Welcome to More Than Pickles!

Happy New Year, everyone!
This is Uentsu, a writer for Sarukuma.

Today I’m taking you to a charming little spot tucked away in the highlands of Ichinomiya-machi, Aso City, Kumamoto Prefecture —
“More Than Pickles!”
The café shares its grounds with the well-known soba noodle restaurant “Ubuan.”
What began as a humble pickle shop has blossomed over the years — first into a soba restaurant, and now into a cozy spot serving Western-style sweets and house-roasted coffee.
A “sweets shop run by a soba restaurant”? Now that’s a unique combination you won’t find every day!

Look for the bright blue door — it’s the unmistakable landmark of the shop.

Inside, an L-shaped counter invites you to watch the baristas hand-drip your coffee right before your eyes.

The menu features a curated selection of coffees and sweets, with seasonal offerings that rotate throughout the year — meaning every visit feels like a new discovery.
Here’s a peek at the day’s lineup. The crowd favorite? The Basque-style cheesecake.

Can’t decide which coffee to try? You’re in luck — they offer free tastings to help you find your favorite blend ♡
Each cup is carefully hand-dripped by the staff, one at a time, with all the love and patience you’d expect from a true specialty coffee shop.
They also sell drip coffee packs — a popular pick for travelers looking for an authentic Japanese souvenir or a thoughtful little gift to take home.

And don’t worry about waiting — there’s plenty to enjoy while your coffee is being prepared!
Take in the breathtaking Aso scenery through the large picture windows.
Or flip through the shop’s photo album, packed with stunning seasonal shots that capture the harmony between the café and Aso’s ever-changing natural beauty.

Recommended Menu at More Than Pickles!

Here’s what I picked: a Far Breton (¥300), a traditional French dessert from the Brittany region.
If you dine in, you can have it topped with fresh fruit or chocolate sauce.
I went classic and ordered mine plain.

Takeout is available too, so you can take your treats to go.
There’s nothing quite like sipping a hot coffee out on the terrace, surrounded by the crisp Aso air ♡

This place has a magical, slow-paced atmosphere where time seems to drift gently by. If you’re exploring the Aso area, be sure to add it to your itinerary ♡

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and opening hours are subject to change. Please confirm before your visit.