Welcome to Relaxation Cafe TAO

Hello everyone, and a warm welcome to all travelers visiting Kumamoto!

This is my first time writing here.
I’m Uentsu, a writer for SaruKuma.
I’m thrilled to share local Kumamoto gems with you from now on ♡

Today, I’d love to introduce you to a charming little spot tucked away in Ozu Town, Kikuchi District, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Relaxation Cafe TAO”.

Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just a short distance from the Ozu Town Hall, the cafe shares its building with a hair salon next door.

The hair salon is on the left, and the cafe is on the right.

After parking your car, head up the stairs and…

you’re greeted by a stylish blue door — instantly Instagram-worthy!

Step inside, and you’ll find a warm, wood-toned interior with relaxed, spacious seating.

Along one wall, you’ll spot a lovely lineup of handmade crafts for sale — some of them made by the cafe staff themselves!

Must-Try Menu Picks at Relaxation Cafe TAO

The lunch menu features both weekday-only and weekend-only specials — a nice surprise for visitors who want to try something different on each visit.

The drink menu is impressively varied as well.
From the long list of lunch options, I picked the cafe’s signature dish, the “TAO Plate.”
It’s a weekday-only daily plate, and on this particular day, the main was a delicious pork ginger (shogayaki).

The accompanying small dishes were made with seasonal vegetables, and every bite had a gentle, comforting flavor that felt like home cooking.

For dessert, you can choose from three homemade options. I went with the gateau chocolat — rich, moist, and the perfect finish to a relaxed lunch.

Beyond the daily lunch, the menu also features doria (Japanese-style baked rice), curry, pancakes, and much more — perfect for a leisurely cafe afternoon.

The cafe sits along a sloping street in a quiet residential area, so keep an eye out for the signboard — that’s your landmark!

Relaxation events are also held here from time to time, making it more than just a place to eat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information is current as of the visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please verify before visiting.