About the Cafe

Hello, travelers!

I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, and I’ll admit — I can never resist sneaking bites of dinner before picking up the kids!

Today I’m excited to introduce you to a charming little spot in Matsuyamamachi, Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Chii Lavi Cafe” (Genmai Saishoku Chii Lavi Cafe).

The exterior alone is bursting with cuteness! Chii Lavi Cafe specializes in macrobiotic lunches — dishes designed to be gentle and nourishing for your body. ^^

Parking is available right in front of the cafe, plus

there’s also a gravel lot just before you reach the shop.

It’s spacious, so you can park easily without stress.

You’ll remove your shoes upon entering — a lovely traditional Japanese touch. Inside, there are table seats and two tatami-style seating areas.

High chairs are available too, making this a great spot whether you’re traveling with toddlers or older kids.

That wooden board to the left of the restroom?

It folds down into a diaper changing table! They even provide a blanket so your little one stays warm during chilly months. ♪

Even better — the water served here is purified water and hydrogen water, both gentle on the body. ♪

And how about that sweets buffet down below? It looks irresistible!

The menu even includes baby food, so families with infants can enjoy lunch together too.

Best of all, Chii Lavi Cafe uses absolutely no chemical seasonings or animal products in their cooking — perfect for health-conscious diners and vegetarians visiting Kumamoto. ^^

Recommended Menu

Here’s the menu lineup:

Chii Lavi Cafe Deluxe Lunch — 1,500 yen
(The main dish changes daily)
Kids’ Lunch — 750 yen

Beyond lunch, the cafe also hosts wellness workshops, baby massage classes, and healthy sweets lessons, so you can nourish yourself inside and out.

This time, I went for the Chii Lavi Cafe Deluxe Lunch (1,500 yen)!

The pumpkin and sweet potato side dish was so delicious that I drank up every drop of broth!

The main dish is this gorgeous cutlet — wonderfully crispy with an incredible sauce.

But here’s the surprise — it’s not meat inside, it’s nama-fu (fresh wheat gluten)! It’s juicy and meaty in texture, yet completely plant-based, so you can happily eat your fill guilt-free.

The batter is light and not oily at all — wonderfully refreshing.

And the brown rice (genmai) is absolutely fantastic.

It’s moist, soft, and beautifully plump, yet still has that signature pop and bite of brown rice — both texture and flavor are a delight.

For dessert and a drink, I tried the grain coffee — wonderfully aromatic, smooth, and easy to drink. I’d love to enjoy this every morning at home.

Don’t forget to browse the lovely lifestyle goods and souvenirs near the register before you leave! ^^

Chii Lavi Cafe is gentle on the body and welcoming to families — I highly recommend it! It’s also a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch with friends.

If you’re exploring Kumamoto, definitely add this place to your list!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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