Abest Corporation (CEO: Misao Matsuyama) held a "Children's Cafeteria" a total of 3 times every Sunday during the period of June 14, 2026 (Sun) to June 28, 2026 (Sun) at three of its facilities: "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae," "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu," and "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu."

The "Children's Cafeteria" is an event that our company continuously holds with the aim of supporting local children, alleviating the sense of loneliness for guardians raising children, and allowing everyone to experience the joy of eating together.

This time, with warm support from local companies that agreed with our event's objectives, we offered a full-fledged buffet featuring local gourmet dishes and popular menus from each region. In addition to the meals, we also held activities such as a denim art experience where children could enjoyably engage with local traditional culture, making it a special three weeks filled with smiles that satisfied both stomachs and hearts.

Addressing the Issues of Solitary and Child-Only Eating, Providing the "Joy of Eating" and "Community Connections" Through Children's Cafeterias

In recent years, with the increase in dual-income households and the diversification of lifestyles, "kosyoku" (children eating alone) and "shisyoku" (children eating without adult supervision) have become social issues.

Our company confronts these issues and continuously holds "Children's Cafeterias" as part of our regional collaborative creation efforts to provide the "joy of eating with others" and deepen community connections. This initiative began with the event at "Hotel Abest Grande Takatsuki" in September 2022, and we have now expanded our operational base to six hotels nationwide, including "Kobe Port Tower Hotel," "Hotel SUI Kyoto Kiyomizu," "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu," "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae," and "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu."

The "Children's Cafeteria" project is planned and operated by our employees themselves, with unique content tailored to each region and community being planned each time. This initiative also serves as a way to give back to the local communities that support us daily. Our business thrives because of these regions, and we believe that the vitality and energy of a region are what draw people to visit.

Through our "Children's Cafeteria" projects, we will continue to connect with local communities and contribute to regional revitalization. Furthermore, we aim to support not only children but also the elderly, people with disabilities, and others in need in various ways.

On June 14 (Sun), "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae" Hosted a Breakfast Buffet Experience Event

At "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae," in collaboration with Hearty Deco, a non-profit organization supporting disaster victims, we offered a special version of the hotel's signature authentic breakfast buffet as part of the Children's Cafeteria. A total of 29 participants enjoyed a special dining experience where children could choose their favorite dishes and create their own original plates. The venue featured abundant local ingredients such as rice and fresh vegetables sponsored by local businesses, along with a full lineup ranging from Shinshu soba to classic children's favorites and desserts. By sharing meals with families and community members, it was a time filled with smiles, allowing participants to feel the "joy of eating" and "community connections."

Photos of the Breakfast Buffet Experience Event Photos of the Breakfast Buffet Experience Event Photos of the Breakfast Buffet Experience Event

About the Local Companies That Provided Sponsorship

・Yawata Isogoro Co., Ltd.

They provided their "Shichimi Assortment," a staple of Nagano. It added depth of flavor to the dishes, allowing both adults and children to experience a rich taste.

・Nagano Izumi Co., Ltd.

They generously provided fresh, vibrant local vegetables such as "tomatoes," "cucumbers," "carrots," and "potatoes." These were incorporated into the buffet, creating nutritious and colorful dishes.

・Okada Sake Shop LLC

They provided delicious "apple juice," a favorite among children. Everyone toasted with it as a beverage to accompany the buffet, filling the venue with smiles.

・Water Stand Inc.

They provided delicious "rice," a staple ingredient and the foundation of our dishes, which was the star of the buffet. It was served freshly cooked on the day.

Comments from Participants (Excerpts)

・It was great to have a hotel buffet for free; both the children and adults were very satisfied. Although we don't go often, it felt like we were on a trip. Thank you very much!

・It was very delicious and fun. My child was thrilled with the view from the window! The staff's service was also wonderful, and we had a lovely time. Thank you very much.

・We rarely eat out as a family, so this was a great opportunity.

From the "Children's Cafeteria" Staff at "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae"

・Hotel Staff Mallawa Arachchilage Anupa Sandamali

This Children's Cafeteria provided a valuable opportunity to interact directly with local children and their guardians. While our usual hotel operations focus on serving tourists and business travelers, the Children's Cafeteria allowed us to connect with local residents at a closer distance, realizing how the hotel can serve as a member of the local community. Seeing the children enjoy their meals with smiles and hearing them say "it was delicious" and "I want to come again" was the most rewarding part and a great encouragement to all the staff. We look forward to continuing to create opportunities for interaction through food and engage in community contribution activities in cooperation with local businesses and support organizations, expanding initiatives that bring joy to more people.

On June 21 (Sun), "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu" Hosted a Superb Breakfast Buffet and Denim Art Experience

At "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu," we offered a breakfast buffet featuring Okayama's soul food such as rich "Demi-Katsu Don" and "Hormone Udon," alongside popular classic Japanese and Western dishes for children. A special dining experience was provided to a total of 40 participants, who gathered around a lively dining table. After the meal, an art workshop was held using "Okayama Denim" fabric, a local traditional industry, allowing participants to create their own unique works. Through the rich local food and culture, it was a special day that nurtured the children's senses and smiles.

