Kintaro

Hidden away in the charming town of Kosai, Shizuoka, Kintaro offers a delightful blend of nostalgia and culinary pleasure. Nestled at 1194 Araicho Arai, this cozy café has become a beloved local spot, renowned for its rich history and tantalizing menu featuring traditional Japanese sweets and modern café dishes.

Step inside and be greeted by the warm ambiance that speaks of its storied past, dating back almost a century. Originally a street vendor selling wagashi, Kintaro now embraces a café style without losing touch with its roots. You'll find treasures like the iconic warabi mochi, which has been a staple for generations, alongside delightful café options.

From local reviews, it's clear that customers relish their experiences here. One patron reminisced about childhood visits for the famous warabi mochi, now enjoying it anew alongside a satisfying lunch of kare rice with spicy beef tendon (840 yen) or the whimsically named kimagure lunch (chicken katsu with tartar sauce), both praised for their quality and flavor. The chicken katsu is described as tender and juicy, ensuring you savor every bite.

A must-try is their kinako kuchikomi pudding served with Shizuoka tea, aligning beautifully with the café’s identity as a purveyor of traditional sweets—the smooth, delightful texture of the pudding proves irresistible, even for those who typically shy away from kinako.

Moreover, the café's atmosphere is enriched by unique memorabilia, including an old roulette used by the founder to add an element of excitement to buying warabi mochi, a delightful touch that invites curiosity and nostalgia. Imagine the cheerful laughter of children as they spun the wheel for their sweet prizes—now patrons can relive this joy as the staff occasionally shares stories and demonstrates its use.

As you enjoy your meal, you'll also appreciate Kintaro's prime location. Tucked in a narrow alley, it may feel like a hidden gem, but its reputation is thriving. One visitor suggested using the "Kintaro Cafe Parking" for easy access, ensuring you can focus on enjoying this culinary experience without the hassle of navigation.

Whether stopping by for a quick coffee or indulging in a leisurely lunch, Kintaro promises a slice of local culture served with a smile. Don’t miss your chance to visit this captivating café where every dish is a piece of history, and every bite tells a story.