Cozy Cafes: Toba's Best Coffee Spots

By Mio Ieda

Local in Toba

After wandering the charming streets of Toba, there’s nothing better than finding a cozy spot to rest your feet. We’ve selected three fantastic cafes where you can relax with a specialty drink or a sweet treat. Whether you're reflecting on your journey or planning your next stop, these welcoming spots are well-accustomed to hosting international visitors, ensuring a stress-free and delightful break.

MUSEA: Home-Roasted Coffee and Hearty Fare

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Toba Station, MUSEA GENERALSTORE & CAFE is a must-visit for coffee lovers. They pride themselves on home-roasted beans, offering everything from their signature original blends and caramel lattes to authentic espresso-based cappuccinos. If you’re not a coffee drinker, don’t worry—they have an extensive selection of decaf options, teas, and juices.

The food menu is equally impressive. You can tuck into a fragrant curry made with over a dozen spices, or grab a ciabatta sandwich for a quick bite. For those with a sweet tooth, the freshly baked waffles and rich specialty soft-serve ice cream are highly recommended. Tip: Almost everything is available for takeout, perfect for a stroll by the water.

You can also find branch locations at the entrance of Toba Aquarium and on the 1st floor of Kintetsu Toba Station.

Jubilee: A Taste of British and American Home Baking

For a touch of rustic charm, head to Jubilee tea & bakes. This cozy shop specializes in traditional home-style treats from the UK and USA. They serve tea from the prestigious British brand "Taylors of Harrogate," presented in generous pots so you can truly linger over your drink.

Their signature offering is the Cream Tea: authentic scones served with Rodda’s clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam. You’ll also find a rotating selection of 4 to 5 classic cakes, such as Victoria Sponge or Chocolate Caramel cake. The owner, Tamako Bray, is fluent in English and is happy to help with any questions you might have about Toba.

Note: Opening days are irregular, so please check their Official Instagram before visiting. To maintain a peaceful atmosphere, the cafe is for guests aged 13 and older, and each person is required to order at least one drink.

Toba International Hotel "The Lobby Lounge": Luxury with a View

If you want to pair your coffee with a breathtaking panoramic view of Toba Bay, The Lobby Lounge at Toba International Hotel is the place to be. Perched on the tip of a cape, this renowned resort hotel offers a sweeping view of the calm, shimmering waters from its expansive lounge windows.

The star of the show here is the Hotel-Made Cheesecake. Since the hotel opened in 1964, this moist, rich baked cheesecake has gained fans from all over the world.

With its perfect balance of sweetness and a velvety texture, it is the ultimate companion for coffee or tea.

Beyond the classic plain version, they offer Blueberry, Coffee, Ise Tea (local green tea), and a monthly seasonal flavor. Local Tip: The cheesecake is so popular that I once sent it to a friend’s child for their birthday—they were absolutely thrilled! It’s available for takeout or domestic shipping within Japan.