Osaka Cafes

Sometimes, you want more than a basic coffee when you go out — you want a unique setting and original treats. There are cute and kitsch cafés all over Japan, but Osaka has more than its fair share due to the size of the city. This gives you multiple options to choose from, all of which have something different to offer. Pokémon Cafe There are several branches of the official Pokémon Cafe, including one in Osaka. No one comes here for the food (it’s perfectly fine but nothing special) — it’s all about the setting. This includes a performance from Pikachu and exclusive merch with your meal that you can take home afterward. Since the café is hugely popular, it’s worth making a reservation about a month in advance. Alternatively, you can join the standby line to wait for your turn to enter — but it might take a while. Address: 1-7-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward (map link)
Open hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day
Web site: www.pokemon-cafe.jp/ja/cafe/ Grenier Umeda Store Although it’s located in a busy shopping area, Grenier Umeda Store has a cozy café feel with its rustic decor. The highlight, though, are the pastries. The mille-feuille is a…