鷲尾★ジロー
"Even old men want to enjoy cafes!" Shiojiro, who usually only eats ramen, suddenly became interested in cafe culture. In this second installment, I will report on the cafe "Kissaten Tsubara Tsubara" from an old man's perspective.
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Located in a small cafe that was built 99 years ago in 1924, in an old reinforced concrete building in the heart of Sapporo. Despite being in the city center, the atmosphere is somewhat quiet and calm. You can enjoy a leisurely time reading a book or writing, with the sound of the streetcar passing in the background. It's perfect for taking a break and relaxing.
● Location
Located on the 1st floor of Sansei Building, Nishi 13, Minami 1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo. It is a grey 3-story building on the corner of Minami 1-dori (Densha-dori). Look for the sign on the building that says "Kissaten, 25 steps to the right →." Follow the instructions and walk exactly 25 steps, then you will find the entrance at the end of the narrow path on the west side. A modest stand sign is the landmark. It is located midway between Nishi 15-chome Station and Chuo-ku Yakusho-mae Station of the streetcar, within a 2-3 minute walk from either station.
● Parking
No parking available. If you are driving, you will need to use a nearby coin parking.
● Business Hours
12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
● Regular Holiday
Tuesday, Wednesday (other irregular holidays)
● Shop Information
Established in 2012. Last year marked its 10th anniversary, run by a female owner (mama). The name "Tsubara Tsubara" comes from a phrase in the Manyoshu, meaning "deeply and deeply, thinking to one's heart's content." The building where the shop is located is called the "Former Yabu Shoji Building (now Sansei Building)," selected as one of Sapporo's Top 100 Hometown and Cultural Assets, and is the oldest existing reinforced concrete building in Sapporo.
● Cafe Genre
Heisei retro style
● Atmosphere
The retro atmosphere of the building is preserved in the space. The counter seats are arranged on the east, south, and west sides of the interior, with table seats on the north side. The indirect lighting creates a pleasant atmosphere of a retro cafe. There are also books related to old cafes available (quite interesting!).
● Customer Base
All ages, both men and women. It's fine for any generation to visit, but solo or groups of 2-3 people are best. It's not really a lively atmosphere for large groups. The sight of an elderly couple quietly drinking tea together was picturesque.
● Menu
Coffee, tea, cafe au lait, cocoa, black bean tea, cake sets, various light meals (Napolitan, pilaf, toast, etc.). In addition, seasonal menu items are available. The "Pudding a la mode," limited to 10 servings per day, is popular.
● Order
Iced coffee - 600 yen. Bitter and delicious!
● Hospitality
★★★★☆
A young woman managing the place alone. The casual service is nice.
● Hidden Gem Rating
★★★☆☆
It may not be a well-known place that many people are aware of. It has a hidden gem-like atmosphere in terms of its retro feel.
● Old Man's Comfort Level
★★★★☆
It's actually quite comfortable. If you're a quietly contemplative old man, you might be able to relax and spend time here. I was able to relax and unwind without worrying about my surroundings.
● Overall Impression
Among the retro cafes in Sapporo, this cafe has a modern and sophisticated atmosphere that somehow captures the ambiance of the Taisho era. It gives off a nostalgic feeling, allowing you to relax and unwind. It's the kind of place where you'd want to stop by with a paperback book on a day off. Thank you for the meal! (Visited on August 7, 2022) (Posted on January 28, 2023)