I asked the manager about the coffee they are particular about
Since its establishment in 1971, Kurashiki Coffee Kan has been operating solely with self-roasted coffee. I asked the current manager and roaster, Matsuo Naoki, about his passion for coffee.
Has anything changed since the establishment in 1971?
Matsuo
The exterior, interior, and furnishings have hardly changed since the establishment.
Aside from some renovations like the restrooms inside the building, it is mostly as it was at the time of establishment. Not only the exterior and interior but also the roasting machine, roasting methods, drip methods, and the menu focused solely on coffee have hardly changed. Rather, that is one of the characteristics of Kurashiki Coffee Kan.
Is there any confusion among visitors due to the menu being focused solely on coffee?
Matsuo
Indeed, some customers do wish for menus other than coffee, such as light meals or juices.
However, because Kurashiki Coffee Kan is a specialty coffee shop, I believe we can be thorough in every process from sourcing coffee beans to roasting and dripping.
Is there a particular focus on the roasting machine?
Matsuo
Of course, one of our focuses is the roasting machine. However, this roasting machine is actually not efficient.
It is a 3kg roaster, and if we only consider efficiency, it would be better to use a larger roasting machine to roast more beans at once.
However, without this roasting machine, we cannot bring out the traditional flavor of Kurashiki Coffee Kan.
On roasting days, I spend most of my time in the roasting room.
By carefully roasting small amounts with the roasting machine used since establishment, I want to maximize the inherent flavor of the beans and deliver them to everyone in the best condition. That is our commitment to coffee.
What are the benefits of "Neru Drip" (drip using a cloth filter)?
Matsuo
Neru Drip allows for an infinite variety in terms of flavor expansion. Unlike other extraction methods, by maintaining the tension relationship with Neru Drip, we can create a rich flavor while conversing with the coffee.
This is scientifically reasonable as well.
Also, not just anyone can brew with Neru Drip; it is brewed by staff who have gained experience over 2 to 3 years. The dripper is a star position.
In addition to the focus on the menu and roasting, are there other things the shop maintains?
Matsuo
Among the voices of our customers, we receive various comments such as
"I came here when I was a student. (I drank expensive coffee back then)"
"I came here with my late wife."
"Nostalgic. It hasn't changed at all."
While preserving the brand as a memorable shop, I want to become a memorable shop for the customers who are currently visiting.
If you have a message for readers or visitors, please share.
Matsuo
You may notice when you enter the shop, but we do not play BGM or cable broadcasts. This has been a commitment since the establishment, and we intentionally do not play any.
Located in the center of the Bikan Historical Area, once you step inside the shop, you are transported away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist area into a world of tranquility.
The sounds of conversations between customers, the rustling of newspapers, the sound of coffee being brewed...
I hope you can relax while listening to the natural sounds that fill the space.
Recently, we have seen an increase in foreign visitors, which has also led to livelier times. However, that too is the sound of our shop.
Some customers stay for a long time while enjoying coffee, so please feel free to visit and enjoy the self-roasted coffee of Kurashiki Coffee Kan.
Conclusion
While enjoying the carefully crafted coffee, listening to the stories from Manager Matsuo, I felt that not only the coffee but also the building, space, and furnishings all shape "Kurashiki Coffee Kan".
What was particularly impressive was seeing the roasting machine that has been used since establishment. Despite its inefficiency, the story of how it is cherished made me feel a deep love for coffee.
Additionally, the staff's response, led by the manager, is attentive, and it is understandable why many customers linger while enjoying their coffee.
The rich menu unique to a coffee specialty shop is also attractive. The popular No. 1 drink, "Queen Amber," is a perfect harmony of milk and rich coffee, making it an unforgettable cup.
When visiting the Bikan Historical Area, why not spend a special moment at "Kurashiki Coffee Kan"?
Data on Kurashiki Coffee Kan
| Name | Kurashiki Coffee Kan |
|---|---|
| Address | 4-1 Honmachi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-424-5516 |
| Parking | None No dedicated parking. Please use nearby paid parking. |
| Business Hours | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Regular Holidays | None |
| Payment Methods |
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| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Seating | 40 seats |
| Smoking | Non-smoking (smoking allowed only in designated areas) |
| Restrooms | Western-style restrooms |
| Website | Kurashiki Coffee Kan |
