
- Showa Retro Charm: Grande Coffee - A Hidden Gem in Osaka's Namba District
- Step into Showa-era Japan at Grande Coffee, a hidden retro café in Osaka's Namba area. Enjoy authentic coffee, classic menu, and nostalgic ambiance. Smoking permitted.
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In Osaka’s Nipponbashi, a district known as one of Japan’s three largest electronics streets, there’s a quiet, nostalgic spot tucked away at the northern end of Ota Road, famous for its vibrant pop culture scene filled with anime, figurines, maid cafes, and trading card shops.
This hidden gem is called “Cafe Olanda.”
Run by a couple, stepping inside this cafe is like stepping into a time machine, transporting you back 70 years.
Cafe Olanda, established in 1954, is a long-standing cafe cherished for its commitment to quality coffee. The warmth of the couple who runs the cafe is evident in every detail, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
Nipponbashi Ota Road North End
Cafe Olanda’s concept is simple: “Let’s grab a quick coffee.” As such, the menu focuses on light meals only.
The concept is strictly maintained, with no shared seating. The cafe, not very spacious, mainly features four-person tables, ensuring that whether you’re alone or with others, you can enjoy your time without interruption.
It’s a place where you can drop in for a quick break and relax. This thoughtful approach reflects the warm personalities of the couple who run the cafe.
The interior of Cafe Olanda exudes a nostalgic, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of the Showa era. The wood-paneled walls envelop the space, with soft lighting creating a comfortable ambiance.
The contrast between the dark wood furniture and red cushioned seats enhances the classic feel, making the setting even more charming.
Menus and articles from past features decorate the walls. The parquet flooring adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making the overall space feel inviting.
When visiting Cafe Olanda, be sure to try the house blend coffee. The owner, who was rigorously trained by his father, the original proprietor, showcases his expertise in every cup.
The coffee is mild with little bitterness, yet it has a rich depth of flavor that speaks to the careful craftsmanship behind it.
Roasting and blending are done in-house, ensuring that every cup is made with meticulous care. The unique taste of the blend is a testament to the skill and sensibility that go into its creation.
Though limited in quantity, the cafe also offers a morning service, which includes a mini sandwich and fruit, all for the price of just your drink.
Cafe Olanda’s menu offers a wide variety of coffee options, featuring high-quality beans typical of classic cafes, including Blue Mountain, Kilimanjaro, and Colombian coffee.
The selection of soft drinks is also extensive, including the Osaka specialty “Mix Juice.” As mentioned earlier, only light meals are available.
Item | Price |
---|---|
House Blend Coffee | ¥400 |
Blue Mountain No.1 | ¥1,500 |
Mocha Mattari | ¥650 |
Kilimanjaro | ¥650 |
Colombian | ¥650 |
Brazil Santos | ¥650 |
Espresso | ¥450 |
Cappuccino | ¥450 |
Coffee Float | ¥500 |
Cafe Au Lait | ¥450 |
Cafe Congelato | ¥600 |
Item | Price |
---|---|
Lemon Tea | ¥400 |
Milk Tea | ¥400 |
Jasmine Tea | ¥450 |
Cinnamon Tea | ¥450 |
Item | Price |
---|---|
Milk (Hot/Iced) | ¥400 |
Calpis | ¥400 |
Coke | ¥400 |
Soda Water | ¥400 |
Cream Soda | ¥500 |
Calpis Cola | ¥450 |
Lemon Squash | ¥450 |
Cocoa (Hot/Iced) | ¥500 |
Matcha Au Lait (Hot/Iced) | ¥450 |
Yuzu Tea | ¥450 |
Ice Cream | ¥450 |
Mix Juice | ¥500 |
Banana Juice | ¥500 |
Orange Juice | ¥500 |
Strawberry Juice | ¥500 |
Tomato Juice | ¥500 |
Item | Price |
---|---|
Mixed Sandwich | ¥600 |
Egg Sandwich | ¥600 |
Ham Sandwich | ¥600 |
Toast | ¥350 |
Cafe Olanda quietly continues to mark time, just a step away from the hustle and bustle of Nipponbashi, Osaka. Since its establishment in 1954, the cafe has preserved its taste and atmosphere, beloved by locals for decades.
In the peaceful interior filled with the aroma of carefully brewed coffee, time seems to flow more slowly. It offers a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of Ota Road, providing a serene space where you can forget the busyness of daily life.
With the warm hospitality of the couple and their carefully roasted coffee crafted over 70 years, you can spend a relaxing time in this nostalgic space.
Here, in this Showa retro atmosphere, why not enjoy a cup of their exquisite house blend coffee?
At Cafe Olanda, rediscover the “relaxation” you may have forgotten.