Why I Fell in Love with Chilling Coffee & Bake’s Carrot Cake (and Everything Else!)

Where Coffee Meets Bake: Chilling Coffee & Bake

Right near Hatanodai Station on the Tokyu Oimachi Line, there’s a cozy little café called Chilling Coffee & Bake https://www.instagram.com/chilling_coffeeandbake that has become quite popular. The “Bake” in the name comes from the owner’s background working at patisseries and bakeries, while the “Coffee” reflects his younger brother’s expertise as a certified barista. Their carefully baked homemade sweets paired with proper specialty coffee have been gaining attention on social media, and their fans just keep coming back. 

From Parisian Training to Heartfelt Baking

Hatanodai itself is a peaceful neighborhood lined with quiet residential streets. And tucked away here is a café run by an owner who has professional pâtissier experience, and who even trained in France, the home of fine pastries. What’s charming about this café is that alongside European-style treats, you’ll also find rustic and down-to-earth American baked goods prepared in such a natural, relaxed way. Since I’m someone who absolutely loves hearty American sweets, this place really makes my heart skip a beat.

Crumbly, Moist, and Perfect with Coffee

That day’s cookie offering was—I think—macadamia nut and white chocolate? And yes, it was crumbly yet moist—and absolutely delicious! Since I prefer coffee with a softer, less acidic taste, I went with an Americano♡

A Chill Space Inspired by France

His time in France on a working holiday, where he gained valuable pastry-making experience, became a real turning point in his career. As the café name suggests, his hope was to create a place where people could truly “chill”—a space of comfort. That’s why he chose Hatanodai, with its calm and easy-going atmosphere, as the perfect location. I also loved the green tiles he imported from overseas—they add such a nice, laid-back stylish touch to the café’s vibe.

The Ultimate Carrot Cake Discovery

My number-one recommendation? Definitely their signature carrot cake!!!  I’ve always adored the carrot cake at Bubby’s, but since it’s not one of their standard menu items, I’ve often been left wanting. I kept trying carrot cakes elsewhere, but they just didn’t hit the spot… until I found this one. The carrot cake here is my perfect match!

Next time I go back just to enjoy that carrot cake again, I’ll write another blog post about it. Be sure to come back then and listen to me gush about it some more♪

Rose😊

Words That Give Me Strength, Wisdom, and Peace.

There are words that lift me up whenever I need courage. When I read them silently, my heart feels steadier, gaining focus and calm determination. These words remind me that strength is not always something we create on our own. Sometimes, it feels as though there is a power greater than what we can fully comprehend—an unseen force that opens unexpected paths and offers answers beyond logic.

Whether you call it faith, intuition, resilience, or simply the mystery of life itself, there is something remarkable about recognizing that we are not left without help. This thought gives me courage in the midst of uncertainty, and the confidence to keep moving forward.

One day, as the sun sets and the city lights begin to shine, I look at the skyline before me: the buildings standing clear against the fading light in the evening sky, their windows glowing brightly against the dark silhouette of the buildings. This image is not just concrete and glass; to me, it is strength in form, hope in motion.

These are the words that give me strength.

God will give you strength for every battle, wisdom 

for every decision, peace that surpasses understanding.

Discover Brahms Path: Harajuku's European-Style Alley Behind Takeshita Street

Just a short walk from the lively crowds of Takeshita Street in Harajuku lies a place that feels like an entirely different world. Step through the gate near JR Harajuku Station’s Takeshita Exit, and soon you’ll find yourself on Brahms Path — a quiet backstreet full of European charm.

Unlike the vibrant, bustling Takeshita Street lined with pop culture shops and sweets stands, Brahms Path offers a moment of calm. Its brick-paved walkway, ivy-draped walls, and quaint buildings create the atmosphere of a tucked-away European neighborhood. Small antique shops, cafés, and restaurants can be found along the way, making it a retreat for those seeking peace just behind the colorful energy of Harajuku. 

