Mamebo: The most socially distanced café in Sendai

By Charleen Lay

Ever since COVID 19 hit the world, it's been harder to enjoy some of life’s simpler pleasures. If leisurely enjoying coffee in a café is something that you miss, but you’re worried about COVID, rest assured at Mamebo.

Between Tohoku University’s Katahira campus and the Hirose river, is Mamebo. This café has always been known for great in house roasted coffee. However, since COVID, the coffee is operating with new rules with the safety of the staff and customers in mind. Of course, hand sanitiser and mask wearing are standard, but the staff and customers do their utmost to keep in line with social distancing. There is considerable space between each table, and the staff step back away from you before speaking, to explain the menu and take your order. On top of that, customers sit by themselves and speaking is not allowed, except to order! This might sound strict, but I actually found the tranquil atmosphere of the almost silent café incredibly soothing.

Even though I love catching up with friends in cafes, the sound of coffee being made and the quiet tinker of people lifting cups and forks was almost zen like. Without needing to talk to anyone, you can slowly savour each sip of coffee while contemplating the bamboo forest outside. If anything, the silence gives you the chance to really taste everything in front of you and focus all your sense on enjoying an expertly crafted cup of coffee.

The list of coffee is almost overwhelming. A variety of inhouse blends and single origin coffees go over two pages, making it difficult to choose. I ended up picking a single origin that was bitter with a well-rounded deep chocolate flavour. To go with it, there is a limited sweets menu of cheesecake, chocolate cake, coffee jelly and an array of toasts. If you’re interested in the coffee jelly, get in quick as it’s the most popular menu item and is limited in number!

On top of selecting your food and drinks, the staff also ask you what style of coffee ware you would prefer, Western or Japanese. I chose Japanese and was presented with the most beautiful textured set, made by a local potter.

A visit to Mamebo in this current time of crisis is an opportunity to slow down. A chance to relax away from home and momentarily lose yourself in a cup of coffee.

To find out more, head to: www.mamebou.jp/

1-1-12 Komegafukuro, Aoba-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture 980-0813 @cafemamebou