During a business trip to Kyoto, I had some time before my next appointment, so I decided to grab a coffee. My editor friend, S, who was accompanying me, mentioned a place in Gion-Shijo that she wanted to try. Apparently, a friend who works as a stylist recommended it to me. Hearing this recommendation from someone who isn't usually very assertive—"You should definitely go there if you're in Kyoto, because I'm sure you'll love it"—naturally raised my expectations.
The name of the shop was Arabica Kyoto. On the way, I searched for photos and read some articles about the shop on my smartphone. The logo is distinctive, and I think I might have seen it on Instagram. The atmosphere seems nice, so I'm looking forward to it.
By the way, when I think of coffee in Kyoto, I imagine long-established coffee shops like Inoda Coffee, Ogawa Coffee, and Maeda Coffee, but recently, it seems that more and more modern establishments like Arabica Kyoto are becoming popular. While I was searching, I found a few interesting places, so I'd like to try other coffee shops if I have the chance.
A little after 5 p.m., a light rain started to fall. I got off at Kawaramachi Station and walked from Shijo Street to Hanamikomichi Street. By the time I passed Kenninji Temple, the rain had stopped. After about 10 minutes of walking, I found the shop halfway up the slope leading to Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji Temple). The modern interior, based on white with warm wood accents, contrasts with the Kyoto cityscape. Yet, it blends seamlessly into the atmosphere, somehow. There were customers from overseas sitting on the benches.
I ordered an iced Americano, and my companion ordered an iced cafe latte. I'm not a coffee expert enough to comment on the flavor, but I do like and dislike this one. It had a low acidity and a refreshing aftertaste, which I liked. Next time, I'd like to order an espresso macchiato. (It was hot this time...) The percent symbol on the cups in which hot and espresso drinks are served is cute. It's photogenic. The "%" in the logo probably represents coffee stems and beans.
The head barista, Mr. Yamaguchi, is a world barista championship winner, but he was very friendly and talked to me about various things. Because of the location, it seems that customers come from all over the world. He also has a farm in Hawaii, and is a bean wholesaler and espresso machine distributor. Apparently, the espresso machine at the upcoming Ron Herman Cafe at BAL in Kyoto was also customized by the company. The message he conveys is, "We want to spread our business from Japan to the world." A franchise store is opening in Kuwait in the Middle East in September. Just hearing about it gets me excited.
He also has a store in Arashiyama, so I'd like to visit there next time.
【Store Information】
Arabica Kyoto (％Arabica Kyoto)
Address: 87-5 Hoshino-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Telephone: 075-746-3669
Business hours: 8:00-18:00
Closed: Irregularly