Brahms Path behind Takeshita Street in Harajuku

A Stroll Through History

This alley was once home to a small stream, likened to the Seine River in Paris, offering a small taste of Europe. Lined this street, an elegant Western-style residence was built here by a Japanese man who dreamed of creating a place where people could experience the atmosphere of Europe, and the path was named Brahms Path.

According to one account, it was through the suggestion of novelist Françoise Sagan, who was a close acquaintance of the residence’s first owner, the Japanese man, that the name “Brahms Path” was chosen—drawing inspiration from her novel Aimez-vous Brahms? (Do You Like Brahms?). 

The entrance of La BOULETTE Dec.5, 2016-Mar.31, 2025 as seen from Brahms Path

One of the most notable spots along Brahms Path was the French restaurant La BOULETTE, which opened in 2016 inside the elegant Western-style residence that once housed Jardin de JUSEINE, too. Beloved for its antique-inspired atmosphere and approachable French cuisine, La BOULETTE allowed visitors to experience a true European atmosphere in the heart of Tokyo. Sadly, the restaurant eventually closed due to the aging state of the building and the need for redevelopment, but its presence remains an important part of the area’s unique story.

View of Brahms Path from inside La BOULETTE's dining room Dec.5, 2016 - Mar.31, 2025

Sitting inside La BOULETTE and looking out onto the brick-paved path once felt like being transported to another city. Even after its closure, Brahms Path continues to enchant visitors — a hidden pocket of calm that contrasts strikingly with Harajuku’s vibrant energy.

Why Visit Brahms Path?

Brahms Path is more than just a backstreet — it’s a glimpse into a different side of Harajuku. Here, time seems to slow down. Visitors can wander, take photos, and appreciate the blend of architecture and greenery that gives the path its European-inspired flair. Though restaurants and shops may change over time, the quiet spirit of this charming walkway endures, making it one of Harajuku’s best-kept secrets.

If you’re planning a trip to Harajuku, don’t just stop at Takeshita Street. Step into Brahms Path and experience the quieter, more reflective side of the neighborhood.

Walking Past My Father’s Last Workplace in Aoyama

Several years ago, I lost my father. His last workplace was in Aoyama, and one day I found myself there, walking near the building where he used to spend his days.

To reach the opposite side of the road, away from the building where my father once worked, I climbed up a footbridge. As I walked across, closer to the sky, I suddenly felt something unusual. For a fleeting moment, as if time had folded in on itself, it seemed possible that I might meet my father there—still working, still alive, just across that street. Yet almost at the same time, the sharp truth struck me: my father is no longer there, and I can never see him again.

After crossing the bridge, I wandered the neighborhood for a while and eventually sat at a quiet café terrace, looking out at the calm surroundings.

MATCHA LATTE at ERIC ROSE in Omotesando

Later, another memory came back to me. At my father’s wake, many flowers surrounded him, but I remember especially the light green carnations—flowers I had seldom, if ever, seen before. They were unusual, and deeply beautiful in their gentle color. And just recently, as I looked at my calendar for this month, I noticed a bouquet that included the same light green carnations among other flowers. I learned that one of their meanings is “healing.”

Now, during this summer Obon season, I cannot visit my father’s grave. But with the gentle reminder of these carnations and their message of healing, I am thinking of my father and my ancestors with gratitude in my heart. 

May he continue to rest in peace. And to all my ancestors, thank you for always watching over me with your quiet presence.

Slow Sips by Meguro River: COFFEE STAND Nakameguro, a Hidden Spot in Tokyo

Just steps away from the peaceful flow of the Meguro River, COFFEE STAND Nakameguro offers a cozy retreat from Tokyo’s fast pace. Whether it’s a smooth craft beer or a freshly brewed coffee, this hidden spot invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

COFFEE STAND Nakameguro is one of the stores managed by SIDEWALK COFFEE that provides craft beer, home-roasted coffee, and artisan bread.

