This log cabin cafe is a hidden gem surrounded by the rich nature of Abashiri Quasi-National Park. Popular with independent foreign travelers, it offers a peaceful and relaxing time, enveloped in the sounds of birdsong and, in winter, the crackling of a wood-burning stove. The name of the cafe means "grassroots," and reflects the owner's wish for a grounded lifestyle, returning to the basics.
The couple who ran a beloved coffee shop in front of the station for 36 years relocated and reopened in 2011. The interior is a cozy space filled with the warmth of wood, with both counter and table seating.
The menu mainly features Western dishes such as pasta and omelets, prepared by the master chef who studied Western cuisine. The most popular dish, "Madonna," is an original omelet rice dish with saffron rice topped with a white sauce infused with seafood broth. The owner's wife is in charge of coffee and homemade cakes and puddings, and her rich pudding made with Hokkaido-grown pumpkins is particularly popular. The restaurant is particular about its ingredients, such as sweet Abashiri milk, and its homemade tomato sauce and other sauces contribute to its gentle and appealing flavors. With ample parking available, it's also a recommended stop for tourists visiting Abashiri.