Introducing Dozo Cafe Tiger Cub

Hello, travelers!
This is “Gussan,” a Sarukuma writer.

Today I’m excited to introduce you to a hidden gem tucked away in Mifune Town, Kamimashiki District:
【Dozo Cafe Tiger Cub】.
This charming cafe just opened on October 23, 2023 — a special “Day of the Tiger” on the Japanese calendar.
I don’t usually have many reasons to visit Mifune, but when a friend from my lunch group mentioned a new cafe inside a renovated traditional Japanese house, I couldn’t resist hitting the road for a scenic drive out to Mifune.
Here it is — Tiger Cub, sitting proudly along the main road.
I’m not too familiar with the area, but I crossed the Mifune River from central Kumamoto City to find it!
The building is absolutely magnificent, with gleaming white plaster walls.
Fun fact: this structure was originally a sake brewery. The previous owner purchased it and used it as both a motorcycle shop and family residence. When the motorcycle business relocated, the current owner stepped in to lovingly transform this historic building into the traditional cafe you see today.
For parking, just follow the signs and keep heading toward the back →→→The parking lot is at the very back, marked with a green “Tiger Cub” sign.
There’s space for 6 cars.
Built in 1887 (Meiji Era Year 20)!!!!!
As a true lover of historic Japanese cafes, my heart skipped a beat ♡
There’s a beautiful Japanese concept called “onko-chishin” — learning from the past to create something new.
This place perfectly captures that spirit, with old and new blending into one stunning atmosphere.
Massive wooden beams, antique clocks, patterned vintage glass — original details from the 1800s remain throughout the building. I found myself staring in fascination at every corner.
The cozy interior offers both regular table seating and counter seats.
Right next to the tables is a traditional tatami-mat zashiki area.
On my visit, I spotted a group of moms enjoying lunch with their babies in this section.
The zashiki space is so comfortable you could easily relax there for half a day! (laugh)
The spacious tatami area is a wonderful feature for families with little ones.
Toward the back, there are table seats with a peaceful garden view — perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Tiger Cub has quickly become a popular gathering spot for local moms and friends.
The Honda Super Cub — an iconic motorcycle that many dream of riding at least once in their life.
I never learned to ride one myself, but seeing this brought back fond memories of admiring my female friends who could handle a Cub during my teenage years.
Heads up: there’s no diaper-changing station, but the restrooms are brand new and spotlessly clean.

Recommended Menu at Dozo Cafe Tiger Cub

Let me walk you through the menu at Tiger Cub.
Lunch Menu
・Hamburg Steak　¥1,280
(includes soup, salad, rice)
・Chicken Nanban ¥1,100
(includes soup, salad, rice)
・Shrimp Mayo　¥1,280
(includes soup, salad, rice)
・Omurice (omelet rice)　¥1,100
(includes soup, salad)
・Beef Garlic Rice　¥1,100
(includes soup, salad)
・Napolitan Spaghetti　¥950
(includes soup)

The drink menu features coffee, tea, cafe au lait, cream soda, and soft drinks like Coca-Cola, orange juice, and oolong tea.
Sweets Menu includes:
Basque Cheesecake　¥550
Pudding (topped with vanilla ice cream)　¥550
Shiratama (mochi balls with brown sugar syrup, kinako soybean flour, vanilla ice cream)　¥450
Vanilla Ice Cream　¥350
Chocolate Ice Cream　¥350
Banana Chocolate Parfait　¥680

Here’s a look at the dishes our group enjoyed together.
First, the soup that came with the set.
And the fresh salad that came with the set.
My friend ordered the Hamburg Steak.
You pour the savory sauce over the top — it looked plump, juicy, and absolutely delicious!
Another friend ordered the Chicken Nanban — a Kyushu specialty of crispy fried chicken with sweet-sour sauce.
(Normally it comes on a bed of vegetables, but this version was served without them due to special circumstances.)
It was generously topped with creamy tartar sauce — looked incredible!
Another friend went for the Shrimp Mayo.
The enormous shrimp standing tall on the plate had everyone gasping “Wow!” in unison.
I went with the Beef Garlic Rice.
It arrived sizzling on a hot iron plate.
The heavenly aroma of butter, garlic, and beef wafted up to greet me… ♡
Loaded with plenty of beef, it was a feast for the eyes, nose, and taste buds ♡
Reservations are accepted, so be sure to plan your visit!

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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 visiting.