KAZU CAFE: FUN, JAPANESE FINE DINING

At Kazu Café, the décor suggests that everything about it has been inspired and well planned—from the bold colors on the wall, to the geometric patterns on the ceiling, and the upholstered chairs clad in blue denim.

- NORMA O. CHIKIAMCO

At Kazu Café, the décor suggests that everything about it has been inspired and well planned—from the bold colors on the wall, to the geometric patterns on the ceiling, and the upholstered chairs clad in blue denim. Designed by Liza Crespo of Ecotecture Design Studio, its concept is typical of contemporary café culture, with interiors that aren't bound by rules. Yet it still draws inspiration from Japanese traditions. There's fun in its ambiguity and playfulness in the unexpected twists and turns.

"We want the spaces to give people energy," says Ryan Cruz, CEO of Nippon Hasha Inc, which also operates Mendokoro Ramenba, Kazunori Japanese restaurant, Ramen Yushoken and Marudori. At the same time, says Cruz, they also want the place to hark back to hospitality

Adding to its playfulness are patterns inspired by chopsticks and by the letters of its name (K-A-Z-U), which are repeated in the plates, placemats and even in the takeout bags. Small tables for groups of four make the place conducive to intimate conversations for youthful groups, while couches leaned against the walls look inviting enough for larger (older) groups.