Saltomortale

Located in the countryside of Kishiwada, South Osaka in a small town called Yamadai Nakamachi is this lovely kominka cafe called “ Saltomortale ”.

The cafe opened on 13 December 2018 and is run by a friendly young couple. The café’s name, Saltomortale, originates from the Italian word “saltomortale,” which translates to ‘deadly jump’ or ‘fateful decision.’ However, in Japanese, it’s a playful twist on the word “Saru,” which means ‘monkey.’

Saltomortale is situated along a busy road and is geared to cyclists with special bicycle parking in front of the cafe. Of course people can also visit by bus or by car, and for those who come by car, the cafe offers parking space for up to three cars. The nearest station (yet still at least 50 minutes on foot) is Nankai Line (Semboku Rapid Railway) Izumi-Chuo station, from the station you will have to take the bus to Yamadai Nakamachi Busstop with the bus that goes to Aisailand.

The cafe sits in a 70 year old renovated kominka which used to be an akiya before it was taken over by the owners. At the entrance there are two doors, the wooden sliding door one on the left leads to the order-counter and a small shop area and the glass door one on the right with a lovely portafilter as a doorhandle, leading to the seating area. The interior is quite spacious, featuring a retro Japanese-style design. The raised floor is adorned with low tables and zabuton cushions, requiring customers to remove their shoes before being seated. Adjacent to the café’s entrance, you’ll find bench seats where taking of your shoes isn’t necessary. Large windows provide a view of the outside while patrons enjoy their drinks. Additionally, for those seeking a more intimate atmosphere, the café offers a private room towards the back.

The menu at Saltomortale boasts an extensive selection of beverages, featuring espresso-based options like americano, cafe latte, cappuccino, ice foam macchiato, honey milk latte, and caramel macchiato, as well as drip coffee. Non-coffee enthusiasts can indulge in matcha latte, cocoa latte, rich milk tea, earl grey tea, and a variety of juices. The food menu offers diverse array of options to suit different times of the day. The morning menu, available from 09:00 to 11:00, includes a half toast, a small salad, and a drink, all for just 500 yen. During lunchtime (from 11:00 to 14:00), customers can choose from a curry plate or an arranged toast plate, complete with a toast, mini salad, potato salad, brownie, and a beverage of your choice. For the toast menu, Saltomortale presents a tempting selection with options like (cheese, honey, and walnut), croque monsieur; apple custard cream, and more, catering to a variety of taste preferences. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the café’s dessert menu is sure to delight. It features delicious offerings such as warabimochi parfait, seasonal parfait, muffins, and affogato.

Saltomortale, is a lovely retro kominka cafe run by a friendly young couple that offers a relaxing atmosphere and an extensive menu, making it a must-visit destination.