A recent addition to the Niigata coffee scene is Little M, a store that may be small in size but is large in charm. The coffee shop is located in the Uonuma no Sato precinct, which also houses the Sarukurayama Brewery if beer is more your beverage of choice.
Here at Little M there are a wide variety of coffee beans available for your caffeine fix, including beans originating from Guatemala, Colombia and Brazil. If you combine your drink order with a doughnut you'll save 30 yen, which is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of their baked goods - the cinnamon doughnuts in particular are deliciously simple. During the warmer months they also offer a range of homemade ice bars in tasty flavors such as orange sherbet, choco-banana, and blueberry cheese tart.
There's no in-store seating, but on the second level of the premises there is an outdoor patio area with tables and chairs. It's the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the views of the surrounding area.
Getting there
The closest station to Little M is Itsukamachi Station on the JR Joetsu Line. From there, the premises is approximately a 10 minute taxi ride. Alternatively if you are headed there via private vehicle, there is a small parking area out the front of the store. More parking is available at the neighboring Sarukurayama Brewery.