It was just before my favorite artist's concert. After indulging in Sendai's gourmet delights like beef tongue and local pastries, I stowed my souvenirs in a locker, freshened up, and found myself with a little less than an hour before the doors opened. I needed a place to sit...
Wandering off the main arcade into a side street lined with small shops, a turquoise blue exterior caught my eye, along with the sign "IWASA COFFEE PRODUCT." A coffee shop? Sounds perfect!
I was greeted by the calm and gentle shop owner, and enjoyed some delicious coffee in a cozy interior, with a peaceful atmosphere.
A Coffee-Only Menu Featuring Quality Colombian Beans
That day, they were serving hot coffee made from Colombian beans, so I went with that.
The coffee had a soft, sweet flavor, with a clean, lingering aftertaste.
Colombian beans, in my experience, usually have a bold acidity, which I’ve never been fond of. But KUMA shattered my preconceptions, offering a gentle and mellow flavor.
The taste of coffee can change with the weather or your own condition, but I believe it also reflects the character of the person brewing it. This cup, with its mild, thoughtful flavor, seemed to embody the warmth and care of the shop owner, Mr. Iwasa.
A Cup of Quality, Small-Batch "KUMA" Beans
IWASA COFFEE PRODUCT uses Colombian beans called "KUMA."
These beans are grown by a Kankuamo indigenous family in a farm high up in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, at an altitude of 2,000 meters.
"Coffee is a gift from nature. Just as we gather food and fruit from the forest, we must produce coffee in the most natural way possible."
This coffee, produced according to the Kankuamo’s beliefs, feels like a cup of meticulously crafted goodness, soothing the soul.
Six Seats Upstairs with Furniture by Tendo Mokko
The charming upstairs seating area features furniture by Tendo Mokko. The stools are not only vibrant and stylish but also incredibly comfortable.
The furniture here is also available for custom order. Ever wished you could buy the sofa from a café? Here, you can get your hands on your favorite pieces.
The two low chairs here are the same as those used by the mother of Matsumoto Kōshirō in his residence. They’re perfect for lounging, offering excellent comfort.
The interior is filled with notable woodwork and a charming collection of vintage phones. I didn’t notice it when I first went upstairs, but on my way out, I looked up and was struck by how adorable everything was.
It turns out that there’s a historical connection between Sendai and these phones, which explains the owner’s collection.
Just Around the Corner from Sendai Mitsukoshi: The Turquoise Blue Exterior That Catches Your Eye
With the entrance of Sendai Mitsukoshi behind you, turn left. At the first corner, take another left, and you’ll find another coffee shop in the row. Among them is the turquoise blue door and window frames of IWASA COFFEE PRODUCT. So cute!
Step inside, and the interior is a surprising red! The tiled counter is adorable! The retro feel of the space, complete with what looks like a roasting machine, perfectly matches the vibe of the shop and is a joy to look at.
Whether you’re waiting for a concert to start, or just need a break from sightseeing or shopping, IWASA COFFEE PRODUCT is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some peaceful, heartwarming time. Be sure to check it out!
