When I visit Hakodate, I usually indulge in fresh seafood, but this time I decided to try something different. CALIFORNIA BABY (カリフォルニアベイビー) is a cozy kissaten (Japanese-style café) with a rich history—the building was originally constructed as a post office in 1917. This café is famous for its “Cisco Rice,” a beloved dish among Hakodate locals and visitors alike. It’s truly one of Hakodate’s signature tastes!
CALIFORNIA BABY is about a 20-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station. If you’re taking the Hakodate City Tram, Suehirocho Station is the closest stop. The café is conveniently located on the same road as Hasegawa Store and Lucky Pierrot, two other must-visit spots in Hakodate.
The interior of CALIFORNIA BABY is filled with warm brown furniture and nostalgic American posters, creating the ambiance of a small-town café bar in rural California. Most tables seat four, but there’s also a round table for six—perfect for larger groups.
The café offers a selection of rice dishes, spaghetti, and lunch specials (available from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.). During lunch hours, you can enjoy one complimentary drink with your meal.
A variety of beverages are also available, from soft drinks to coffee.
Of course, I had to try the famous Cisco rice. Since I visited during lunchtime, my meal came with a drink, and I chose a classic Coke to complete the American-style vibe.
The dish features a generous portion of buttered rice topped with flavorful meat sauce and two sausages. It’s served with sides of broccoli, corn, and potato salad. Mayonnaise is provided for the broccoli, but I found it also pairs surprisingly well with the Cisco Rice.
Despite being buttered, the rice wasn’t overly oily, making it easy to enjoy. Each table is equipped with habanero sauce, which adds a spicy, ethnic twist if you like some heat.
When I visited, I noticed many older customers enjoying their meals with enthusiasm. Cisco Rice is not only delicious but also easy to eat—no wonder it’s so popular!
About
Name California Baby (カリフォルニアベイビー)
Open Lunch through dinner
Reservation Unavailable
Credit card Unavailable
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