-Please tell us what inspired to open your store.

I had been working at many restaurants in Tokyo since I was 18, and went to NY to study at 23.  While I was living there, I kept thinking about what aspects of New York would thrive in Japan. One day I heard from Hashimoto about the famous Harlem sandwich “Chopped Cheese” from Hajji's Deli. The flavor immediately inspired me. I asked the owner if I could intern there, and ended up learning so much from him. When I returned to Japan I decided to open this shop, not only to bring the “Chopped Cheese” sandwich to Japan, but also the vibe and atmosphere of New York.

-What is the concept of the store?

We produce the items that I was fond of in the States, using Japanese ingredients. I’m hoping that customers who travel to the U.S. will find our food as good as the originals. To enhance the culinary experience, we designed the interior to represent the eccentricity and diversity of New York.

-The brownstone stairs are very characteristic of what you see in New York. Were they made from scratch?

That's right. I found out that my friend from school in New York was actually the design manager at Kengo Kuma's office. So when I started designing the store I asked him to assist and we created these steps.

-Is there a theme behind the design?

I got inspiration from the red stairs of Times Square and I wanted to add some Harlem flavor as well, so I used brownstones. I hope the customers sit on this staircase and experience the feeling of being in New York. The floor of the store and the street outside are the same height, so there is no border. I requested that so you will feel like you are eating on the street even when you are in the shop.

-I really feel like I’m in NY now.  What is Daps specialty item?

I think our signature is the Chopped Cheese sandwich. I definitely want you to try it. I'm psyched because it was featured in New York Magazine the other day! We also recommend our chicken over rice, original BBQ sauce and cheese sauce, and Cam’ron’s “Pink Horsepower” which were provided by All Harlem. We are the only supplier in Japan.

-What was the most interesting and crazy thing that happened here so far?

A military guy from Yokosuka heard about us and stopped in to check it out. And our shop was featured on Cam’ron’s Instagram stories…It’s been less than a year since we opened so not many crazy stories yet, but everyday we enjoy ourselves lol.

-What is the neighborhood like?

There is Inokashira Park nearby and that reminds me of Central Park, and many independent shops that help give it a New York feel. We also have temples around for good vibes. You see all types of people around so I think you can visit any time of the day have a good time.

-Please give a message to customers who are thinking of visiting here for the first time.

I wouldn’t say “We brought NYC to Japan” just yet, but I want to expand out business so hopefully I can proudly say that one day!  There’s a barber shop right next door to us so you can grab a bite and get a haircut too. While you’re eating you can chill and read or watch movies and sports, etc. So I encourage you to come hang out with us!