elv cafe

Cozy cafe in the heart of Nagasaki

When you're legs grow weary of Nagasaki's steep slopes and endless sightseeing opportunities 'elv cafe' is a great place to rest up, drink good coffee and chow down on some thoughtful and tasty grub. 'elve cafe' has a great location a stones throw from Nagasaki's famed and much photographed 'Spectacles Bridge' (Japanese: Megane Bashi / 眼鏡橋). The cafe sits just across the narrow street from the Nakashima River, the walkways alongside of which make for one of the best areas to have a stroll in Nagasaki. Be warned, 'elv cafe' is a pint-sized place with enough seating for only around 15 people. There is one set of tables and chairs that front the street for those that would like to sit outside, and there is a small counter at the 'bar'. Coffees here taste good and are probably worth the 500 yen price. The cafe also serves juices and alcohol in the form of draught beers and wine (prices around 600 - 800 yen). Only wanting a coffee and light bite, we went with the cake set for 900 yen - coffee/soft drink and cake. At the time of visiting, cakes sets at 'elv cafe' offered the choice of a cheese cake or the famed castella which can be found throughout Nagasaki. The castella cake at 'elv' is by far the best we tasted in Nagasaki. It comes from the castella shop right next door. The cheese cake here was rich, damp, and thick ... like cheese cake should be. The staff at 'elv cafe' were super friendly and service was prompt and kind. The cafe space is all rich woods and subtle colors, and has the kind of vibe where you'd like to kick back with a coffee and a good novel. The Sakaemachi location is a good one from which explore Nagasaki temples and the Hamano-Machi shopping district is within an easy walk. Hours: 11:00 - 19:00 Nearest Streetcar stop: Nigiwaibashi