Interview with Ayaka Okada, staff of 72cafe
We had a detailed conversation with the fluffy and cute staff member Ayaka Okada about the charm of 72cafe.
What was the motivation for opening the cafe?
Okada
There is an architectural office called Ishodo behind this cafe, and it is managed by them.
72cafe was created to serve as both a promotion for Ishodo and a model room.
The interior is designed in a way that is unlike any other place.
Since the architectural office is located behind the cafe, it allows for immediate consultations with customers.
The biggest charm is that customers can enjoy both the building and the meal, as well as the space itself.
What is the origin of the name 72cafe?
Okada
72cafe is read as "Natsu Cafe," and the owner loves summer.
The name combines the hot, blazing feeling of summer with the number 72, which is a play on words that leads to 72cafe.
Please tell us about your popular sweets.
Okada
Afternoon tea is very popular.
Kurashiki Afternoon Tea is held twice a year, and I participate every time in summer and winter.
During the spring and autumn periods, we also hold our own afternoon tea, so we offer afternoon tea throughout the year.
The contents change with the seasons, but the format remains the same: appetizers, soup, a baguette, three tiers of sweets, and two drinks.
Additionally, the two types of monthly parfaits are also popular.
We incorporate seasonal ingredients and provide all homemade sweets.
We are particular about the fruits as well, sourcing strawberries from Okayama Prefecture's "Hareichigo."
By the way, in February 2023, we had a strawberry and brulee parfait, and a strawberry and pistachio parfait.
The strawberry brulee was also available in January, and it was so popular that we continued it into February.
Strawberries are popular seasonally, so we have been using them for the past three months.
In summer, we use white peaches and grapes.
Using fruits allows us to convey a sense of the season and a sense of elegance.
We create original parfaits using combinations of chocolate, matcha, and tea.
Please tell us about the meal menu.
Okada
Lunch and dinner are served in a course format.
The popular "sweet shop" includes soup, a main dish, two selectable desserts, and one drink.
The ability to choose two desserts is the reason for its popularity.
Even though it is a course, it is casual and can be enjoyed easily.
The standard dessert cakes include caramelized cheesecake, matcha tiramisu, and creme brulee, which are frequently ordered.
There is also a full-fledged chef's course available.
This includes two appetizers, a baguette, soup, two main dishes, and dessert, making it a full course.
This is for special occasions like anniversaries and celebrations.
Many customers order a surprise dessert option.
We focus on both taste and presentation, as we create fusion cuisine that combines Italian and French styles.
What is the cafe's biggest commitment?
Okada
It is definitely the space and atmosphere.
Designed by an architectural designer, it is unique and pays attention to detail.
The interior does not stick to one genre and has various tastes.
There are Asian tastes, and the VIP room is luxurious.
Additionally, it is designed to accommodate weddings.
The stairs are wide enough for the bride and groom to walk down together.
The steps are also designed to be lower than normal stairs, allowing for more steps to be used, so that guests can enjoy watching them descend slowly.
There is also a projector on the wall.
The second floor is a low mezzanine, creating a spacious feeling, and the railing on the second floor is made of transparent acrylic to give a sense of unity to the entire space.
The interior goods are also selected by the owner.
What do you want to do in the future?
Okada
Since I participate in Kurashiki Afternoon Tea every time, I want to focus more on sweets.
Recently, our canelé has become famous, and we are promoting it.
Some people are not fond of canelé, but I am happy to hear that they enjoyed ours and found it delicious.
I would be delighted if people could come to like canelé after trying ours.
As the COVID-19 pandemic has calmed down a bit, more people are considering weddings, so I want to expand into weddings and related tours from outside the prefecture, as well as various other activities.
I also want to participate more in event stalls and catering.
Conclusion
During the interview, 72cafe was almost full with many customers.
This space is filled with unique "Instagrammable" spots, and I understood the reason for its popularity with the satisfying sweets.
Please visit 72cafe, which is packed with many commitments.
A calculated stylish space will surely make your time spent with loved ones special, allowing you to forget about everyday life.
Data of 72cafe
| Name | 72cafe |
|---|---|
| Address | 3219-3 Nitta, Kurashiki City |
| Contact | 086-441-7720 |
| Parking | Available |
| Business Hours | 11:15 AM to 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM) |
| Regular Holiday | Thursday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation | Available |
| Seating | 40 seats |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking (smoking area available outdoors) |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Childcare | Kids' space, children's chairs, and kids' menu available. |
| Barrier-free | No |
| Website | Extraordinary cafe restaurant produced by architect Naoshi Izumi: 72cafe |
