・Directions to il riccio

Get off at JR Himeji Station and walk about 7 minutes.

It is located on Uomachi-dori, which is accessed by turning east onto an alleyway from Otemae-dori—the street leading from the station to Himeji Castle.

・Plant-Based Cafe near Himeji Station

“il riccio” prides itself on its lunch menu and desserts, created by the knowledgeable owner, who is also a macrobiotic cooking instructor.

Macrobiotics refers to a diet based on traditional Japanese foods such as grains and vegetables. The café is meticulous about its ingredients, using only 100% plant-based materials.

Vegetables are carefully selected from organic, natural farming, and reduced-pesticide sources, while seasonings are chosen to be free of synthetic additives.

The first floor features counter and table seating. The space is filled with the warmth of wood, gently accented by greenery. Be sure to check out the custom-made chandelier adorning the ceiling.

The second floor also offers table seating. The open-concept space with its high ceilings creates a sense of openness, making both your meal and conversation feel even more enjoyable.

・A seasonal lunch with fresh vegetables

『il ricchio Monthly Set Meal』1,980 yen

The lunch menu features the “il ricchio Monthly Set Meal,” which incorporates plenty of seasonal vegetables. Based on the fundamental Japanese dining style known as “ichiju sansai” (one soup, three side dishes)—with rice as the staple—the menu is thoughtfully balanced.

The main dish on the day of our visit was a soy meat cutlet, made from soybeans processed to have a meat-like texture. The restaurant’s appeal lies in its seasonal menu, featuring dishes like “Miso Demi-Glace Hamburger Steak” in summer, “Mushroom Sauce Hamburger Steak” in fall, and “Pumpkin Buns with Minced Meat Gravy” in winter. Furthermore, the restaurant is meticulous about its ingredients and seasonings, using rice from Hyogo Prefecture and miso soup made with homemade brown rice miso.

While the ingredients are healthy, the restaurant also satisfies those “junk food cravings” by using miso and soy milk mayonnaise in its seasoning. In addition, curry and rice bowls are available for takeout without a reservation.

・Healthy sweets made without animal products

『Organic Carrot Cake』740 yen
*Spring Limited Edition

Plant-based sweets are also available seasonally. This spring, they’re featuring a rustic carrot cake made with organic carrots grated with the skin on and whole wheat flour. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of the carrots and is finished with a subtle sweetness, leaving a light aftertaste. Pair it with coffee or tea to bring out the best in each flavor.

Also, the seasonal “Pudding” (680 yen), made with uniquely Japanese ingredients like agar and kudzu for a wobbly, gelatinous texture, is perfect as a dessert after a meal.

『Organic Vegan Pancakes』1,500 yen
*Can be ordered after 3:00 p.m.

For those looking for a hearty portion, choose the “Organic Vegan Pancakes,” made with organic flour, butter, soy milk, and maple syrup. During the winter season, the maple syrup is replaced with chocolate syrup. Enjoy them with the rich aroma of butter!

『Matcha Soda』790 yen

They also offer a wide variety of drinks. The number one favorite among international tourists is the “Matcha Soda,” made with organic matcha from Uji, Kyoto. This refreshing drink harmonizes the slight bitterness and gentle sweetness of matcha with the crispness of carbonation, offering a clean, refreshing taste that soothes the fatigue of travel.

Also, be sure to check out the ‘Sencha Latte’ and ‘Hojicha Latte’ (750 yen each), made with pesticide-free tea leaves from Hyogo Prefecture!

・An organic food shop is also on-site!

On the first floor, there’s a shop that sells additive-free processed foods and natural ingredients. Many customers reportedly visit just for this.

In particular, the vegan ramen (starting at 250 yen) is a huge hit with international visitors! With a variety of flavors available—including tonkotsu, soy sauce, and curry—be sure to pick some up as a souvenir for yourself or your friends.

Why not recharge your mind and body at “il riccio,” where you can enjoy lunch, coffee, and shopping all in one place?

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