You may think that only pictures and movies can help you revisit the ’80s and ’90s era of Japan. But we’ve recently found a stunning cafe in Bangkok that’s a fun blast to the past.
Enter, Kafae Tuktheaw. This unassuming storefront that looks lifted off the streets of Japan literally transports you to a whole other city from within.
Inside, you’ll recognise the retro aesthetic of old Tokyo’s tiny bars and traditional Japanese pubs and hawkers.
The walls are filled with references of an old era through postcards, anime classics and old Japanese corporations.
We absolutely love the attention to detail for the decor, with Easter eggs referencing old-school manga characters and brands littered all over the posters and car plates. Here’s what else to expect, so buckle up if you’re joining us for the ride.
For self-proclaimed otakus born in the ’80s or ’90s, Kafae Tuktheaw will most definitely take you back to your childhood.
Hanging out at a cafe is something that we’ve all experienced. But it becomes a lot more special when you’re surrounded by cigarette vending machines, postboxes and vintage chairs. Kafae Tuktheaw places great care in replicating the atmosphere of an entire Japanese street throughout its premises.
As an ’80s kid, you might long for the days when windows had wooden panes and each table had a telephone. Fortunately, time seems to stop in this quaint hole-in-the-wall corner of the cafe.
You can even test your childhood memories by recalling familiar characters like Astroboy and Sato-chan.
Before the age of iPads, kids would put their toys in wagons and pull it to their neighbours’ house. While it might not be as common now, we’re tempted to use the wagon to get all these classic merchandise.
Automobile fans will be happy to find old models of their favourite motorbikes, cars and scooters. It’s never too late to bring back your wild side.
We’re used to ordering our toys online now. But just a few decades ago, cheap capsule vending machines were the go-to way to lay our hands on classic figurines and miniature trinkets.
Posters of Bruce Lee and the Green Hornet, Tiger Mask and Ultraman take us back to the days when we watched the television with our cousins.
The cafe’s menu consists of tea, desserts and bento meals from S$2.50 (60 Baht).
Their Sukiyaki bento has a beef donburi with tender slices of beef and onsen eggs for S$5.83 (135 Baht). While the cafe perfectly nailed the ‘80s aesthetic, we’re excited to see if they did the same with the food.
Beat the tropical heat with their refreshing Yuzu orange juice which tastes sour with a hint of sweetness for S$2.81 (65 Baht).
End your meals with these cute miniature brownie doughnuts that will bring you comfort as you remember bits and pieces of your younger years.
Kafae Tuktheaw is a 30-minute cab ride from Suvarnabhumi International Airport.
Take the airport link to Ramkhamhaeng and ride a taxi to reach your destination. The cafe is near the Thai Airways Operation Centre.
Kafae Tuktheaw
Address: 1144/17 Phatthanakan Rd, Khwaeng Suan Luang, Khet Suan Luang, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10250, Thailand
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri, 8:00am to 8:00pm, Sat to Sun, 7:30am to 8:00pm
Contact Number: +66 082 584 4073
Time travel isn’t possible yet. But this rustic cafe in Bangkok will let you visit 2 cities for the price of one. If you’re paying this place a visit, we’re sure you’ll love reliving the good old ’80s, especially if you’re an otaku at heart.
Featured image from Facebook.
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