Usagitoboku

“Usagitoboku” , meaning ‘Rabbit and I,’ is a charming café nestled in Osaka’s Showacho area. Set within a Nagaya building with a storied past, this establishment once housed a laundry shop dating back to 1930 (Showa 5). As you step inside, remnants of its historical roots unfold—enamel signboards and washboards, nostalgic relics discovered during renovation work, adding a unique charm to the ambiance. The rich history behind the café extends further. The six-row houses, part of this historical complex, were gifted to the previous owner by their parents upon their birth in 1933 (Showa 8), all for a modest sum of 2,600 yen.

This quaint spot took on a new life in October 2011 when a retired couple, formerly working at a facility for disabled people, decided to transform this nagaya into a cozy coffee haven. Their dedication to home-roasted coffee in this transformed laundry space exudes warmth and invites visitors to share in this delightful blend of history and hospitality. The couple designed all the original branding and packaging themselves.

Usagitoboku boasts a retro aesthetic, with both its exterior and interior adorned in rich dark hardwood. Upon entry, to the left, you’ll discover a cozy seating area featuring two four-seater tables and on the right a shelf showcasing various goods for sale, from gift sets to cookies and general merchandise. Nestled in the corner is a roasting machine adding to the charm. Venturing further inside, the kitchen area on the left offers a long counter for seating, while the right side hosts a snug private booth accommodating up to four guests. Towards the rear, through glass sliding doors, a secluded room awaits, providing a more private setting. Furnished with a sofa seat, a table, and additional comfortable chairs, it offers a quiet retreat. Throughout the space, an array of antique decor and an impressive collection of rabbit ornaments adorn the walls, giving this café a uniquely charming character.

At Usagitoboku, customers can conveniently view and order items using a QR code system. The menu features a morning set (09:00 – 11:00) offering options like butter toast, honey toast, four types of cheese toast, and hot dog sets. For lunch (from 11:00 onwards), enjoy offerings such as curry, gratin toast, chili cheese toast, hotdog, or cheese dog sets, as well as various cakes (chiffon cake, gateau chocolat, cheese cake and more). Yet, the true standout here is their exceptional coffee, beautifully presented with lovely latte art. The owners’ creative flair shines through their latte art, showcasing seasonal influences—like the delightful Christmas-themed designs shared in this article. Beyond coffee, the café offers an array of soft drinks, including chai, fruit milk, cocoa, and more.

Usagitoboku is a hidden gem in Osaka, run by a friendly couple, situated in a cozy retro cafe with a long history where customers can enjoy delicious food and drinks and a visit is heavily recommended.