The Japanese have given the world many gifts, but one of my favourite is the traditional Japanese teahouse. There is, in my mind, no better way to take a moment for oneself than to visit one. No matter where in the world this is set up, its typical simple interiors, lush garden courtyards and attentive staff never fail to put me at ease. But the highlight is always the menu. Pages of carefully selected teas from award winning tea farms across Japan are expertly prepared and paired with traditional sweets called wagashi featuring seasonal flavors and decorations and crafted by their in-house wagashi maker.
This particular café was located right next to our apartment in Chiang Mai and we found ourselves visiting quite often. One of those visits we decided to try the chocolate. Not surprisingly they have partnered with Khom Chocolate House offering one of Khom’s dark 70% chocolates made from a mix of beans from around the world. A bit of a fruit salad of cacao. Based on my daughter’s request (since technically this was her order and her drink) we got it iced, perfect for Thailand’s hot and sticky weather.
I miss Chiang Mai and its chocolate cafes. But I really miss the moments of calm we enjoyed at Magokoro.
Magokoro Teahouse: 191, 1 Sridonchai Rd, Chang Khlan Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand. Open every day 10am to 9pm. Magokoro-tea.com
