Sabo Kirara - Kamakura

Decided to go to this place because I heard about the positive reviews on TikTok and google reviews. However, it was a disapointment. I queued for 1h 15mins before I could enter the cafe. The reason for the long wait time is because the staff only allow 1 or 2 customers to sit at the table for 4. They still impose strict covid measures ans so not allow people to sit next to each other that is why most of the seats are empty. The mochi balls was simply too big and tough for me to enjoy. I almost choked on them when I ate it. There were 2 dried persimmons in the dessert and it was way too sweet and definitely came out of a can. I feel that their shiratama doesn't taste like authentic shiratama. They taste more like tang yuan to me. It is a let down and I don't understand the hype about this place.

*No English menu and staff is not talking English. We managed to order by picture with help of staff and Google translate. Small but cosy place. Dessert is good and the portion is large matching the price. Staff keep ventilation regularly during winter which is 3 degree.

This cafe has long been famous for its large shiratama dumplings and Uji shiratama. They are served freshly boiled and are soft and very tasty. Originally there was a long line because of its popularity, but recently the seats have been reduced by half due to Corona, and the waiting time has become longer. On holidays, you have to wait in line outside for about an hour. It is cold and freezing in winter because of the shade. In addition, the inside of the cafe is also ventilated and cold. I wish they would change the system of waiting for an hour in front of the cafe and use other methods such as calling by cell phone. I think that would make it less dense, eliminate complaints from neighbors, and prevent accidents from happening. Please do so. Sweetness is very satisfying and Shiratama is just incredible!

Ordered the Uji matcha anmitsu without ice cream. If you like shiratama, then these large soft chewy ones will delight you. Otherwise it’s very good but not sure if I would wait more than 30 minutes to get a table next time.

Not worth waiting in line for. The shiratama is larger than usual and freshly boiled so they are still soft and warm when they come out, but everything else like the canned fruits and ice cream were cheap quality. The cafe is in a quiet residential area which can feel peaceful, but the cafe is always crowded and has long lines that it doesn't matter.