Cream Puff Bliss at Patisserie Cafe こんま亭
I was in Yokkaichi, Mie, just finishing a hearty lunch at a local spot when the craving for something sweet suddenly hit me. You know that feeling when you’ve had enough savory food, but your taste buds are still begging for a little something to end the meal on a high note? That was me. I heard that there’s a patisserie in Inabe that is known for its delicious cream puffs, so I decided to check it out.
As I arrived at Patisserie Cafe こんま亭, I immediately felt a sense of curiosity. Despite its being a small pastry shop, there were a lot of cars parked outside, which immediately told me one thing: this must be a place locals love. I smiled to myself, thinking, “This has to be good.”
Upon stepping in the shop, I was immediately greeted by the sweet, warm aroma of freshly baked pastries. The atmosphere was cozy, with a long queue of customers ahead of me, each one eagerly eyeing the tempting treats on the display counters. There were colorful cakes, pies, and roll cakes that looked almost too beautiful to eat. I found myself momentarily lost in the visual feast, each pastry more mouthwatering than the last. But, I quickly reminded myself, “I’m here for the cream puffs!”
As I stood in line, I couldn’t help but overhear people ordering キャベツ and キャベツミニ, which, when translated, mean “cabbage” and “mini cabbage.” My curiosity immediately kicked in. “What are they talking about?” I wondered. After a moment of confusion, I looked around the shop, and that’s when I finally saw it, the answer was right in front of me. People were ordering cream puffs! The pastry shop had such a fun twist on their offerings, naming the different sizes of their cream puffs after cabbage! It made me laugh a little and added to the charm of the place.
I couldn’t resist- キャベツミニ, it was! I ordered four of them, excited to try these little gems. The staff kindly told me to wait as the cream puffs were still in the process of being freshly baked. And so, I stood there, waiting patiently. While I waited, I took the opportunity to observe the bakery’s meticulous process. Through a window into the baking area, I watched the pastry chef carefully fill each freshly baked puff with custard and cream. The sight of those golden, puffed pastries being stuffed with creamy goodness had me completely hooked. I couldn’t tear my eyes away.
Just as I was getting lost in the process, I heard my name being called. My heart skipped a beat as I cheerfully went to the counter. After checking my order and paying, I finally had the pastries in my hands. As I walked out, I could feel my heart racing with excitement, knowing the delicious pastry in my bag was freshly made and waiting to be enjoyed.
As soon as I got into the car, I couldn’t hold myself back any longer. I had to open the bag. I had to taste it- right then and there! I pulled the bag open, and there they were, the sweet-smelling, perfectly crafted cabbage minis (キャベツミニ), just waiting to be devoured. I reached in and carefully took one out, the soft, delicate pastry practically calling me.
I took the first bite, and instantly, I closed my eyes. Every bite was pure bliss. The warm, crisp crunch of the pastry contrasted beautifully with the rich, velvety sweetness of the cream and custard filling. It was an unforgettable moment, a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The lightness of the puff, the sweetness of the cream, and the smoothness of the custard all came together in a way that felt almost magical. It was everything I had hoped for and more.
As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but smile. Patisserie Cafe こんま亭 had lived up to the hype. It wasn’t just the delicious pastries that made the experience memorable, but the whole atmosphere, from the charming shop to the friendly service and, of course, the perfect cream puffs. As I finished the last bite, I found myself looking forward to my next visit. This little pastry haven in Inabe is definitely one I’ll be returning to, craving those irresistible cream puffs and whatever other sweet surprises they have in store!
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