Hirakata is full of lovely places to relax and grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. There are many excellent cafes, lunch spots, coffee shops, and bakeries to choose from within walking distance of Hirakatashi Station and Osaka English House. Whether you are a coffee enthusiast, a digital nomad, or a group of friends looking for a cozy spot for coffee, freshly baked bread, or a cute lunch cafe, you will surely find it here in Hirakata.
Something to keep in mind is that coffee shops often open later in Japan than in other parts of the world (usually around 10 or 11 AM), so be sure to double-check opening hours to avoid missing out.
Cafés and coffee shops in Hirakata
Sou Sou Hirakata
Sou Sou Hirakata is a delightful lunch and coffee spot with a charming atmosphere. It can be a bit tricky to find as there isn’t a sign on the door, but look for the little house next to the stairs.
Sou Sou offers lunch sets (including vegetarian options), coffee, tea and baked goods (like vegan donuts). This is a great spot to grab a bite with a friend – Sou Sou is often full of locals doing the same! The staff are very friendly and the vibe is homey and welcoming.
If you have your heart set on eating lunch, it is advisable to arrive early – some of our volunteers arrived around 1:15 PM for lunch but they were already sold out for the day. We were still able to enjoy a coffee, hojicha (roasted green tea) latte, chocolate cake and black sesame cheesecake – all of which were delicious! They offer a small discount on cake if you order a coffee, as well as a discount on a drink or cake if you purchase a lunch set.
This cafe is also just down the stairs from the Okami Shrine, so be sure to stop by before or after your lunch.
Indigo Coffee Roasters
Indigo Coffee Roasters is a bright and stylish coffee shop that roasts and uses high-quality beans and is conveniently located only steps away from Hirakatashi Station.
If you are a coffee connoisseur, you will love this place! They offer pour-over coffee from around the world, including countries such as Brazil, El Salvador, and Ethiopia. Handcrafted espresso drinks are also available, along with some tea options like matcha lattes for those who aren’t coffee fans.
The man running this shop is friendly, and he clearly puts a lot of care into each cup of coffee.
There are several tables and they offer free wifi, so it’s just as good a place to meet a friend as it is to get some work or studying done. Prices are on the lower end of what is typical in Japan, and it is possible to pay by card. This is a true local gem!
Cocoru
Cocoru is a relaxed and inviting cafe located only a few minutes walk from Hirakatashi Station. With large windows, natural light pours into this cafe, offering a bright and pleasant atmosphere.
This cafe offers coffee, tea, and some very unique drinks, so if you are feeling a bit more adventurous, this is a great place to check out. Soy milk is available, making this spot an excellent option for dairy-free folks. In addition to drinks, they offer some sweet treats. For something a bit more substantial, curry is available.
Be aware that the menu is only in Japanese and the staff do not speak English, so bring your phone so you can use an app to translate. But don’t worry, the staff are very sweet and patient. Prices are very reasonable at this cafe, and it is possible to pay by credit card.
There is ample seating, including a loft upstairs and an outdoor area. While free wifi is available, this is the perfect place to bring a book and enjoy your coffee in a peaceful setting. They also have a library of books for customers to read, but they are only in Japanese. You can take this as a great opportunity to practice your Japanese reading skills!
They also have a selection of tea leaves for sale if you are looking to take something home!
Kaoru Coffee Roastery
Kaoru Coffee Roastery is a women-owned roastery close to Hirakata-Koen Station inside an artsy building, offering high-quality coffee beans.
They change their lineup of available coffee beans monthly, so there is always an interesting variety to choose from. Keep in mind that they are open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but only to sell coffee beans. You can enjoy a coffee in the shop Thursday through Saturday.
Seating is limited, but you can grab a seat at the bar and watch your coffee be made by the friendly staff. You can also order coffee beans via email, so be sure to visit their website to see their current offerings.
Yorkie Coffee
Yorkie Coffee is a cute and aesthetic cafe located only a couple minutes’ walk from Hirakatashi Station. They have a proper espresso machine, so the lattes here are bold and top-notch, and they have fun varieties of matcha lattes. Oat milk is also available, so this is another good choice for dairy-free options.
In addition to drinks, a small selection of baked goods is offered. The interior is colourful and there is ample seating, making this a great place to hang out and enjoy a handcrafted drink and a snack!
Favorite bakeries in Hirakata
Ihora Bakery
Ihora Bakery is a wonderful and affordable bakery in Hirakata with friendly staff. Here you will find many delicious types of bread, including baguettes, and other baked goods. Many of our OEH volunteers are from Europe, and the bread here has their stamp of approval! (yes, French stamp approval too!)
Different products are available at different times of the day, so swing by and pick up a copy of their current baking schedule to avoid missing out on your favourite items. They also offer a loyalty program where you collect stamps after making purchases until you earn a free loaf of bread. Payment by credit card is accepted here.
This bakery is an OEH favourite, so we’d say this is a must-visit when in Hirakata!
天然酵母 ひねもすぱん
天然酵母 ひねもすぱんis a wonderful vegan bakery and cafe located close to Hirakata-Koen station and the riverside park. This is the perfect spot for fresh and healthy food.
In addition to baked goods, you will find vegan meals and coffee. The interior is charming and the staff are friendly and welcoming. This is a must-visit for vegan food and snacks in Hirakata!
Chain Options
While we love to promote local businesses in Hirakata, we are including a few chain options for variety, and because some of these may be better suited for students or digital nomads. Many of these locations have promotions, low prices, ample table space, and free wifi.
Saint Marc Cafe is a great place to bring your laptop and get some work done. There is free wifi and lots of space. They have coffee, other drinks, lunch, dinner, and desserts available, so there is something for everyone. Our personal favorite is their Belgian Hot Chocolate, a must-try!
Komeda is a chain that is popular with students because of their cheap breakfast deal! Before 11am, if you buy a coffee, you get bread and an egg for free! Other food and drink options are available throughout the day. This is also a good place to bring your laptop to work or study.