images courtesy YKDW | click to enlarge
It’s bustling but don’t call it a restaurant. It’s comforting but don’t call it a café. Located in Yokohama, Sakae is a restaurant that was engineered and designed around human interaction an experience. The space, which was designed by Kentaro Yamazaki (YKDW), features a single communal dining table situated right next to the kitchen.
With an emphasis on local, organic ingredients, Sakae offers what they like to call, “something different.” Whether it’s a new appreciation, a new point of view or a new discovery, the space is intended to mix a new ingredient into you daily routine, whether you like it or not.
I’ve always found communal tables idealistic in nature but rather awkward when executed. I can’t say I’m a particular fan of the concept but the elegant and minimal space is tempting me to give it another shot.
The herbs and flowers that appear to sprout out of the table are the work of botanic artist Makoto Azuma and total artistic direction for the space was done by Yu Shigematsu. Although there are events and activities going on during the day, the space as a restaurant usually only functions during the evening. Check out their website to make reservations or plan a visit.
Source: YKDW website
