By TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine
Sherry, a blonde-haired, blue-eyed woman, was the first kimono-clad person we encountered during our trip to Kyoto. Originally from Canada, she is the owner of “Kyoto 生 chocolat.” With her gentle demeanor and soft-spoken voice, she became the most radiant presence in this Kyoto townhouse café and its most captivating storyteller.
The front garden view of Kyoto 生 chocolat features a Nishijin loom displayed on the steps — a collection of Mr. Nakanishi’s. Some of his handwoven fabrics, made during his leisure time, can also be seen inside the shop. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
As steam rose from the hot tea, Sherry smiled as she recounted the story of her and Mr. Nakanishi, the male owner of the townhouse. A master of French cuisine, Mr. Nakanishi had once worked at the Japanese Consulate in New York, where he was in charge of French dining. It was there that he met Sherry, who was singing in a cover band in New York at the time — and love blossomed.
The backyard greenery leads to an outdoor seating area via a small path. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
After getting married, the couple grew weary of the hustle and bustle of city life. Mr. Nakanishi also gradually lost enthusiasm for his demanding daily work of designing banquet menus. In search of a sweeter life, they decided to move to a seaside town in the rural parts of Japan. It wasn’t until the birth of their daughter, Sasha, that they began considering a return to the city for their child’s education. Sherry said, “Kyoto, with its elegance and freedom shaped by a thousand years of history, yet still embracing modern development, was our only choice. And this 150-year-old house, nestled in a quiet alleyway, was love at first sight.”
Although it’s a rental property, the Nakanishis have carefully maintained this century-old townhouse. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
Deeply respectful of and enchanted by traditional Japanese culture, the Nakanishis have lovingly preserved the old house. With the exception of the tatami mats, which have been replaced, everything else has retained the appearance from the previous owner’s era. The camellia buds in the garden and the cherry blossom trees preparing to bloom for spring may even be older than some of the visitors.
Mr. Nakanishi is reserved in nature, while Sherry is outgoing and hospitable. Their balance of calm and energy brings harmony to Kyoto 生 chocolat. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)
After Sherry guided us through the beauty of the Kyoto townhouse — from the front garden and main house to the back garden — Mr. Nakanishi, who had been busy in the kitchen, finally presented today’s freshly made raw chocolate. The organic herbal tea, originally a blend of Japanese and African teas, was replaced with strong black coffee. “Please help yourselves,” Sherry said warmly as she sat properly on her knees beside the table. Meanwhile, the more reserved Mr. Nakanishi offered just a shy smile before returning to making raw chocolate.
Takeaway raw chocolate gift box. (Image credit: TRAVELER Luxe Traveler Magazine)