I entered the restaurant and placed my order and payment first. I quickly chose mushroom curry and herb garlic pasta from the menu, and also ordered pancakes as the main dish. The curry and pasta felt like light cafe fare. However, when it came to the pancakes...hmm? The staff asked if I wanted honey on top, and I said "Yes, please!" They drizzled some honey on it, but it was just a small amount. I think it was a special aronia honey, but still...just this much? I had imagined pouring a generous amount on the pancakes and enjoying it, so it was disappointing to only have a hint of honey flavor.

We checked out a pet-friendly hotel near Lake Toya and stopped by on our way back via Lake Shikotsu and Tomakomai Port. It's conveniently located in a nice spot. The cafe has a cozy atmosphere just like in the photos, and you can feel the kindness of the owner. There are dump trucks passing by in front, but luckily the road is a bit of a distance away, so it's not too bothersome even on the terrace. The terrace is covered, so it's fine even if it rains a little. You'll need an umbrella to get from the car to the cafe though. We were treated to smoked venison, which our dog also enjoyed. Unfortunately, we were already full from the hotel breakfast, so we only had coffee, but next time, we definitely want to try the food as well.

I warmed up at the onsen in Ohtaki and got thirsty, so I went to this cafe which is quite close by. The building is long and stylish, with chairs outside as well. The Aronia juice made from the local specialty Aronia berries is refreshing and tangy, perfect for hot weather. The cheesecake topped with Aronia jelly and Aronia sauce was just the right balance of tartness and sweetness, I could easily eat two of them. I definitely want to stop by here again when I'm in the area.

Along the national highway, there is a one-story building that has been turned into a cafe and gallery. Aivalley is a collective brand that operates original embroidery products for sale, a cafe, and various workshops. On the premises, there is also a log house where you can experience dyeing activities. The cafe and gallery have a wide layout, with a small goods-selling area near the entrance and a studio corner with a piano and drum set in the back. I tried the Aronia jelly with my coffee, which had a strawberry-like flavor without much acidity. Aronia is a fruit from North America that has been cultivated in Hokkaido since around 2001. It is often processed into jam rather than eaten fresh, and it contains more anthocyanins than blueberries. The shop also uses it for dyeing textiles besides desserts. The staff mentioned that you can purchase fresh Aronia from a nearby farm. Overall, my impression of the shop is that it is run more as a hobby, with mixed results.

My mother brought me a souvenir from her trip, a small bottle containing what seemed to be red liquid. It turned out to be honey, a blend of Aronia and honey from the specialty of Ootaki, Date City. Aronia is known as the miracle fruit, rich in 12 types of vitamins, 8 types of minerals, with 2-3 times more anthocyanins than blueberries, over 10 times more carotenoids, and abundant dietary fiber. This honey has a slightly lighter texture compared to regular honey, with a refreshing Aronia flavor amidst the sweetness. It's not overly sweet, making it perfect for drizzling over yogurt or ice cream. I'm grateful for this delicious gift from my mother and I look forward to visiting the store myself. Thank you for the treat!