Hanutei

Welcome to Hanutei: a hidden gem nestled in the charming alleyways of Onomichi, Hiroshima. This delightful cafe, approximately a short stroll downhill from the serene Senkoji Temple, invites you to indulge in a cozy and intimate dining experience that feels like a warm embrace.

As you approach Hanutei, the pathway lined with flagstones gently leads you through rustic wooden fences to a beautiful courtyard, instantly setting the tone for a tranquil retreat from the busyness of life. Inside, the space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate just a handful of guests, maintaining an air of exclusivity with only four tables available, ensuring a personalized experience.

The owner, a delightful elderly lady, adds to the charm of this petite cafe with her warm hospitality. Guests have expressed how she creates an inviting atmosphere—sharing stories of her friends from Europe, making every visit feel less like a meal and more like a gathering among friends.

Culinary Delights: At Hanutei, the menu may be limited, but the flavors are anything but. Indulge in the owner’s famed matcha ice cream and hot matcha, both celebrated for their rich, creamy textures that melt in your mouth. For those looking for a heartier option, the keema curry offers a unique twist with a blend of spices that warms your soul, paired beautifully with the refreshing seasonal blood orange juice sourced from Setouchi.

One standout item highly recommended by patrons is the kakigori (shaved ice), a refreshing treat perfect for warm days, highlighted for its exceptional flavor and presentation. Each dish is prepared with utmost care, emphasizing local ingredients that reflect the beauty and simplicity of the surrounding landscape.

As you sip your drink, be sure to soak in the picturesque views through ivy-framed windows, which add a touch of nature to your dining experience. On a rainy day, guests like js have described the atmosphere as soothing and calming, making it an ideal sanctuary to unwind and reflect.

After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the garden, where the owner might send you on a little mini adventure to find the restroom, a whimsical journey that emphasizes the cafe's unique charm. It's the little details, like the warm atmosphere, combined with excellent food, that make Hanutei a must-visit spot in Onomichi.

If you find yourself seeking a serene place that combines exceptional hospitality with a sense of intimacy and unique flavors, Hanutei is the cafe that will leave a lasting impression. Remember, this isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience—one that you’ll cherish and perhaps even return to time and again.