Our story

The story begins on a summer day in Hong Kong, when Alyssa discovered Café Via Tokyo during a walk through the city. There, she met the owner, Mr. Kosei, who offered her the opportunity to work alongside him.
 
Under the guidance of Chef Yusuke, Alyssa learned the art of making matcha desserts from the fundamentals to the finest details of the craft.
 
After returning home, Alyssa felt a strong pull to follow her own path. She chose to step away from her studies to pursue a long-held dream: creating a café rooted in balance, simplicity, and Japanese craftsmanship. Knowing this vision needed the right partner, she invited Valerie to join her.
 
Valerie’s love for baking began at a young age. She has always found joy in creating something by hand, especially for meaningful moments. Her approach is simple and thoughtful, every creation made to be shared. Although she followed a more secure path for many years, studying and working where it felt logical, the feeling that something was missing never left.
 
Together, Alyssa and Valerie turned their shared dream into reality.

Jacky by Jack and Joy

Behind our shokupan is a story worth sharing and it starts with Jacky from Jack & Joy.
 
I’m Jacky, the one-man army behind Jack & Joy.
My passion for baking started about two and a half years ago, where I studied by myself during my days off.
 
What began as curiosity through trial and error, quickly became fun and rewarding. It was very different from what I do at work which was challenging in a positive way as a chef for over 12 years.
 
Encouraged by friends, I started baking and selling from my apartment in Amsterdam, growing from 2-6 buns a week to 110, plus two pop-ups! Jack & Joy is my space to be creative, have fun, and share my love for baking with others.
 
I’m so excited to collaborate with Kūmi Café and can’t wait to bake more.
 
As I always say: “Joy is only one bite away