Takashi Matsumoto: Farmoon
Hearts naturally open around a round table. The flavors of chef Masayo Funakoshi, who weaves time and space.
For Takashi Matsumoto, who lives in Kyoto, Funakoshi's laboratory and restaurant Farmoon is a special place. "First of all, I like Funakoshi Masayo as a person. She is faithful to her aesthetic sense, and her values and ideals are unwavering," he says. He also adds, "The time and space spent sitting around a large round table with friends is bliss."
In the evenings, the restaurant operates by invitation only, and Funakoshi expresses the "now" by incorporating the ingredients, seasons, and atmosphere of the day. "Her cooking is free and unconstrained by borders, and has a 'philosophy'. She is a special chef to me," he says, his words exuding deep trust and respect.
Shiriagari Kotobuki: CAFÉ FROSCH
Relax at a traditional townhouse cafe in the red-light district, where the atmosphere of the past remains
Kamishichiken is close to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. "My younger brother opened an art gallery in this area in 2024, and I've started visiting it often," says Shiriagari Kotobuki. "It's a quiet, charming area away from the hustle and bustle of the city. CAFÉ FROSCH, a renovated Kyoto townhouse, is a great place to relax and enjoy curry and other dishes."
His own artwork is on display inside the shop, and he likes to sit right next to it. "Near the entrance there is a large painting that the owner's nephew painted when he was a child, and I love spending time looking at it."
Honda Chihiro: TUPPERWAY
Cultivating creativity in the highly sensitive spots of the Kitashirakawa area
Seeking an environment where she could concentrate on her work, Honda Chihiro established her base in Kyoto in 2022. When she wants a change of perspective, she travels from Fushimi, where her studio is located, to the Kitashirakawa area. "There are many trendy live music venues and shops, and I can get new inspiration through music and acting."
After watching a show at Underthrow, a theater run by Chiten, a theater troupe active both in Japan and overseas, we headed to TUPPERWAY, a restaurant run by the troupe. "The space is reminiscent of stage art, linking with the worldview of the play. The borscht with plenty of beets and the black bread are delicious."
