Shizuoka, Japan｜キルケゴール

Firstly some context. We are an Australian couple. This is our fourth trip to Japan, for four weeks walking and exploring. We generally stay in ryokans and try to experience and understand the traditional way. But sometimes we need to break out. Embarrassingly we still speak very little Japanese and we understand less. On the fourth day of a self guided very difficult Tokaido walk after crossing several mountain passes we walked up beside Marika-gawa heading for Chojiya Restaurant as depicted in Hiroshige’s Marika. We discovered a hidden gem, just off the path, in Shizuoka - a charming independent local coffee shop owned and run by a wonderful friendly couple. It was first established as Kierkegaard coffee shop in 1980 and it’s easy to see why they have a strong and loyal local following. We enjoyed the best coffee we have ever had in Japan - full flavoured and perfectly made. And delicious fluffy pancakes with maple syrup. The quality of their offering is superb. The premises are clean and fresh, comfortable and nostalgic.

An old-fashioned coffee shop. Smoking is not allowed inside the store, but there is an ashtray near the entrance. There are several parking spaces in front of the store. If you have a large vehicle, it may be a little difficult to park during busy times. I went there for the first time since I was a student, and the restaurant and taste have remained the same. You can enjoy light meals and coffee in a calm atmosphere. Especially the stewed hamburger is delicious! Although the flavor is strong, the sauce is light and not at all bitter. I like the variety of manga in the store, and it's a wonderful store that will make you want to stay all day long.

I visited in the evening. A coffee shop with a calm, nostalgic atmosphere. It was crowded with people who seemed to be regulars. There is also a counter and 5 or 6 table seats. Ordered pizza toast, tea, and coffee. I was surprised at how thick the pizza toast was! ️ Because I ate too much lunch Can I eat it? I thought so It was so delicious that I could eat it quickly. The tea cups and iced coffee copper cups were also nice. The atmosphere is different from chain coffee shops. I was able to relax slowly. There were many menu items that interested me. I would like to visit you again.