Are you both die-hard coffee people? What was your overall impression of the coffee culture in Tokyo?
Taylor: We really enjoy coffee, but believe it or not, I’m less full-on and more of a ‘casual sipper’—I’m pretty mindful of how much I drink throughout the week. I actually prefer making coffee for others during conversation, rather than having it on my own. Basically, I’m like a wine sommelier without the talent haha. But honestly, coffee has been part of our routine and my professional life for years, so it’s hard to imagine life without it!
In Tokyo, every local coffee shop has its own unique personality and I love that you can find a regular spot that feels like home. But those smaller, local coffee shops… They hit differently. There’s something about the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and atmosphere that makes you want to keep coming back.
CJ: I’m not sure about die-hard, but I would die hard without coffee. I’ve definitely gotten more into coffee and the cultural aspects surrounding it over the last few years because of Taylor, and now I probably spend more than I should on different beans and our home brewing set-up.