Hello everyone. I am Tomohiro Nakamichi from Shibecha Town. I would like to introduce the charm of Shibecha Town from my perspective in the "Shibecha Weather" column. This is the fifth time I have been able to do so. Before we know it, the new year has arrived and it's already 2022. The world is still in a state of constant uncertainty due to the effects of COVID-19. The repercussions are certainly being felt here in Shibecha, with many events being canceled last year. We will continue to tighten our resolve so that 2022 can be a stepping stone to ending COVID-19. Now, in the midst of all this, the annual big event "Steam Locomotive Winter Wetlands" is now in operation in Shibecha Town. This once-a-year event was scheduled to be held again this year, just like last year. However, due to a malfunction of the steam locomotive, a diesel locomotive is currently in operation as a replacement. This time, we would like to introduce some of the restaurants that serve guests on the SL Winter Wetlands. This time we would like to introduce you to "Cafe Pocket", which is a 7-minute walk from the station. The exterior has a retro feel to it, and it's a very atmospheric shop.

The exterior of Pocket. It has the look of a retro coffee shop.

Once inside, you'll feel a sense of nostalgia as you enter the interior of this traditional coffee shop. The lights on the ceiling were made from the wheels of an old cart. There's also calm, tranquil background music playing inside the shop, making it the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a leisurely meal.

The interior of the store has a retro atmosphere. The inside is very clean and well-maintained.

As I sat down and looked around, I noticed that there were photos of steam locomotives posted everywhere. These were photos that had been entrusted to us by people who came to the shop because of steam locomotives. It really made me realize that Pocket has a history that goes hand in hand with steam locomotives. The owner, Mr. Wadayama, is very friendly and greets you with a gentle atmosphere. When you talk to him in a gentle tone, just like his appearance, you will feel like you are immersed in the world of Cafe Pocket.

The owner, Mr. Wadayama. His personality comes across in the photo.

If you look closely inside Pocket's store, you'll notice that there are message cards placed everywhere. When I asked, I was told, "When you feel down or tired, or when you just want to be healed, you can come in casually, have a fun conversation, eat delicious food, and when you leave, you'll be glad that you came here." Perhaps Mr. Wadayama's spirit of hospitality is reflected in the message cards posted everywhere. Even if you come to the store and don't talk to anyone, or even if you come alone, I think you'll feel some sense of relief when you see this message.

A message posted on the window visible from the seat

It makes me feel so warm

Wadayama developed the "SL Zangi Curry" which is only available during the SL period. The Zangi is made to look like coal, the fuel for the SL, and is given a jet black color with the addition of squid ink. Many customers come to Pocket just to try this Zangi and curry.

The zangi is also quite large. It's very filling.

Even though it contains squid ink, it doesn't have a fishy smell at all, and it goes perfectly with curry. You can also get a large portion, so even a big eater like me could be satisfied with the amount. The price is just 800 yen, which is just right for lunch. According to Wadayama, "Coal is a treat for steam locomotives. So I made a zangi that looks like coal as a treat for people too." Packed with love and ideas, this zangi curry is truly delicious. This is Cafe Pocket. In fact, we previously introduced it on the Shibecha Town Regional Revitalization Team channel. The actual video conveys the interior of the store and the atmosphere and thoughts of Mr. Wadayama better, so please take a look at that as well. (It's at the end of this article.) In addition, we also introduce restaurants around Shibecha Station other than Pocket on the same channel, so if you are planning to come to Shibecha by steam locomotive, please check them out. What did you think? Of course the Zangi curry is great, but I think the lovely atmosphere of the restaurant and Mr. Wadayama's personality add to Pocket's charm. If you've come to Shibecha by steam locomotive, why not try Pocket if you want to try some steam locomotive-themed food and make some memories? Check out their YouTube channel to see what Shibecha Town has to offer.