もみー01
After enjoying a lot at the Yasuma Izakaya in Kushiro, I went for a walk to settle my stomach. That's when I felt like going to a cafe, as if it was fate during my travels. I found this place on the map and decided to visit. In a street in Kushiro lined with closed commercial buildings, I found a charming cafe in a Showa-era style building underground. Despite it being Monday at 9:00 PM, the place was bustling with customers. The owner said, "Please sit wherever you like." After a spacious table was cleared, she said, "Feel free to take your time here." She was such a kind lady. I ordered a strawberry shake for ¥550, toast with strawberry jam for ¥300, and a large junior's chocolate parfait for ¥700. Surprisingly, the owner was the only staff working, even with so many customers. It took some time, but it was a reward to enjoy the lovely atmosphere and the timeless experience of traveling. The interior, furnishings, the walls filled with history and graffiti, and the Japanese chanson background music, everything was wonderful. The strawberry shake had a nostalgic sweetness and milkiness. The toast with generous strawberry jam was delicious. The junior's chocolate parfait, visibly handmade with care, was also very tasty. The owner even gave me a tangerine. When I asked how long she had been running the cafe, she said, "It's been almost 50 years. Before the fishing industry declined, Kushiro used to thrive with many fishermen. The empty buildings used to be lively department stores." Her words struck a chord with me, a native of a depopulated prefecture in Shikoku, and I felt like crying. This became the most memorable part of my trip. I may not be able to visit often, but I would love to come back to Kushiro. Take care of yourself and keep up the good work. Thank you for the wonderful meal!