So far, 2016 is looking like a very good year for Tokyoites in need of some retail therapy: much-vaunted seaside shopping complex Marine & Walk opened in Yokohama earlier in March, Ginza's Tokyu Plaza is almost ready to welcome shoppers, and Omotesando just got this quirky retro mall. Still, perhaps the most eagerly awaited opening took place last week in Shinjuku, when inexplicably christened mega-complex Newoman welcomed its first customers.
Born out of the seemingly endless construction mess on the south side of the station, this one is a multifaceted facility housing not only shops and restaurants but also Busta Shinjuku (more creative naming), a huge bus terminal that's supposed to replace all the many and confusingly located highway bus stops around the station area. It's all still somewhat incomplete, as the entire range of shops and facilities will only be opened on April 15, but if our recent visit is anything to go by, Newoman is already aiming straight for the top among the city's foodie crowd.
The first spot to catch our eye was Blue Bottle, this being the Bay Area coffee champions' third Tokyo branch. Boasting a spacious seating area, it delights exhausted shoppers with single-origin roasts and sandwiches made with baguettes courtesy of Katane Bakery. These sandwiches are exclusive to Blue Bottle's Shinjuku outpost, so even veteran patrons have a reason to check the newbie out. For even more carb-heavy delicacies, pay a visit to nearby Le Pain de Joël Robuchon, the latest arm of the French celeb chef's culinary empire. Wine and champagne are served in the evenings, making this one perfect for post-work lounging.
Up on the third floor, you'll find Salon Bake & Tea, which stocks herbal and blend varieties from French masters Theodor – don't miss out on the Milky Oolong, a slightly sweet but refreshing mixture that's bound to help you avoid actually dropping after shopping. Last up in the first batch of worthy businesses is Kamakura's Garden House, where local craft brews and dishes made with seasonal produce from the home of the Great Buddha are poured into and plated on designer kitchenware. Like the slick pints and plates? You can pick up some for yourself next door.
Having put on such a strong showing with its initial opening, Newoman is looking to make even bigger waves on April 15, when more than a dozen more restaurants and shops will start business. Possible foodie highlights include hyped New York Italian restaurant Rosemary's, pizza joint 800 Degrees, oyster bar Wharf and artsy Singaporean dessert purveyor Janice Wong, while the shop selection features names like 'select shop' Super TML Market, clothing brands Acne and Muveil, shoe dealer Pendule Via Bus Stop and leather specialist Nogi. Credit cards at the ready...