Scenes from the Breakfast Buffet Scenes from the Breakfast Buffet

Scenes from the Denim Art Experience Scenes from the Denim Art Experience

About the Local Companies That Provided Sponsorship

・Johnbull Co., Ltd.

They provided precious "denim scraps" generated during the manufacturing process of "Okayama Denim," which fascinates fans worldwide. These scraps became a magical item that unleashed the children's imagination in the art workshop.

・Otemanjyu Ibeiya Co., Ltd.

They provided "Otemanjyu," Okayama's soul food, renowned nationwide as one of Japan's three great manju. To allow participants to enjoy its elegant sweetness and traditional flavor at home, it was given as a souvenir.

・Tsurunotamago Shimatsu Jushoken

They provided "Kibi Dango," a must-have specialty of Okayama, familiar from the "Momotaro" story. Its chewy texture and gentle sweetness were enjoyed by participants as a dessert at the buffet.

・Certified NPO Charity Santa

This organization conducts volunteer activities through Santa Claus and nationwide support activities to deliver presents and warm memories to children facing economic hardship or difficult circumstances. They cooperated by helping to invite participants through their support network, serving as an important bridge connecting local children with the hotel.

・Water Stand Inc.

They provided delicious "rice," a staple ingredient and the foundation of our dishes, which was the star of the buffet. It was served freshly cooked on the day.

Comments from Participants (Excerpts)

・I was grateful for the opportunity to have such a unique experience. The staff's attentiveness was also wonderful. Thank you for the delicious food.

・Thank you for this opportunity. We had a delicious meal and a fun workshop, making it a very satisfying day for both the children and parents. The staff were all very kind and considerate, which was very moving. Thank you very much.

・It was a good opportunity as we rarely eat out leisurely as a family. Thank you.

From the "Children's Cafeteria" Staff at "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu"

・Manager Yo Mifune

This, our fifth event, was held with the generous sponsorship of numerous local companies. We planned this event with the aim of providing diverse experiences to children, addressing the "experience gap." The craft activity using the sponsored denim fabric was a great success, and seeing the space filled with the smiles and energy of children, so different from our usual calm operations, made us truly feel that holding the event was worthwhile. As a hotel rooted in Okayama, where we were born and raised, we will continue to collaborate with the community and support the future of our children.

On June 28 (Sun), "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu" Hosted a Shrink Plastic Keychain Making Workshop

At "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu," we offered breakfast menu items unique to the hotel, including steak and hitsumabushi, as well as a special plate exclusively for children. Both the children and their guardians were able to enjoy their mealtime at a relaxed pace. With the cooperation of JR Tokai Food Service Co., Ltd., we conducted a shrink plastic (puraban) making workshop inspired by "Piyorin." Children enjoyed creating their own unique works by freely drawing Piyorin and other Nagoya-themed characters. Through this event, children had the opportunity to feel the charm of Nagoya and develop a sense of familiarity with the region.

Scenes from the Breakfast Buffet Scenes from the Shrink Plastic Keychain Making Workshop

About the Local Companies That Provided Sponsorship

・Key Coffee Co., Ltd.

They provided ingredients for the main side buffet, desserts, and drinks.

・Daiichi Bussan Co., Ltd.

They provided "Jagariko" with a "Tebasaki" (chicken wing) flavor, a Nagoya specialty, for the children and guardians to enjoy on the day.

・Oie Sangyo Co., Ltd.

They provided ingredients for the main side buffet, desserts, and drinks.

From the Representative:

"Thank you for cooperating with our company's sponsored event, the Children's Cafeteria.

We are also involved with food on a daily basis, and it brings us great joy to see children develop an interest and curiosity in food. We hope that through this Children's Cafeteria, not only will they enjoy their meals, but they will also cherish their connections with family, fostering warm relationships."

・Water Stand Inc.

They provided delicious "rice," a staple ingredient and the foundation of our dishes, which was the star of the buffet. It was served freshly cooked on the day.

・JR Tokai Food Service Co., Ltd.

They kindly granted permission to use "Piyorin," a popular Nagoya-based dessert and their registered trademark.

From Sachiyo Watanabe, Public Relations Representative:

"Our company's philosophy is to provide joy and inspiration to the local community through our food service business.

'Piyorin,' born in Nagoya, has been nurtured with such sentiments. We are delighted that 'Piyorin' can be utilized in a community-based initiative like the Children's Cafeteria. We hope it contributes to the children's fun times and memory-making."

Comments from Participants (Excerpts)

・All the staff were very kind to everyone, and the children had a very enjoyable time. We were greeted with warm smiles from the moment we arrived, thank you!! The shrink plastic making was also very fun for both my 3-year-old and 10-year-old siblings.

・Thanks to the children playing together, I was able to talk with other participants about school and extracurricular activities, which was enjoyable.

From the "Children's Cafeteria" Staff at "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu"

・Assistant Manager Ryosei Torii

This was our first time holding a Children's Cafeteria, and I was particularly impressed that parents and children could enjoy making shrink plastic keychains together, not just eating. Witnessing the smiles and interactions of the children and guardians, which are rarely seen in our regular hotel operations, made me realize our contribution to "creating a place for the community." As a hotel supported by the local community, we want to continue providing opportunities for interaction through food and experiences, and to create a warm community space where parents and children can gather with smiles and form new connections.

