Cafe Buruman — Restaurant in Hirosaki

Hirosaki is known for its apple pies. They even have a map everywhere with the places where you can find them, with the details of what type of pie it is. I chose this one with not much information more than it was close to the castle and that it didn’t seem extremely expensive (below 500 yen). Came in and I find myself transported in time into a 70’s type of cafeteria playing classical music with two friendly staff wearing fancy clothes. The pie was absolutely good, and I had a regular coffee as you must order a drink too. Strangely there were only 1 or 2 other tables occupied, so I could stay there for as long...

Gentle classical music, comfortably padded furniture and a wall of beautiful antique cups set a tone of serene sophistication upon arrival.

This is backed up by some seriously good coffee - the old man really knows his stuff. Very well brewed single origins and delicious prepared coffees. We had the apple pie and the toast with home made apple jam, both fantastic.

This is the traditional Japanese kissaten experience at its very best, enormously recommended.

Some notes - the counter seats are reserved for regulars, and there's a polite request that customers having an apple pie order at least...

Terrible, avoid!! We arrived at 4:15pm and the bar seating was completely empty of around 10 seats. We were told that we could not sit there as they are reserved for Cafe Buruman card holders. I highly doubt 10 card holders would have turned up 45 mins before closing! The hosts were very rude in the way they told us this and it felt like we were just not welcome and any excused was made to not allow us in! Having read more of the reviews about the quality of the pastries I am glad we didn’t waste our money here! Head to one of the other excellent bakeries instead and enjoy a delicious...