If you’re planning a trip to Osaka and looking for those low-key, aesthetic vibes away from the Dotonbori madness, you need to put Nakazakicho Cafe Street on your map. 📍
📍 Salon de Amano (살롱 드 아만토)
1-chōme-7-26 Nakazakinishi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0015 Japan
(530-0015 大阪府大阪市北区中崎西１丁目７−26)
Today, I’m spillin’ the tea on the most famous spot in the neighborhood:
Salon de Amanto. Is it actually worth the hype? Let’s find out.
🏮 Nakazakicho: The Hipster Heartland of Osaka
Think of Nakazakicho as the “Brooklyn” of Osaka. It’s full of renovated old houses turned into tiny workshops and hidden cafes. It feels like a time machine to 70s Japan. 🚲 If you want those vintage film-camera aesthetics, this is your place.
✨ Total Ghibli Vibes (Instagram Gold)
The second you see Salon de Amato, you’ll get why everyone calls it the “Ghibli Cafe.” The entire building is literally swallowed by green ivy. 🍃
- Pro Tip: While the inside is cool (super vintage with old books and a piano), the outdoor seating is the real winner. Sit outside, watch the locals bike past, and soak in that quiet Japanese alleyway vibe. It’s a total mood. 📸
💳 How to Order (Don’t be a confused tourist!)
The ordering system here is a bit unique, so pay attention!
- Grab a Menu: They have English and Korean menus, so no stress.
- Order & Buzzer: Go to the counter, order your drinks/food, and they’ll give you a buzzer.
- The “Pay-on-Pickup” Rule: When the buzzer goes off, you go to the counter to grab your tray and pay right then and there. Keep your Yen ready! 💴
🥤 Honest Menu Review: My 4,090 JPY Experience
We ordered an Iced Americano, Ramune, and Cheese Toast. Here’s the “no-filter” truth:
- Ramune (Japanese Soda): Honestly, you’re buying this for the aesthetic. Popping the marble is fun, and it looks amazing in photos. 🫧
- Cheese Toast: Okay, I’ll be real—it was mid. 🧀 It’s basically just toast with cheese. Don’t expect a 5-star meal.
- The Verdict: You’re paying for the “seat” and the vibes, not a gourmet experience. Total was around 4,090 JPY, which is a bit pricey for cafe food, but hey, the photos are worth it.
📌 Quick Summary for Your Visit
- Location: A short walk from Nakazakicho Station (Umeda area).
- Best for: People who love vintage aesthetics and Ghibli-core.
- Wait time: Can get busy on weekends, so try to go early!
Overall Rating: 4/5 ⭐️ (Minus 1 star for the toast, plus 10 stars for the ivy!)
🏨 Need a place to stay nearby?
Since Nakazakicho is just a short walk or one subway stop away from Umeda, I’d totally recommend staying in the Umeda area.
If you’re looking for a hotel that’s actually spacious (which is rare in Japan lol) and super stylish, you have to check out Zentis Osaka. It was honestly one of the best parts of my trip!
