Far off the beaten path, on a backstreet between Omotesando and Gaienmae, Nalu Cafe packs a little something for everyone into a tiny space. It's a smart cafe/art gallery that serves take-out during lunchtime, located above a groovy hair salon in the basement. You could, theoretically, pop in for a drink or a slice of cake while you're waiting for your perm to set downstairs.

The interior strives for an urban, retro-chic look. A padded black leather banquette runs along the length of one wall. Nalu's well-dressed, well-coiffed clientele sink into the wide, black loveseats and settees upholstered in green velour to sip tea in flavors like Apple Jasmine and Lemon Mint. Drawings and paintings by local artists hang neatly from metal wires, while a powerful sound system pumps out aggressively cheerful indie pop.

Lunch sets with coffee or tea start at Y850 and are served late, until 5pm. The menu consists of above-average cafe fare -- surprisingly good taco rice, inoffensive but somewhat bland curry. At night, the menu expands to include pizzas and pastas. Sweets are a big attraction here, and yogurt cheesecake and a dense gateaux brownie seem rather tempting. Most are displayed in the kitschy-cool showcase at front.

The cafe is quite narrow, so it's best for small groups. Pets are also welcome.