Café Emile, located in Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture, stands out as one of Japan’s most unique themed cafés. Just a two-hour trip from central Tokyo, this retro establishment offers a playful twist for fans of both trains and Japanese café culture. The highlight of Café Emile is a German-made steam locomotive model train that delivers meals directly to each table, transporting nostalgia and excitement alongside delicious food. This makes Café Emile an ideal destination for train enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for an offbeat dining experience away from crowded theme parks.

The interior of the café is filled with charm and whimsy. Model railway tracks are elevated above the dining area, featuring a powerful steam locomotive that tirelessly circulates, bringing dishes like Napolitan pasta and hamburger steak to eager patrons. The restaurant’s playful décor includes miniature trains, cute animal figures, and retro touches evoking the warmth of a classic Japanese kissaten. Among the menu highlights are fruit sandwiches, kids’ lunch sets served on UFO plates, and the classic cream soda, all at prices consistent with affordable, traditional cafés across Japan.

Café Emile is conveniently located on Kashima Jingu Shopping Street, just a 10-minute walk from Kashima Jingu Station—accessible via JR Kashima Line and Oarai-Kashima Line—making it an easy day trip from Tokyo. The café operates year-round from 10:00 AM to around 6:00 PM, with last orders taken at 4:00 PM; payment is cash only, and parking is available for one vehicle. Families and train lovers will appreciate the mix of hands-on fun and hearty cuisine, making this spot much more than just a place to eat.

If you’re looking to broaden your culinary adventures or entertain the kids with something delightfully different, Café Emile delivers—literally and figuratively—one of the quirkiest café experiences in Japan. It is especially recommended for fans of railways, people interested in local Ibaraki attractions, or anyone in search of memorable experiences far removed from typical tourist crowds.