If you like beer, the best spot in Kawagoe to enjoy the locally brewed COEDO Beer (COEDOビール) is Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato (川越アートカフェ エレバート). But even if you don’t like alcohol, the cafe in the history-rich building is a great place for a break from exploring the traditional township. The desserts, such as the sweet potato pudding, taste fabulous!
The History of Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato
Most of the buildings at the entrance of Kura no Machi are still decorated in the Taisho Western style. The one that most exemplifies this is the Former Tanaka Residence (田中家住宅), which houses the Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato. Pay attention to the area underneath the building’s roof. It is where the family’s name is carved!
The Former Tanaka Residence was completed in 1915 and is the oldest Western-style building in Kawagoe. The residence is divided into two parts. The front part facing the road was the shopfront for a bicycle and gun shop (桜井商店), whereas the second building at the back is the living quarter.
While the building appears to display a Western style, the structure is still built from the same wood as most Kura-zukuri-style houses on the same road!
Allegedly, the plan was initially to build another warehouse-style building in line with other buildings nearby. But the plan changed after the construction started. So the final product became a hybrid. After the gun shop was closed, it became an art museum exhibiting the artworks of the artists from Kawagoe before it was transformed into Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato.
What to Expect at Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato
As you walk into the cafe, the fact that the building was meant to be a Kura-zukuri warehouse becomes more apparent. The high ceiling and the wooden beams are both characteristics of a traditional Japanese warehouse.
Even the wooden beam is dated!
Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato is also where you can take away the locally brewed COEDO Beer. If you decide to dine in, get a window seat on the second floor to overlook those walking on the street and the retro-style architecture close by and decide the next shop to visit. The Japanese Confectionary Shop, Kameya, directly opposite the cafe, can be a good choice!
Tip: If you take it away, COEDO Beer is cheaper at 500 yen. Dine-in price starts from 750 yen.
If you are a vegetarian who eats eggs, make sure you try the homemade sweet potato pudding (家製さつまいもプリン). It is made by the chef of the sister restaurant Furin (和創菜と四季のすし 風凛) at the back of the cafe. The rich flavor from eggs and sweet potato matches really well, and it is one of their best-selling dessert dishes!
Also recommended at the Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato is the slightly sour Homemade Cheese Cake (自家製チーズケーキ).
Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Kawagoe Art Cafe Elevato is open daily from 11:30 am to 6 pm except for Wednesdays and the 3rd Thursday.
- The last order is taken at 5:30 pm.
- The cafe is a 10-minute walk from Honkawagoe Station and a 20-minute walk from Kawagoe Station.
- If you plan to take a bus, it is just a one-minute walk from the bus stop, Nakachō (仲町).
Other Recommended Dessert Shops and Cafes Along Kura no Machi Ichibangai Street
When you visit Kawagoe (川越), Kura no Machi Ichibangai Street (蔵の街一番街) being on your itinerary is a must. The street isn’t just about Kawagoe’s landmark, Toki no Kane Clock and those old black-plastered luxurious warehouse-style houses. The historical ambience and the shops and restaurants that line the road have attracted hundreds of thousands of tourists every year!
So, refer to our article on the Must-Visit Dessert Shops and Cafes on Kura no Machi Ichibangai Street!
Other Attractions in Kawagoe
Now you know where to go for a break and a drink, it is now time to plan the rest of your time in Kawagoe!
The city’s historical area has many attractions, shops, cafes, and workshops that might interest you. You might also want to visit a couple of interesting shrines and temples and perform simple rituals that might boost your fortune!
So, refer to our Guide to the Little Edo, Kawagoe, for more travel ideas!
