Opened this past fall, Oukan71 has many faces, but its dominant persona is Japanese. Originally an outgrowth of a short-term charity project conceived with Japanese designers, it is now a permanent location offering a store, restaurant and café – defining itself as “a concept store for the Japanese and international avant-garde.”
The venue extends over two levels behind the most striking façade in the vicinity, namely Kronenstrasse 71 – literally “Crown Street,” which also gave its name to the location: “oukan” is Japanese for “crown.” The first step inside jumpstarts the experience: the awesome cylindrical glass door whooshes wide automatically, providing access to the upper floor through an open stairwell. The first level showcases unisex looks from selected designers. A sweeping circular staircase leads up to the second floor, which houses furniture and design items along with womenswear – and the restaurant/café.
Here Japanese cooks prepare fresh delicacies behind the oval bar. The homemade pastries are to die for – try the macaroons created by a former Tim Raue patissier! They’re a must-have accompanied by the freshly prepared matcha latte (green tea) or as the crowning glory following up a light lunch. Choose from a range of Japanese specialties including onigiris (a type of rice sandwich), ochazuke (a tea-based rice soup), red beet carpaccio and much more. All prepared fresh using organically grown ingredients and choreographed with a special eye for detail.
Check in with us on foursquare to get macaroons for 2,50 € or a Matcha Latte for 3,20 € for FREE!