COFFEE STAND Nakameguro is the first store of SIDEWALK COFFEE, and it's located on the Meguro River Promenade, famous for its cherry blossom trees.

I sit down on Asahi Bridge near the shop, slowly sipping a craft beer. It's a leisurely way to unwind after the sun goes down. The craft beer is delivered directly from the brewery. 

Slow moments of Asahi Bridge over Meguro River after sunset. A traditional shopping district in the heart of Tokyo, where the pace of life is a little slower.

On such a comfortable sidewalk, COFFEE STAND Nakameguro is a place where you can stop and take a break.

A cookie & Americano. It's also nice to visit in the morning. While your refreshing morning walk, how about stoping by for breakfast on the second floor? 

The coffee beans are roasted in-house. Each cup of coffee is carefully brewed individually.

This hot Sandwich is a Reuben sandwich. The pastrami is sandwiched between slices of bread and the cheese inside is melting. The bread is a bit hard campagne loaf. 

These were taken in last October. When it gets cooler, I want to visit again. There's no better way to wind down than slow sips by the Meguro River in the cool evening air.

Just steps from the Meguro River, COFFEE STAND Nakameguro is where time slows down. Whether it’s a cold craft beer or a freshly brewed coffee, this hidden spot in Tokyo invites you to pause and savor every sip.

Visual Lunch Diary: 3 Main Plate Highlights from Bistro Quatre Avril

Hello! Quatre Avril is my go-to bistro. I often go to the place for lunch, and there are quite a few photos I have taken. I'm going to upload those photos to start a visual lunch diary on this blog♫

So, let's get started!😄

Grilled bone-in chicken with chunky vegetables from Bistro Quatre Avril Lunch

Thu, Oct 12, 2023

I can't believe I can have such a sumptuous grilled bone-in chicken for a regular lunch😳!  It's like a Christmas dinner dish✨🎄✨

Whole fish with savory sauce and carrot pilaf from Bistro Quatre Avril Lunch

Tue, Nov 14, 2023

Isn't it amazing to be served a whole big fish!? The fish is fried in oil before being cooked. The chef uses a high-quality, healthy oil. I thought sunflower oil was used to fry the fish...?

Beef steak in mustard sauce with grilled potatoes from Bistro Quatre Avril Lunch

Thu, Dec 7, 2023

Once in a while, steak is included in the daily lunch menu. It's a thick, hearty cut of meat. It's a must-try when you find it😍

★　★　★

How was it? I'll be uploading more photos from Bistro Quatre Avril from time to time. Then, I'm off to the place for lunch today♪  I wish you all a delicious and enjoyable weekend!            Rose🌹

Finding Strength Among the Lilies

I have been supportive and have listened to others compassionately because I believe it is the right way to live. However, I realized that I had become a doormat or a trash can of complaining and boasting for those people. I'd listened to them kindly and comforted them. However, when I only occasionally wanted them to listen to what I was going through or expressed my feelings or hopes to them, they responded with heartless replies or just took it out on me.

If I show them kindness, they are not kind to me, rather they are sarcastic. It was a sad experience. As I spent time thinking about this, the last lily bud opened a brilliant flower. It was just a week after my birthday flower arrangement arrived.

It was as if the lily was waiting for the best time. It has been saving its strength and preparing for a week in the intense heat of this summer, and now it has blossomed magnificently.

The next morning, I took some more pictures.

The lilies, blooming large and strong, replaced the other flowers that were weakening in the summer heat. Their beauty seemed to ease my sadness over not being treated kindly by those I had been kind to.

It is not a mistake that I have been purely kind to people. However, I am now at a turning point in my life. Down the road, I can have the courage to distance myself from those who are not kind or mean to me.

The lilies bloom gentle yet strong, just like the strength I find within myself. 

From this day forward, I will dedicate all my limited time to myself and those who care about me.

I am worthy. I deserve respect. 

I reclaim my voice with the lilies' blessing, letting go of hurt at life's turning point.