Interview with the representative of Kurashiki Tocotoco
I spoke with Mr. Makoto Tanabe, the representative of "Kurashiki Tocotoco," about the background and thoughts behind opening the store.
Reason for opening Kurashiki Tocotoco
Why did you decide to open Kurashiki Tocotoco?
Tanabe
In Tamashima, while many delicious peaches and grapes are produced, I felt there were few places to taste them or fruit specialty cafes, which sparked the idea.
The site of Kurashiki Tocotoco was originally a materials storage area rented by my company, Full Site Co., Ltd., but when the opportunity to purchase the land arose, I decided to open a fruit specialty cafe, which had been a long-time dream of mine.
One reason for my decision was that an employee of my company held a chef's qualification.
Store's commitment
I see. Please tell me about the store's commitment.
Tanabe
Regarding the cafe, I wanted to create a fast food style where anyone can casually visit and sit wherever they like.
Additionally, I focused on the concept of local production for local consumption, using as many local ingredients and materials from within the prefecture as possible.
I also wanted to support local farmers and shops without storefronts, so I established a directly managed store that sells fruits, vegetables, sweets, and handmade items directly from producers.
Future of Kurashiki Tocotoco
I heard that you celebrated your first anniversary in July 2024. What kind of store do you hope to become in the future?
Tanabe
The staff at the store are working together to create an environment where many customers can visit.
I am very grateful for the staff, as I believe we have come this far thanks to them.
Our store uses plastic containers, so customers can enjoy sweets outside. I hope people will stop by for a break during their drive, just like at a drive-in or roadside station, and take their time looking around for souvenirs.
Additionally, the road in front of the store is designated as a cycling road by Okayama Prefecture. Because of this, we registered as a Hareiro Cycle Cafe in January 2024.
We have also installed a cycle stand, so I hope that road bike enthusiasts will stop by for a break.
Conclusion
When I visited for the interview, local regulars were happily chatting and relaxing.
The cafe using fresh local fruits is loved by the community, and it seems there are many fans looking forward to enjoying the seasonal fruits.
After the peach season, it will be grapes. Menus featuring Shine Muscat and Pione will be available.
Okayama's summer is filled with delicious and fresh fruits.
At "Kurashiki Tocotoco," it seems that the contents of the parfaits are renewed every year, raising expectations even more.
Why not visit to enjoy some sweet and delicious sweets?
Data of Kurashiki Tocotoco
| Name | Kurashiki Tocotoco |
|---|---|
| Address | 1707-1 Yashima, Tamashima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-486-0262 |
| Parking | Available |
| Business Hours | Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Regular Holidays | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Irregular holidays (closed the following day if Monday is a holiday) |
| Payment Methods |
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| Seating | Counter seats: 4 Indoor table seats: 12 Outdoor terrace seats: 20 |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking (smoking area available outside) |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Website | Kurashiki Tocotoco |
CAFE＆MARKET Kurashiki Tocotoco