafar in Arles - exceptional both in terms of quality and ethics) and is perfectly executed by Marina, the host. She is warm, friendly, and personable. The first few times I couldn’t help but go back because her hosting is so warm and brings me back to Japan where you are welcomed like a king. I came back over and over because of the constant quality of the drinks and the cakes. The cakes are simple and well executed. The place is so full of soul I could spend a day there. Going to le café japonais always feels like a treat, like a highlight. Thank you Marina-chan. Your service, warmth, dedication, and simplicity are so so appreciated

Diana Johnston Ledezma

17 Jul 2025

Amazing people, delicious wagashi, and solid vibes

Anca Tinc

15 Jul 2025

Le Café Japonais is a good option if you’re not in a rush and have the time to actually enjoy your coffee on spot. They don’t do take away and I think that’s great. They have onigiris if you’re looking for something salty. The matcha tea cake was good, but slightly on the drier side. Service is cool, the lady behind the bar was friendly and helpful. We took some chairs from indoors and placed them outside, since the weather was nice and the surroundings are beautiful (they’re next to the Amphitheater) and she was fine with that. Will stop by again. The coffee was ok.

micha Stella

04 Jul 2025

Incredible matcha cookies, great choice of tea, very friendly

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