The pancakes on that visit were cold and didn’t have that fluffy texture you’d expect from a Japanese-style pancake
Rahaf Jambi
I finally tried Hokkaido, a Japanese-themed cafe in Riyadh, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a little anime corner of Japan.
The vibe is cozy, warm, and super inviting — especially if you’re an anime fan like me. The figurines, the decor, and the music all add a playful, nostalgic touch that makes you want to stay a little longer.
I went for the vanilla matcha and their classic Japanese pancakes, and they didn’t disappoint. The matcha had just the right amount of sweetness, and the pancakes were soft and fluffy — not perfect, but good enough to make me want to come back.
The service was another highlight: The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, which made the experience feel even warmer.
I also genuinely enjoyed the atmosphere. It’s a great spot to sit, relax, and just take in the details.
Not everything was perfect, though. The almond matcha I tried on a second visit was clumpy and way too bitter. The tiramisu they recommended was dry and didn’t really live up to the hype.
The pancakes on that visit were cold and didn’t have that fluffy texture you’d expect from a Japanese-style pancake.
And while I appreciate the anime figures on display, they’re not original and look used, which slightly takes away from the experience for someone who’s into collectibles.
Even with the flaws, I really like the concept of this place. It’s charming, fun, and different from your typical coffee shop. The service is what makes it stand out the most — the staff are kind and make you feel at home.
Would I come back? Yes. I’ll probably stick to the vanilla or oat matcha next time, and hopefully, the pancakes will be a little fluffier.
If you love matcha, anime, and cozy cafes, you might enjoy it too.
AloJapan.com