A Jewel In The Heart Of Ginza

My husband and I often stumble.  We wander a place to get to know it, and that works in Japan, because wherever you are, there's always something to see.  

Last weekend, we decided we wanted to see Ginza.  My husband quickly looked up a kissaten before we left home and we wandered the area until we found it.  Midst the posh, high-fashion scene was Café de l’Ambre, a cozy, hole in the wall full of old Japanese men.  Excellent.  It was rustic as can be, even down to the scale they used.  I think they pulled it out of the year 1947. 

Their menu was extensive, and included only coffee, which is all they serve.  They have blends from all over the world, from South America to East Africa to Sumatra, which is what my husband chose.  I had their café au lait, which was well-balanced and subtle.  Perfect for a rest in the middle of a busy afternoon.

Their beans were freshly roasted (notice the tiny little man in the tiny little room working his magic), and of course, freshly ground.  Their drip method was almost artistic.  Each barista poured water over a cloth filter of grounds – ooooh soooo slowly – while swirling the filter to properly bring out the flavor and aroma.  Their focus was almost humorous.  We love people who take coffee that seriously!  

And it paid off.  We received about 3 ounces of Sumatra in a tiny little cup.  The small amount sufficed, because it was full of body and flavor.  I’ve had my share of specialty coffee, but I was pleasantly stunned by how it filled my mouth.  Oh, this is how coffee should taste. 

Cafe de l'Ambre will be somewhere we go again and bring guests.  Next time you're in Ginza (I think I need some Japanese readers!), make this a priority.