If you’re a fan of donuts, you definitely need to check out koe donuts kyoto. This gorgeous donut shop specializes in making donuts with locally sourced ingredients with an emphasis on organic produce. The cafe itself is based on the theme of ‘wa’ which means Japanese spirit. The space reflects the concept of ‘the consumption of locally produced goods’ through the use of bamboo from Arashiyama. The cafe is filled with 572 bamboo baskets made with the traditional method of hexagonal weaving. The baskets are arranged in a random but natural way to create the illusion of a cave of bamboo. I love the inclusion of so many Japanese aspects at koe donuts, from the cafe itself to the flavours of donuts that they use.
The donuts are displayed in open wood boxes and when you walk in you grab a tray and select the donuts that you want. They have fluffy yeast donuts as well as old fashioned style and baked donuts. Because I was on my way to lunch, I only got two to try:
- Fluffy Japanese Chestnut Mont Blanc (330 yen)
- Baked Donuts Five Coloured Bean (380 yen)
The Mont Blanc donut was fluffy and light with a nice sweetness from the chestnut topping. This was our favourite of the two.
The Baked Donuts Five Coloured Bean called to me because I’m a huge fan of sweet beans, and the topping was solid. However, I found the donut itself to be quite dry and tough. I would definitely recommend sticking with their yeast donuts.
One thing to note, if you order less than 6, they package the donuts in a paper bag, and they will inevitably get squished (especially since most of them have fancy piped toppings).
Worth a Try?
Overall, I would say koe donuts kyoto is a nice aesthetic spot to enjoy some coffee and a donut. It’s conveniently located just steps away from Kawaramachi Station and not too far away from Nishiki Market. I appreciate the quality of ingredients in the donuts and the Japanese flavours, but they won’t be beating my favourite Mello donuts anytime soon!
koe donuts kyoto
Address: Japan, 〒604-8042 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakanocho, 557 京都松竹阪井座ビル 1F
Website: https://www.koedonuts-onlinestore.koe.com
