At first glance, one might think that they have arrived at the wrong location for 'La paix' looks more like a posh residential home instead of a cafe. The two buildings with a minimalistic design are connected in the middle. One of the building houses an exhibition space - The Emma Gallery, while the other building is named La Paix, a cafe curated for the purpose relaxation and healing. “La Paix” means “healing and peace” in French and that is exactly what Master Hitoshi Nakata hopes to achieve in Maedajima, Fujieda City after his retirement by opening this coffee space.
Both the Gallery Exhibition Block and the Cafe Space are brightly lit and plenty of sunlight shone into its interiors through its full length glass windows. There is also a courtyard full of greenery where you can enjoy the nature from the insides.
Incorporating elements of wooden furnishings, beautifully lacquered chairs and warm hues creates an overall warm effect in the cafe's interiors. The Master has cleverly created this space so that it is welcoming and makes one feel like they are being invited over to a friend's place for a coffee.
The afternoon tea set came with a cup of the Master's Specialty Coffee Au Lait - brewed from beans which are organically cultivated in Fujieda. and a slice of Fromage Cheesecake with Yuzu Sorbet at the side. The Master decorated the slice of cake beautifully and it was almost too pretty to eat. The cheesecake was light and airy and it was refreshing paired with the Yuzu Sorbet and zest.
The exhibition space and freshly brewed coffee invite a prolonged stay at La paix. It is a lovely experience to watch the care that goes into pouring each cup of coffee, delicate plating of the desserts and enjoy the tranquil sanctuary the place has to offer.
Tucked away in Maedajima, Fujieda City reachable by self-drive, this charming property is worth seeking out. Enjoy your time here in a space that is overflowing with sunlight.
喫茶ラ ペ La paix
Address: 2-29-10-2 Maejima, Fujieda-shi, Shizuoka 426-0067 Japan
Website: http://www.transtyle-architects.jp/emagallery/cafe/
Shizuoka, Japan
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