I want to heartily second Frank's comments on the Pink Cow.

The owner's name is Traci Consuelo (my spelling may be off). She used to operate a funky (much like the Pink Cow) wine bar/curryshop/clothing store (I kid you not) in Shimokitazawa. She made the clothing and accessories herself, and many of her creations are on display and for sale at the Pink Cow. If you go, make sure to have a chat with her. You'll be glad you did. She possesses that casual, confident and unassuming personality that one often finds in those born and raised in Southern California.

When I attended a friend's art exhibition at the Pink Cow in December, my wife and I enjoyed what was perhaps the most magical evening of the holiday season for us.

The buffet was a feast not only for the stomach but also for the eyes. I found myself staring at the selection and trying figure out how I was going to fit everything on my plate.

Three different kinds of curries, several varieties of baked breads,including flat breads. A cheese board. Two or three salads. Plenty of hearty vegetarian options, and much, much more.

There was also a slew of desserts that I never got to, because I was so stuffed from my three trips to the table. In fact, we both overindulged and were unable to move after eating, except order more wine and drinks from the bar.

That brings up another point. There is a full bar. On the night we were there, the bartender, who was patiently training a new recruit, was mixing excellent, stiff drinks. And the wine, which we ordered by the glass, is served in healthy portions. I watched the bartender make sure that his kohai was filling the glass to an appropriate level, not the stingy portions that one often finds in this town.

Aside from the food and drinks, perhaps the best part about Pink Cow is the relaxed and engaging atmosphere. There's nothing to stop one from getting up mid-meal and taking a stroll through the space to check out the various rooms, and the art on the walls.

However it is very difficult to find. If you exit from Harajuku's JR station at the exit closest to Meji Shrine proceed directly across the street, turn right and walk to the corner and turn left and proceed toward Meji Dori, but not for long. Take the second tiny side street on the left. This is before you come to the Harvester chicken restaurant. You'll know you're on the right street when you pass a snowboard/skateboard fashion shop on the left.
Soon you'll come to three or four steep and ancient steps. Go down them and start heading to the left. You'll feel like you're entering someone's yard, the Pink Cow is tucked back behind some trees.


TB