photos by Hiroshi Mizusaki courtesy Case-Real Architects
In Italy and other countries in the West, the pairing of wine and desserts has long-been common practice. But in Japan it’s much more rare with coffee being the dominant post-meal beverage. Attempting to spread the gospel Ms. Katsuki, a self-appointed wine and sweets spokesperson who just opened her first store in Fukuoka.
After working as a patissier for a local restaurant making cheesecakes and soufflés, Ms. Katsuki, who also happens to be sommelier, decided to combine her two passions and open “Tsumons” earlier this year in April. She enlisted architect Koichi Futatsumata of Case-Real, who, after numerous meetings, created a store modeled after the owner’s craftsmanship and dedication. In the words of the architect: “we aimed at providing architecture which has an earnest and dignified sight contrasting with the bustle of the city.”
Rather than compete with the multi-story “jungle” surrounding it, the architects opted for a one-story “oasis.” The bold storefront is stylish and attractive. A large sign outside reads “Wine & Sweets” and the large window offers unobstructed views into the frontal retail space, which elegantly displays a rich variety of wine and pastries surrounded by wood and concrete. What you don’t see until you enter is the bar in the back, as well as the horizontal continuous windows the let a gentle light seep in.
[Wine & Sweets tsumons]
– Google Map
– Tel 092-791-8511
– Hours: 15:00～23:00 Sunday ～21:00
– Closed Mondays
