Dear Foodie Friend,
Today, I ventured into a hidden gem nestled in the Ozone shopping district – a charming café named “Kissa Hajimari.” (By the way, “Kissa Hajimari” translates to “Café Beginnings” in English, perfectly capturing the essence of starting new experiences and journeys.)
Amidst a street lined with closed shops, this café stood out with its stylish ambiance. Hungry from my walk, I decided to step in.
The moment I entered, I was welcomed by the heartwarming smiles of two young waitresses, a delightful contrast to the cold, sunless winter day outside. Their hospitality was truly appreciated.
The café’s interior was long and narrow, exuding an air of elegance and cleanliness without the need for luxurious furnishings. It’s a place of simplicity and style.
On the ground floor were simple seats for a quick tea break, while the upstairs catered to dining guests.
I opted for the soy milk curry.
Reaching the upstairs, I was greeted by a cozy Japanese-style sitting area. With magazines comfortably placed around, it painted a perfect picture of a typical Japanese home. It struck me that sitting here on the floor, shoes off, one could truly immerse in an authentic Japanese dining experience, just like in a local family’s house.
Glancing through the flyer, it was clear that the café prides itself on its exquisite red bean paste, showcased in an array of sweet treats. The standout item for me was their unique combination of red bean paste with Japanese sake – a pairing I’m eager to try on my next visit!
Then, the soy milk curry arrived. Fittingly for a café renowned for its red bean paste, the dish featured azuki beans in the rice.
The first bite was a journey – the mild creaminess of soy milk giving way to a gentle, lingering spice. The coarsely ground cumin added depth with each bite, blending harmoniously with the subtly sweet azuki rice.
The meal was complemented with coffee and salad, a pairing that worked surprisingly well.
It was a delightful experience. My heartfelt thanks to the café for such a wonderful meal.
The cheerful disposition of the staff added to the charm of the lunch, leaving me longing for another visit.
Next time, I hope to share this cozy spot with you.
Koki@SamuraiWanderer
