Start your day with delicious pancakes in a cozy atmosphere.

From whole wheat meal pancakes to fluffy soufflé pancakes, Dolf. offers a variety of unique menu items that bring a touch of urban style to the countryside.

Today, we’ll introduce the charm of Dolf., a pancake specialty shop located in Naka-Dote-machi, Hirosaki!

A Place to Start Your Day

"We want our shop to be a place where people start their day." "We hope that customers enjoy breakfast at Dolf., then explore Dote-machi." "Our goal is to contribute to the revitalization of Dote-machi."

With this vision in mind, owners Yoshihide Oyu and Fuga Takaya opened their pancake shop.

Opened in 2023 – A Trending Pancake Specialty Shop

Located on the first floor of the building that houses the Blue Eight café, Dolf. officially opened in December 2023.

The name Dolf. is derived from the German word "dorf", meaning "village" or "countryside."

The store’s exterior features large glass windows, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes it easy for passersby to stop in.

Even the logo has a hidden surprise! The “D” in Dolf.” is designed to resemble a pancake with butter and maple syrup, but upon closer inspection, the syrup is actually shaped like a snake. Try to spot the hidden detail on your visit!

Start Your Day Right with a Healthy Morning Menu

Signature Meal Pancake (¥980 including tax)

The idea to open a pancake shop in Hirosaki came from the owners’ first encounter with meal pancakes in Kanto. They were so inspired that they developed their own recipe, refining it to be even more delicious. Here are three key points that make their meal pancakes special:

1. Made with Whole Wheat Flour
   • Whole wheat flour is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
   • Compared to regular pancakes, it has a heartier texture and provides a satisfying feeling of fullness.
2. Topped with Carefully Selected Ingredients
   • Toppings include scrambled eggs, bacon, and “Ishikawa Sausage.”
   • Ishikawa Sausage is made by Ishikawa Ham, a local company famous for Ishikawa Wiener, a beloved Hirosaki soul food.
   • The sausage’s unique herbal flavor enhances the pancake’s taste, creating a truly special dish.
3. A Rare Find in Hirosaki
   • Most people associate pancakes with sweet flavors, but Dolf. offers a more balanced, savory option.
   • The lightly salted pancake, combined with meat, eggs, and maple syrup, creates an irresistible mix of flavors.
   • In Aomori, meal pancakes are still a rare treat—making them a must-try item at Dolf.!

Most Popular Item: Soufflé Pancakes

Classic “Dolf. Pancake” (¥1,200 including tax)

A fluffy soufflé pancake topped with a perfectly balanced blend of fresh cream.

Many people experience indigestion or heartburn from overly sweet desserts. To avoid this, Dolf. focuses on moderate sweetness, ensuring customers leave feeling satisfied and eager to return.

Enjoy the perfectly balanced flavor of these soufflé pancakes—crafted with care and passion.

Seasonal Special: Apple Cinnamon Pancake (¥1,680 including tax)

A seasonal delight featuring:

• A fluffy soufflé base
• Cinnamon-cooked Aomori apples
• Earl Grey-infused fresh cream

Apples are a globally popular fruit, and Dolf. takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients.

The owners plan to continue incorporating seasonal apple varieties into their menu. Stay updated by following their Instagram for new releases!

Monthly Limited-Edition Pancakes

Dolf. introduces new seasonal pancakes every month, themed around fruits, seasonal ingredients, or special events.

The concept behind these pancakes is "a luxurious treat once a month."

• Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or a personal reward.
• Designed to keep repeat customers excited with constantly evolving flavors.
• Previous limited-edition flavors included crème brûlée, two types of chocolate, strawberry daifuku, and tiramisu.
• Upcoming Special (from June 17th): Frozen Melon Ball Pancake (¥1,780 including tax).

Celebrate with a Special Pancake Plate!

For special occasions, Dolf. offers customizable pancake plates with:

• Personalized messages
• Cake sparklers for celebrations
• Optional music customization

The combination of stylish pancake plates and the casual interior makes for an Instagram-worthy experience!

New Morning Menu: Blueberry Bowl

A new morning-exclusive menu item is now available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

The Blueberry Bowl is a refreshing option packed with:

• Blueberries
• Yogurt
• Granola
• Assorted fruits

It’s perfect for those who prefer a light breakfast, especially during the warmer months.

The Story Behind Dolf.’s Opening

Owners Oyu and Takaya were middle school classmates from Hirosaki. After graduating high school, they left their hometown but reunited in October 2022 with a shared goal: opening their own store.

Inspired by a meal pancake Oyu had in Tokyo, they decided to bring the concept to Hirosaki.

• March 2023: Moved to Yokohama to begin preparations.
• Oyu trained in cafés and bars, learning drink preparation.
• Takaya trained at a famous pancake shop, also gaining experience in Italian cuisine.
• September 2023: Returned to Hirosaki, facing challenges in finding a location and perfecting their recipe.
• December 23, 2023: Successfully opened Dolf., just in time for Christmas.

Future Plans

• Revitalizing Dote-machi: The owners aim to host large-scale events beyond the existing Culture Road Festival.
• Expanding beyond pancakes: Considering opening new types of restaurants to introduce fresh concepts to Hirosaki.
• Evening Space Rental: Available after 6:00 PM for parties, celebrations, and university events.
  • Capacity: Approx. 25 people
  • Food & drink options available
  • Projector included
  • Perfect for public viewing events and sports screenings
  • Contact via Instagram for details.

Visit Dolf.!

Owners Oyu and Takaya aspire to make Dolf. a beloved, long-lasting presence in Hirosaki, much like Blue Eight.

Reservations are recommended but walk-ins are welcome if seating is available. For updates, check their Instagram!

Store Information

• 📍 Address: 1F, 132 Dote-machi, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8182
• ⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Last order 5:30 PM)
• ☕ Morning menu: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (Last order 9:30 AM)
• 🎉 Space rental available after 6:00 PM
• 📅 Closed: Tuesdays
• 📷 Instagram: @dolf_nakadote