If being housed inside a 150-year-old machiya (a traditional Japanese townhouse) isn’t enough, adorable cat parfaits will surely tempt new visitors into spending a relaxing afternoon at Kotoba no Haoto, a cafe in the historical city of Kyoto.

Meaning “the buzz of words,” Kotoba no Haoto is a book cafe with the serene atmosphere of traditional Japan. Visitors dine on low tables while sitting on tatami mat floors, all while reveling in the beauty of the surrounding city.

But the highlight of their cafe is now something other than their history-packed building — it’s the cat parfaits.

After the base for the parfait is made, a generous ball of ice cream is placed on top, decorated with chocolate ears, paws, eyes, whiskers, and a pudgy little nose. They’re also adorned with decorative, seasonal fruit that double the cuteness and flavor of the parfaits. The cat designs are said to change regularly, so you’re bound to encounter all different kinds of cats during each visit!

But for the chance to eat one of these kitty parfaits, you’ll need to get in line early. They start selling at 1PM, but only 15 servings are made each day. If you do manage to get there in time, though, you can enjoy one for 1,200 yen (10.57 USD).

Kotoba no Haoto

Kyoto-fu, Kyoto-shi, Kamigyo-ku, Aburanokojidori Shimochojamachi Sagaru Daikokuya-cho 34

Open 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)

Website (Japanese Only)


By - grape Japan editorial staff.