In Sapporo's Shiroishi Ward, there is a joint government building that was newly established in 2016. It's a familiar place for the residents of Shiroishi Ward, housing the ward office, health center, and more. I heard that within this facility, there's a relaxing space where residents gather, so I went to check it out.

The relaxing space turned out to be a cafe on the first floor called "Genki Cafe Blanc" (hereafter referred to as Blanc). What's interesting is that it's on the same floor as the ward office.
As you can see in the photo, the cafe space is right in front of the counter for the Family Registry and Residents' Affairs Division. You don't often see a scene like this in a ward office elsewhere, which makes it quite interesting.
The system is to order at the counter and pay upfront. Blanc has an extensive menu with a wide variety of light meals, sweets, and drinks! They recommended a few items, so let me introduce them.
First are the "Shiroppi Cookies" and "Kuroppi Cookies" (160 yen each, tax included). Shiroppi, who also appeared in our top photo, is the official mascot character of Shiroishi Ward. Later, his rival Kuroppi was also created. They are quite popular, and the cookies are cute and well-loved for their crispy and light texture.
The "Shiroppi Pudding" and "Kuroppi Pudding" (260 yen each, tax included) are also big sellers. The Shiroppi Pudding has a gentle flavor with just the right firmness, while the Kuroppi Pudding is smooth with the rich flavor and aroma of sesame. Both are delicious!
Also popular are the breads baked right on the premises. Not only the dough but also the anko (sweet red bean paste) is handmade. The photo above is the "Pumpkin Anpan" (160 yen, tax included), and the photo below is the "3-Piece Bread" (160 yen, tax included). The 3-Piece Bread combines three flavors—plain, sweet potato, and sesame—into one, and there's also a menu set that includes soup.
When you're craving something a little sweet, the "Anmitsu Zen" (400 yen, tax included) is recommended. It comes with warm hojicha (roasted green tea), which is very comforting.
The "Shiroishi White Coffee" (370 yen, tax included), a cafe mocha topped with whipped cream, seems especially tempting on a cold day. On the day of our visit, a steady stream of customers came and went at Blanc. It seemed to be a place people couldn't resist stopping by after finishing their business at the ward office.

It's truly a relaxing spot for the residents of Shiroishi Ward. The fact that the joint government building is directly connected to Shiroishi Subway Station adds to its convenience, making one a little envious.

＜Genki Cafe Blanc＞
Location: Shiroishi Ward Complex 1F, next to the Family Registry and Residents' Affairs Division waiting area, 1-chome Minami 8-1, Nango-dori, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo
Phone: 011-863-5855
Official Website: http://www.cafe-blanc.jp/

＜With cooperation from＞
Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo City
Location: 1-chome Minami 8-1, Nango-dori, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Phone: 011-861-2400
Official Website: https://www.city.sapporo.jp/shiroishi/