Tabelog ratingCafe Freundlieb Honten (カフェ フロインドリーブ 本店) offers a truly unique dining experience in Kobe, housed inside a former church that has been registered as a Tangible Cultural Property. The main draw is the 2nd-floor café, set in the old chapel with its high, vaulted ceiling and beautiful stained-glass windows, creating a serene and photogenic atmosphere.
This is a German-style bakery at its heart, and guests consistently praise the quality of its baked goods. The buttery, flaky palmiers (leaf pies) are a signature item, as are the sandwiches, which are noted for their dense, bakery-fresh bread and generous fillings. The roast beef sandwich is a particular standout, though the club sandwich is also popular. Other frequently enjoyed items include simple cheesecakes, Dutch-style krantz cake, and the small complimentary cookies served with coffee and tea.
The café's popularity is its main drawback. Expect long queues on weekends, especially between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Many of the most popular cakes and pastries sell out by early afternoon, so an early visit is recommended for the best selection. While most find the experience well worth the price, a few reviewers have found certain desserts a little too sweet or dry for their taste.
Reviewers typically spend between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999. For specific dishes, guests recently paid ¥2,750 for the roast beef sandwich, while a slice of cheesecake and an iced coffee cost a combined ¥1,562. Most agree the prices are fair for the generous portions and unforgettable setting.
- Booking: Walk-ins are welcome, but expect queues on weekends. Weekday reservations are accepted by phone up to one day in advance.
- Getting There: The café is a 10-minute walk from the South Exit of Shin-Kobe Station.
- Payment: Major credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX) and QR code payments (PayPay, Rakuten Pay, etc.) are accepted. Electronic money is not accepted.
- Seating: The café is on the 2nd floor with 80 seats; the bakery shop is on the 1st floor. An elevator is available.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Parking: Parking for 12 cars is available on-site.
- Smoking: The entire establishment is non-smoking.
