秋うこん
Near the ruins of Loulan discovered by Sven Hedin, there was said to be a "phantom lake", Lop Nur Lake, which is now a desert. It must have been a beautiful lake, full of water. For caravans traveling through the scorching Taklamakan Desert, resting by the water under the shade of trees must have been a priceless joy. And for coffee lovers, this shop is probably like the "Last Oasis" of coffee shops. Let's start by briefly mentioning the "Nantaru Market" where this shop is located. In an area where land and apartment prices are falling, it is said that apartments near the Nantaru Market have not decreased in value as much. This is probably because this market sells fresh seafood and meat at very low prices. If you can get fresh food you need for daily life cheaply and within walking distance, that's a great attraction for residents. When you actually take a look at the storefront, everything is cheap and fresh. Please note that this is not the "New Nantaru Market". In that market, this coffee shop is probably considered a "rest area". It's a small open area of 2-3 tatami mats, with tables covered in cheap vinyl, and empty cans filled with water serving as ashtrays. It's a relaxed place where elderly women shopping can sit down, count their change and coupons. We also sat down at a table after shopping, planning to take a break. And we casually ordered a "hand drip coffee" for 200 yen. Of course, we didn't have high expectations. After all, it's all about the atmosphere. But wait! As I was about to take a sip from the mug that was brought over, I was stunned. What is this rich aroma! This cup, brewed carefully with deeply roasted beans, is so delicious that it makes you momentarily forget where you are. You can even taste the sweetness. I learned how to brew coffee with a siphon from my part-time job at a cafe during my student days (there were many authentic cafes back then). But I could never match the coffee brewed by my master. Since then, I have never experienced such an impressive cup of coffee. To be able to enjoy this cup in a place like this! I was surprised when I turned around and saw a young woman with a serious expression carefully brewing coffee. My master used to say, "Once coffee beans are roasted, the flavor decreases on a daily basis. Once ground, the aroma disappears by the second." Although I don't know about roasting, I think they probably grind the beans after receiving the order. That's why it took some time for it to be served. It goes without saying that "Kafu Chakan, amazing" was imprinted in my mind at that moment. The next day, I found a shop with the same sign as "Kafu Chakan" in a different location and entered it with great anticipation for delicious coffee. However... "Huh? The aroma is weak, and the taste is completely different..." Upon investigation, I found that this "Kafu Chakan" group had been acquired by a major vendor a few years ago. Since then, there have been comments on "Tabelog" saying that the taste of the coffee has unfortunately changed. Yeah. The shop I visited the next day left a disappointing impression. In fact, although the shop in the "Nantaru Market" has the name "Kafu Chakan", it is not listed on the official website's store guide. What's going on? Well, let's refrain from unnecessary inquiries. Let's just enjoy the happiness of being able to savor that aromatic cup. I hope it quietly remains in a corner of the Nantaru Market's rest area. Just like the Nantaru Market, which is cheap, fresh, and makes your heart leap. Forever.