Interview with 72cafe staff member Okada Ayaka
We spoke at length with the warm and charming Okada Ayaka about what makes 72cafe special.
What inspired the cafe to open?
Okada (surname only)
There’s an architectural firm called Ishodo Co., Ltd. behind the cafe, and the cafe is run by the firm.
72cafe was created both to promote Ishodo and to serve as a model room.
The interior also has a distinctive design unlike anywhere else.
Since the architectural firm is right behind the cafe, customers can consult with them right away.
One of its greatest attractions is that you can admire the building, enjoy a meal, and take in the space all at once.
Where does the name 72cafe come from?
Okada
72cafe is written that way but pronounced “Natsu Cafe.” The owner loves summer.
The name 72cafe combines the fiery heat of summer with the number 72, chosen as a wordplay.
Tell us about your popular sweets.
Okada
Afternoon tea is popular.
Kurashiki Afternoon Tea takes place twice a year, and we participate every time in summer and winter.
We also offer our own afternoon tea in spring and fall, so we serve afternoon tea throughout the year.
The items change with the seasons, but the format stays the same: appetizers, soup, a baguette, three tiers of sweets, and two drinks.
Also popular among our sweets are two parfaits that change monthly.
We incorporate seasonal ingredients and serve all our sweets homemade.
We’re particular about our fruit, too. For strawberries, we source “Hare Ichigo” from Okayama Prefecture.
In February 2023, for example, we had strawberry brulee and strawberry pistachio parfaits.
We also had the strawberry brulee in January, and it was so popular that we kept it on the menu in February.
Strawberries are especially popular this time of year, so we’ve been using them for the past three months.
In summer, we use white peaches and grapes.
Using fruit brings a sense of the season and adds a festive touch.
We combine ingredients such as chocolate, matcha, and black tea to create our original parfaits.
Tell us about the food menu.
Okada
Lunch and dinner are served as set courses.
Our “Amamido” course, which includes soup, a main dish, two desserts of your choice, and one drink, is popular.
The option to choose two desserts is what makes it popular.
Although it’s a course, it’s casual and easy to enjoy.
Our standard desserts, which are often ordered, include caramelized cheesecake, matcha tiramisu, and creme brulee.
We also offer a full chef’s course.
It includes two appetizers, a baguette, soup, two main dishes, and dessert.
It’s perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries and celebrations.
Many customers order dessert with a surprise presentation as an optional extra.
Our creative cuisine blends Italian and French styles. We take care not only with the flavor but also with the presentation and appearance.
What is the cafe most particular about?
Okada
Above all, it’s the space and atmosphere.
It was designed by an architectural designer, making it unlike anywhere else, and every detail has been carefully considered.
The interior also isn’t limited to a single style; it features a variety of different looks.
Some areas have an Asian feel, while the VIP room is luxurious.
The space is also designed to accommodate weddings.
The staircase is wide so the bride and groom can walk down side by side.
The steps are lower and more numerous than those on a regular staircase, so guests can take their time watching the couple descend.
There’s also a projector on the wall.
The second floor is a mezzanine, lower than a regular second floor and open to the space below. The transparent acrylic railing on the second floor also creates a sense of unity throughout the space.
The owner also selects the interior accessories.
What would you like to do in the future?
Okada
We participate in Kurashiki Afternoon Tea every time, so I’d like to put even more effort into our sweets.
Our caneles have recently become well known, and we’re promoting them.
Some people don’t usually like caneles, but they tell us they enjoyed ours, which is wonderful to hear.
I’d be happy if people came to love caneles after trying ours.
The COVID-19 pandemic has eased somewhat, and more people are considering holding weddings. We’d like to expand into a wide range of areas, including weddings and related tours for visitors from outside the prefecture.
We also take part in events and catering, and I’d like to do more of that.
From the Writer
72cafe was nearly full of customers during our visit.
The space is full of unique, photogenic spots, and the sweets are satisfying too—we could see why it’s so popular.
Be sure to visit 72cafe, where so much care has gone into every detail.
In this stylish, thoughtfully designed space, spending time with someone special will make for a memorable escape from everyday life.
72cafe Information
| Name | 72cafe |
|---|---|
| Address | 3219-3 Shinden, Kurashiki City |
| Contact | 086-441-7720 |
| Parking | Available |
| Hours | 11:15 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (last order at 8:30 p.m.) |
| Closed | Thursday |
| Payment methods |
|
| Reservations | Accepted |
| Seating | 40 seats |
| Smoking | Entirely non-smoking (outdoor smoking area available) |
| Restroom | Western-style toilet |
| Families with children | Kids’ area, children’s chairs, and kids’ menu available. |
| Accessibility | None |
| Website | 72cafe: An extraordinary cafe restaurant produced by architect Izumi Takashi |
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