Future Event Schedule

The next Children's Cafeterias are scheduled to be held on the following dates:

August 23 (Sun): Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu

September 13 (Sun): Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu

September 20 (Sun): Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae

Details such as event times, menu offerings, and application methods will be announced sequentially on our official website and social media accounts as they are decided.

Abest Corporation will continue to provide the "joy of eating" and "community connections" through our Children's Cafeteria initiatives.

About "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae"

Located in front of Nagano Station, the gateway to Nagano City, "Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae" boasts excellent accessibility, being approximately a 1-minute walk from JR Nagano Station and Nagano Electric Railway Nagano Station. It is utilized by many guests not only for business but also as a base for sightseeing in Nagano City, including Zenko-ji Temple.

The hotel features 84 guest rooms, offering a comfortable stay environment and meticulous service. With its hospitality, recognized by the "Rakuten Bronze Award," and its commitment to personalized service for each guest, we aim to be a hotel loved by the local community and continue to take on new challenges.

"Hotel Abest Nagano Ekimae" Overview

Address: 1362 Suehiro-cho, Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture

Number of Rooms: 84 (10 floors)

Reservations & Inquiries: 026-227-2122

Access: 1 minute walk from JR Shinonoi Line "Nagano Station," 1 minute walk from Nagano Electric Railway "Nagano Station"

For more details, please visit our official website.

Official Website: https://www.ikemon.com/

About "Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu"

"Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu," located approximately a 3-minute walk from JR Okayama Station, is a hotel that combines convenience and relaxation, situated within the commercial facility "ICOT NICOT." Its prime location makes it an ideal base for visiting attractions such as Korakuen Garden, one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens, and Okayama Castle, allowing guests to fully enjoy the charms of Okayama, the "Land of Sunshine."

The hotel features a spacious public bath to gently soothe the fatigue of your travels, as well as various wellness facilities such as a sauna and fitness room. Stylish and clean guest rooms and carefully selected bedding support a high-quality sleep, offering a superior level of relaxation and meticulous hospitality for all occasions, from family memory-making to business stays.

"Hotel Abest Grande Okayama Nagominoyu" Overview

Address: 6th Floor, ICOT NICOT, 1-8-5 Ekimae-cho, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture

Number of Rooms: 184 (89 cabin rooms, 95 Western-style rooms)

Reservations & Inquiries: 086-226-3311

Access: Approximately 3 minutes walk from the East Exit of JR "Okayama Station," directly in front of the "Ekimae" tram stop.

For more details, please visit our official website.

Official Website: https://www.hotelabest-okayama.com/

About "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu"

Located in the heart of Nagoya's Osu area, "Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu" offers excellent access to popular tourist spots such as Osu Kannon Temple and the Osu Shopping Arcade. Its prime location, a 1-minute walk from Osu Kannon Subway Station, makes it a convenient base for sightseeing and business.

The hotel features "Hanoyu," a public bath with a Japanese aesthetic, offering rotating baths inspired by famous hot springs across Japan and a sauna. Guests can relax and unwind while healing the fatigue of their travels and work.

Additionally, the hotel's breakfast, featuring Nagoya specialties like hitsumabushi and steak cooked on a Fuji lava stone plate, is highly praised. Valuing connections with the community, the hotel actively engages in community contribution activities such as hosting Children's Cafeterias, while providing warm hospitality and comfortable stays.

"Hotel Abest Osu Kannon Ekimae Hanoyu" Overview

Address: 2-24-45 Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Number of Rooms: 84 (7 floors)

Reservations & Inquiries: 052-231-0303

Access: Approximately 1 minute walk from "Osu Kannon Station" on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Tsurumai Line, approximately 2 minutes by car from Nagoya Expressway Shirakawa IC.

For more details, please visit our official website.

Official Website: https://www.hotelabest-osu.com/

About Abest Corporation

Abest Corporation, headquartered in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a company that operates and manages 21 hotels nationwide. Since its establishment in 2003, the company has achieved optimal hotel management tailored to each region and facility through its unique operational expertise and flexible services. The company continuously holds "Children's Cafeterias" in various locations as an initiative to connect with local children and the elderly through "food." Furthermore, through donations to the "Certified NPO Kodomo Shokudo Support Center Musubie," we deliver rice to Children's Cafeterias nationwide. By creating places rooted in the community and supporting existing ones, we aim to foster warm environments where everyone can gather with peace of mind.

・Children's Cafeteria: https://www.abest.jp/news/2024/news0925.html

・SDGs Activities: https://www.abest.jp/sdgs.html

〈Company Profile〉

Company Name: Abest Corporation

Representative: Misao Matsuyama, Representative Director

Established: October 2003

Headquarters: 6-1-1 Hatoba-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, 650-0042

Business Activities: Hotel operation business, senior business related services, etc.

URL: https://www.abest.jp/

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Eventレポート
  • Organizations: Hearty Deco