Hello Arigato is a Japanese-inspired cafe built around one central idea – exceptional sandos served on thick, toasted milk bread. This concept is the consistent thread across its multiple locations, which are typically tucked into modern shophouses in neighborhoods like Upper Thomson and Joo Chiat. Inside, the design is minimalist and cozy, with a clean, Scandinavian feel. The spaces are grounded by concrete floors and warmed up with wooden fixtures, coffee tables, and shelves dotted with Japanese knick-knacks.
The menu is a focused take on Asian comfort food. Those sandos are the main event, with the Gyu Sando – filled with Angus beef and a sweet onion jam – being the most popular. Other staples include a Pork Katsu Sando made with 12-hour sous vide Kurobuta pork and a rich Tamago Sando that combines Japanese egg mayo with a whole ajitama egg. Beyond the sandwiches, the kitchen also puts out heartier dishes like a Mentaiko pasta with Hokkaido scallops and a popular Laksa pasta with tiger prawns. The drink list is just as considered, with specialty coffees and creative options like the Iced Dirty Matcha and Strawberry Matcha Cloud.
While the atmosphere is relaxed, it’s a popular spot, and making a reservation is a good idea, especially if you want an indoor table on a weekend. Outdoor seating is usually kept for walk-ins. You order and pay by scanning an NFC tag on the table, which keeps things moving smoothly. It’s worth knowing that some of the more in-demand dishes, like the laksa pasta, can sell out during a busy service.