As you walk through the underground passage after exiting the ticket gates at Odori Subway Station, you'll often see a long line of people. At the front of that line is "Coffee and Sandwich Shop Saera" (hereafter Saera). Yes, it's an old-fashioned coffee shop, or "kissaten." Let's uncover the mystery of why a simple coffee shop has people lining up!

Saera is located in the basement of the Toshin Building, which stands to the west of the Marui Imai department store. It's a familiar sight for any Sapporo resident who has walked through the Odori underground area.

The entrance to Saera is just a short walk from here. When the shop is full, waiting customers form a line in this passageway.

The shop itself is on the B3 floor, so you'll need to go down another flight of stairs from the underground shopping arcade. Once you step inside... you're greeted by a scene straight out of a classic, old-school coffee shop! It's an incredibly comforting atmosphere.

Once you're seated and have the menu in hand, the reason for its popularity becomes clear. You'll find an unbelievable number of sandwiches! ...Actually, if you look closely, there are about 15 different fillings.

The system allows you to choose your favorite two fillings when you order, which is why the menu lists over 100 possible combinations. That said, having 15 types of fillings to begin with is quite a lot, isn't it?

The most popular combination is the "King Crab & Fruits" (990 yen, tax included). The King Crab Salad Sandwich, made with crab that is painstakingly hand-shredded every day, is the undisputed signature item. When paired with the refreshingly sweet Fruit Sandwich, it's easy to see why this duo is unbeatable!

The "Smoked Salmon & Chicken Salad" (770 yen, tax included), which combines a smoked salmon sandwich and a smoked chicken salad sandwich, is also a popular choice.

Other favorites include hearty options like the Green Onion Chashu (Braised Pork) Sandwich and the Menchi-katsu (Ground Meat Cutlet) Sandwich, unique varieties like the Curry Croquette Sandwich and the Grilled Corn Croquette Sandwich, and of course, classic sandwiches like egg, ham, and potato salad.

While the menu of over 100 sandwich combinations is fantastic, the dine-in exclusive toasted sandwiches also have an irresistible charm. We recommend the "Pastrami Beef Sandwich" (800 yen, tax included).

Don't you think all the sandwiches we've introduced are incredibly reasonable for their size and the effort that goes into them? You can add a set drink for an extra 250 yen (tax included). With its cozy atmosphere and delicious, affordable sandwiches, it's no wonder there's always a line.

Founded in 1975, Saera has been loved by the people of Sapporo for many years. No matter how times change, you can always come here to enjoy a delicious sandwich and a moment of peace. It's a legendary spot you'll definitely want to remember.