This is our review of NAMAKEMONO CAFE (Maps), visited in December 2025.
If you’re looking for a cozy café near Chitose Station in Hokkaido that serves freshly baked, chewy bagels made from 100% Hokkaido wheat, NAMAKEMONO CAFE (ナマケモノカフェ), opened in April 2021, is a must-visit. Known for its “fluffy yet firm” texture and relaxed, hammock-style atmosphere, this café has become one of Chitose’s hidden gems for bagel lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Relaxed Hammock-Inspired Café Ambience
In today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle to truly unwind. The name “Namakemono”—Japanese for “sloth”—captures the café’s philosophy: to provide a place where everyone can pause, breathe, and embrace a slower rhythm of life.
Every detail of the space reflects that spirit of calm. The first floor features a minimalist, stylish interior, while hammock seats invite guests to lean back and relax—just like a sloth basking in serenity. It’s not just a café; it’s a slow-life experience in the heart of Hokkaido.
NAMAKEMONO CAFE opens bright and early at 8:00 a.m., making it the perfect breakfast café for commuters and early risers. Inside, gentle lighting and hammock-inspired seating create a calm, slow-paced vibe. Each morning, over 15 varieties of bagels are baked fresh on rotation, and most items are available for takeout. The signature “mochi-mochi” (chewy) texture that makes every bite unforgettable.
Prosciutto & Cheese Bagel Sandwich – My Favorite
Visual appeal: The sandwich features thinly sliced Italian prosciutto layered with creamy melted cheese and fresh arugula between golden Hokkaido wheat bagels. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the appetite. It is a perfect salty-sweet balance and so addictive you can’t stop eating.
Aroma & flavor: The warm, sweet scent of wheat blends with the savory aroma of prosciutto and the milky richness of melted cheese. Balanced with just the right amount of saltiness, it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee.
Texture & satisfaction: Each bite combines crispness, chewiness, and a touch of creaminess. Priced at ¥850, this signature bagel sandwich delivers top-notch quality and great value.
French Bagel Dessert – The Instagram Star
For those with a sweet tooth, the French Bagel dessert is a must-try menu item exclusive to eat-in customers.
Visual & sensory delight: A steaming-hot, golden-brown French Bagel topped with maple syrup and melting vanilla ice cream creates a photo-worthy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Flavor profile: The contrast of the warm, buttery bagel with cold ice cream and maple’s caramel sweetness makes this dish irresistible.
Texture: Crisp on the outside, soft and pillowy inside—the perfect hot-and-cold harmony.
Coffee That Complements Every Bagel
Their original blend coffee is carefully roasted to pair perfectly with the café’s bagels. Both hot and iced versions are available, with smooth, low-acidity flavors that highlight the wheat’s natural sweetness.
Customer favorites include:
- Original Blend Coffee (Hot/Iced) – ¥500
- Café Latte – ¥500
- Dalgona Coffee (Iced Only) – ¥520
All drinks can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a bagel set (¥100 discount). Tea lovers will also find a comforting range of blends here.
Why NAMAKEMONO CAFE is a Must-Visit
The café’s secret lies in its use of 100% Hokkaido wheat, giving every bagel a distinctive crisp-chewy texture. Priced affordably at ¥850 for sandwiches, NAMAKEMONO CAFE offers a premium experience without breaking the budget.
Whether you’re a foodie exploring cafés near Chitose Station or a professional looking for a calm breakfast spot (or craving a photogenic dessert to share on social media), NAMAKEMONO CAFE is your go-to destination. With its handcrafted Hokkaido wheat bagels, cozy vibe, and expertly brewed coffee, it’s a perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. You can even reheat bagels at home to enjoy that oven-fresh texture anytime.
