[The Scent of Showa and Omelet Rice]

Nestled in Otaru City's Otamo district, “Oshokuji no Mise Kogetsu” (commonly known as Kogetsu Shokudo) is a historic eatery founded in 1971. Its façade retains the charm of the Showa era, and the nostalgic atmosphere inside makes it both a daily staple for locals and a precious spot for tourists to experience the authentic face of Otaru.

When I asked my family, who have lived near Kogetsu Shokudo since childhood, they recalled ordering takeout or stopping by after club activities to fill their bellies with the owner's delicious cooking. Locals consider Kogetsu Shokudo the quintessential old-fashioned neighborhood diner.

The charm of Kogetsu Shokudo lies above all in its home-style cooking and warm hospitality. Among its extensive menu of ramen, rice bowls, and set meals, the stir-fried noodles with thick sauce are especially popular. Generous ingredients are coated in a creamy soy sauce-based sauce, releasing waves of umami with every bite. Their fried rice is also renowned locally, offering a robust flavor that's never heavy, creating an endlessly satisfying taste.

And then there's the omelet rice, which has a quiet following. The egg isn't too firm, softly enveloping the rice. When you dig in with a spoon, the tender egg mixes with the slightly spicy ketchup rice, creating a gentle flavor. While simple in appearance, it has a comforting taste that soothes the soul. This unpretentious flavor, combined with the diner's atmosphere, creates a truly relaxing experience.

In fact, Kogetsu Shokudo is also known as a filming location for the Netflix drama “Beyond Goodbye.” Scenes where the characters converse were shot here, and the scene where they eat omelet rice likely left a strong impression on viewers. After the broadcast, orders for omelet rice probably increased. Kogetsu Shokudo seems to possess a mysterious power that naturally brings people closer together.

Inside, you'll find counter seats, tables, and raised tatami seating areas, making it easy to visit alone or with a group. With ample parking available, driving there is also convenient. Retaining its Showa-era charm while meeting modern needs, Kogetsu Shokudo remains a beloved, community-rooted establishment, cherished just as much today as it was in the past.

Why not drop by casually while touring Otaru's sights? You'll find a moment that fills both your heart and stomach, wrapped in nostalgia and warmth.

Oshokuji no Mise Kogetsu
https://maps.app.goo.gl/qyYRKaLpV13nAuX16
Otaru Showroom
https://www.shokunin.com/en/showroom/otaru.html