Kyutaromachi, the area just west of Honmachi metro station, has historically been a centre for Osaka’s textile trade. Though the neighbourhood is still dominated by cloth wholesalers, a recent influx of stylish shops and cafés is bringing a breath of fresh air to its narrow streets. One one of the first of the new crop is Hiroshi Aono, owner and head roaster of Aoma Coffee, who works his magic in a light-filled, airy space around a corner from the bustling main street.
Aono, who set up shop here in summer 2020, specialises in light roast coffees that he thinks best bring out the natural characteristics of the beans and their regions of origin. He usually stocks about five kinds of beans, with a focus on producers from Kenya and Colombia. Tasting notes are included on the menu cards placed on the counter.