35 (Miko) — Restaurant in Fukui

As I walked into the coffee shop - expecting what you’d usually expect from a coffee shop - I was instead pulled into the intimate space of the owner’s home. I took off my dirty, travel-stained sneakers at the entrance, replacing it with the light-beige fuzzy indoor slides that he offered me. Squeezing through the first small door, I gasp in wonder at the adorable display of ceramic plates and mugs, mini cotton bags, and nature-esque postcards.

His cat greets me by running past my feet; its curious eyes staring deeply into mine for a quick second before skipping up the steps to the second floor. Through the second slide door, I find a tiny seating area with vintage sofas and wooden tables, with the shelves adorned with short story books and travel diaries. It’s safe to say that I’m in love with this hidden oasis in the quiet little city we came to.

After taking my order, the owner hustles quickly back into his kitchen, an airiness in his step and a smile on his face. I watch him in awe as he decorates the trays with a gentle hand, eyeing each placement with care. His movements are precise yet graceful, as if he is performing a well-practiced dance.

He doesn’t just settle the fork onto the cat-themed napkin; he adjusts it multiple times until it aligns perfectly with the edges, a nod to his meticulous attention to detail. As he prepares my cafe au lait, I notice the same subtle yet deliberate methodologies. He swirls the milk into the coffee slowly, creating a delicate marbled effect when it merges with the dark liquid. For the cheesecake, he dots the plate with two touches of jam, ensuring the vibrant red contrasts beautifully against the creamy white of the cheesecake.

As he continues to take to his craft in the kitchen, I venture into his store, ooh-ing and aah-ing at the little cat-themed items that he has collected as well as the unique ceramics that he has apparently hand made. My over-budget shopping reflects my obsession with this place: one blue-striped oversized mug for my dad, one snow-white mug with a yellow flower etching for my mother, a blue cat spoon for stirring my milk in my coffees back home, and finally a keychain with different cats resting in baskets for my boyfriend.

Finally, my order is served. The gorgeously crafted plate is truly a visual feast. My dessert - a rectangular slice of cheesecake, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, lays elegantly beside vibrant dollops of raspberry and strawberry jams. Fresh apple and orange slices provide a refreshing contrast. Two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream sits beside candied walnuts, adding a crunchy texture. Each bite is a delightful surprise - the light, fluffy cheesecake melts in my mouth, - the light, fluffy cheesecake melts in my mouth, balanced by tart and sweet jams, crisp fruits, rich ice cream, and crunchy walnuts. The perfect harmony of textures and flavors makes the experience unforgettable.

On the side, he presents another tray. This tall glass of iced coffee is another work of art, with crystal-clear ice cubes floating in a sea of rich, caramel-colored brew. As I bring it to my lips, the coldness is bracing, a perfect counterpoint to the coffee's deep, earthy flavor. The creamy milk swirls in with each sip, adding a luscious smoothness over my palate. Beside it, a simple sugar cookie beckons: the first bite is crisp, the interior tender and buttery, a perfect partner to the coffee. The tiny ceramic jug of milk and the quaint sugar bowl complete this picture of rustic elegance.

I am sure to never forget this safe little haven. It is a place where genuine passion, food, and art come to life, leaving you yearning for more of its...

7/14 who knew that the inside of someone’s home would prove to be my most memorable café experience ever? i rushed over here alongside my study abroad friends, with only 30 minutes left to spare before closing. cat-themed items galore were scattered across the storefront and main living room area, the kitchen nestled away in the back where the owner does his magic in crafting drinks/assortments of dessert items. the milk tea was heavenly with a potent tea flavor, which i LOVED because do you know difficult it is to find a milk tea that’s not disappointingly watered down? the caramelized nuts and biscuit on the side were the cherry on top, pairing excellently with the milk tea. even after spilling my drink once, the owner kindly made me another! i will never forget the warmth emanating from this unassuming café, from the beauty of the kitty items to the outstanding hospitality of the compassionate owner. i would give this place a whopping 1000000/5 stars if i could. i will miss this...

いい雰囲気とオシャレなカフェ！ A very atmospheric and stylish cafe！ The cafe is in an old Japanese home with a shop on the first and second floors. A lot of cat themed items and decorations. The portions are generous and delicious. I was also impressed by the careful preparation. The owner is extremely kind, and gave me recommendations on things to see in Fukui.

If you are visiting the area please check...