CAFE＆LUNCH うさぎ

CAFE＆LUNCH うさぎ is a cozy, old-style Japanese café tucked near the hot springs north of Park Avenue in Obihiro. The space is housed in a renovated traditional building, lending a calm, lived-in feeling that’s both familiar and quietly stylish. Inside, the mix of table seating and low, small-group tatami areas creates a balanced setting where visitors can either relax with friends or settle in solo with a book or a laptop.

This café is best known for its thoughtfully prepared lunch sets, particularly the うさぎ御膳 offerings that arrive loaded with seasonal sides and generous portions. Diners appreciate a variety of well-balanced dishes, from tender roast beef and moist grilled salmon to crispy tempura and gentle simmered vegetables. The rice, often a chewy multi-grain blend, and careful seasoning signal an attention to traditional home-style flavors without feeling heavy or overly salty. Portions here are hearty enough to satisfy those looking for a proper meal rather than just a light snack.

Many locals make a reservation to visit just after noon, as the place fills quickly with a mix of families, couples, and solo visitors. The staff’s friendly, attentive service stands out in the smooth flow of a busy lunch rush, contributing to a welcoming tone that encourages repeat visits. You’ll often see takeaway orders lined up alongside sit-down guests, showing that the café serves both those on the go and those settling in for a relaxed meal.

On the sweeter side, the dessert selection invites visitors to linger a little longer. Options like chocolate cake, shortcakes, and fruit parfaits offer a refreshing contrast to the savory meals. Drinks such as lunch coffee and fruity sodas complement both the meal and desserts well. Seasonal favorites like the berry parfait with its blend of real frozen berries and sherbet-like ice cream strike a nice balance that doesn’t feel too heavy after lunch.

The quiet charm inside echoes the surrounding neighborhood’s blend of residential calm and small local businesses, making it a natural stop when exploring this part of Obihiro. Parking can be a challenge due to the café’s popularity, so visiting right at opening or reserving ahead is recommended. The staff’s polite management of the waiting area, including interaction with customers outside, reflects a thoughtful approach to hospitality that grows on repeat visitors.

Whether you’re settling in for a midday meal, craving a slice of cake with coffee, or just passing through to pick up a takeaway bento, CAFE＆LUNCH うさぎ offers a quietly satisfying, authentic taste of local café culture with a gently nostalgic atmosphere.