A Cafe with Retro Vibes in Downtown
Published: January 29, 2025
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Spicafe” is a place where you can enjoy Motsuni (simmered pork intestines) and drinks from morning onwards.
In the morning, Spicafe offers a satisfying breakfast menu. In the evening, there is a “Happy Hour” from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, during which all alcoholic drinks are 100 yen off, with no limit on the number of drinks.
This cafe is not your typical trendy spot. It has a calm and cozy charm. It sits on a lively downtown street, but offers a quiet escape from the noise. With just a few tables, it is a nice place to take a short and relaxing break. Stepping inside the retro atmosphere brings back the feel of the 1970s and 80s.
Soft Japanese pop music plays in the background, adding to the warm mood. People often stop by during their daily errands, so having a meal here feels like a real and welcoming local experience.
The owner was formerly a chef specializing in traditional Japanese cuisine.
A sweet older couple runs Spicafe. It started as a simple cafe, but it’s a good thing they eventually decided to expand and serve full meals, like burgers, curry, and soups. It really would’ve been a shame to miss out on this couple’s cooking. The owner’s recipes have a heartwarming, homemade quality that stays with you. I was genuinely happy to have the chance to taste their food. By the way, the menu has lots of pages! They offer a lot of dishes to choose from.
The most popular dish is the Motsuni Set, which comes with a beer for 1,000 yen
This soup has a comforting homemade taste. It is full of vegetables, warm, and satisfying. A perfect choice when you are feeling a little under the weather. It may not be the first thing you think of on a hot summer day, but on a cloudy or rainy day, it is just right. Enjoying it with a cold beer at lunchtime makes it even better.
The second most popular dish is the “pizza toast”
This dish is an excellent example of East and West coming together.
It combines familiar European and American ingredients—cheese, tomato, bread, and ham—with the nostalgic charm of a classic Japanese cafe menu, featuring thick-cut toast. I really enjoyed this kind of fusion. The set comes with a small side salad, adding a light and refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty main dish.
The third most popular dish is the “curry rice”
I would say the classic Japanese curry rice is a must in every retro Japanese cafe. This one had a mild kick of spice, just enough to warm things up without overpowering the flavor. It tasted just like homemade food: comforting and made with care. This set also came with a small side salad with a boiled egg.
“Gyu-suji nikomi” (simmered beef tendon) is their signature dish
The soup had a rich flavor, and it felt like a slow-cooked warm stew. The meat was very tender, and the broth had a slight sweetness from the carrots and daikon radish that balanced everything out. It felt wholesome and prepared with care.
A summer-only dish is the “Coffee Jelly Latte,” available for 700 yen
It was my first time having jelly with coffee, and it reminded me a bit of bubble tea, but with a lot more volume. The texture was fun, the flavor was excellent, and it gave an engaging twist to a classic iced coffee. Perfect for a quick stop while shopping in the area, especially in Japan’s summer heat.
At “Spicafe,” most of the items on the menu are also available for takeout.
If you’re in the area, be sure to stop by. And if you’re in a hurry, no worries.
You can take something to go and enjoy the handmade flavors at home.
If you’re getting drinks to take out, please note that some nearby shops do not permit outside beverages.
Whether you stay or take out, enjoy the retro cafe vibe and the comforting taste of homemade Japanese food.
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Diana
・Nationality：Spain
・Hobbies：Dancing, Bon Odori, DIY, and Crafts
※Information is based on May 2025. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
