[SAGAN] is located quite close to [Rokuharamitsu-ji Temple]. It’s situated in a quiet, peaceful area, a short distance from the bustle of the Kiyomizu district.

The interior, a renovated traditional Kyoto townhouse, features a spacious layout with table seating for 4 to 6 people in the front and a large glass-topped table at the back overlooking the greenery of the courtyard.

At the round table in the back, you can see locals chatting and laughing, which gives the impression that the place is popular not only with tourists but also with the local community.

When you take your seat, you’re handed a unique menu that looks just like a newspaper. The system lets you order and pay by scanning a QR code with your smartphone. As someone who has a hard time making decisions, I really appreciate being able to take my time and choose without rushing.

In addition to Japanese and Western-style breakfasts available all day, the menu features a wide selection of hearty lunch options, such as hamburger steaks and pasta. During café hours, the set menu featuring homemade muffins and drinks—displayed near the entrance—is reportedly very popular.

For a late lunch, I chose the “Onigiri and Kyoto Nishiri Pickles Set.” The way it was arranged on the traditional Japanese tableware conveyed the meticulous attention to detail characteristic of Kyoto.

These lightly shaped rice balls are simply seasoned with just a hint of salt on the surface. With every bite, the natural, gentle sweetness of the rice spreads across your palate.

Nishiri’s pickles, with their crisp, crunchy texture and perfectly balanced saltiness, are the perfect side dish that makes you keep reaching for more rice balls. The vegetable side dishes are seasoned in the style of namul, using only salt and sesame oil—a seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

If you stop by [SAGAN] on your way back from sightseeing in Shimizu, you’ll be able to enjoy a luxurious moment as you savor the lingering memories of your trip. Next time, I’d like to try their popular homemade muffins.