North Brooklyn is quickly being overtaken by Japanese artisanal shops and small businesses. And we are all better off for it. The folks behind the beloved Okonomi and Osakana (and now Okonomi Market) are continuously opening up more extensions of a growing cluster of businesses in the neighborhood. In 2022, two sister cafes opened up just a stone’s throw from each other. 

First, there was As You Like, a riff on the name “Okonomi.” Part cafe, part ceramics shop, the homey space is simply furnished in soft tones and often hosting local art on display. One wall is lined with shelves of mugs, bowls and more from local ceramicists, all for sale and great for perusing while you wait for your coffee order. They have it covered with coffees, teas, matcha, hojicha and pastries. A large communal table occupies most of the space, always adorned with a fresh bouquet of seasonal blooms. A few stools by the windows and some al fresco seats out front. It’s simple, easy to miss, tucked on a street that tends to see more car than foot traffic outside of those who live in the neighborhood but well worth a detour.