Mitsuzawa Kamicho isn’t a very well-known part of Yokohama. Eateries are scarce in this area, which is why Kamicho Cafe has become the locals’ go-to place for delicious lunches and desserts. The cafe is roughly divided into two main parts–a bakery at the entrance and a cozy eat-in space connected to a small, outdoor terrace where you can eat with your pets. Given that it’s the only cafe in the area, you’ll find a large selection of both savory and sweet items to choose from. The prices are surprisingly reasonable as well (small pastries are sold for only ¥50) for an independently-owned shop.
We tried the Fried Chicken Dog (¥300) drizzled with copious amounts of ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise over the crispy chicken. It left us satisfied enough to plan on trying the Fried Shrimp Dog (¥300) and Big Burg Burger (¥450) on our next visit. The sweet pastry choices were abundant so we opted for some of the unique ones. Fried Cream Bread (¥180) was a completely new and delicious twist to the classic Japanese pastry. You can’t go wrong with the Karinto Anpan (bread filled with red bean paste mixed in with karinto, a deep-fried brown sugar snack; ¥180) or the Cinnamon Roll (¥180) loaded with cinnamon powder and infused with its spicy aroma. The Kari Kari (crunchy) Melon Pan (¥230), is not your normal melon bread, but was flat and had large sugar bits scattered all over the crust.
Kamicho Cafe opened in October of 2019, after owner Akihiro Takarada decided to pursue his lifelong dream of running a bakery. He previously worked in a totally different industry, but wanted to run a bakery, as it’s something people of all ages can enjoy. Takarada says that ever since he launched his cafe, each day has been filled with fun and joy. This sense of warmth and happiness is evident in the owner’s expression, in the comfortable space he provides, and in the smiles on his customers’ faces.