Starting a business with your parents can seem messy, unrealistic, or even nightmarish for many people. However, for Yukan Sawaki, the dream of sharing his mother’s choux cream puffs (Shu Cream) was worth any struggle. Yukan’s mother, Kiyomi Sawaki, left her hometown of Toyama for Malaysia 43 years ago, where she raised her family and is now known as Aunty Kiyomi, the force behind Yorimichi Cafe.
Yukan, also known as Mark, has a background in metallurgical engineering and has transitioned from working in his father’s submarine cable installation company to running an aquaponics farm in Rawang and Yorimichi Cafe in Kuala Lumpur. Yorimichi Cafe aims to bring Japanese culture and cuisine to locals in a small hidden corner of the city.
Aunty Kiyomi’s signature Shu Creams are a childhood favorite from Japan that she has been making for 35 years. When the opportunity to open Yorimichi Cafe in KL arose, Mark, along with his wife Xin Ying, decided to showcase Aunty Kiyomi’s creations to the public. With nearly RM140,000 invested, the cafe was transformed into a Japanese-inspired space for visitors seeking authentic Japanese flavors.
The menu at Yorimichi Cafe includes Aunty Kiyomi’s Shu Creams, Very Matcha Cake, Choco-nut cake, and Kirimochi, along with popular dishes like Mentaiko Pasta and Karaage Don. Mark believes in offering homey Japanese meals at affordable prices to make Japanese cuisine more accessible.
The cafe’s interior is inspired by Toyama’s snowy mountains and features wooden furnishings and a minimalist design. Aunty Kiyomi’s warm presence in the cafe adds to the homely atmosphere, creating a space where customers can relax and enjoy Japanese flavors.
Despite the challenges of starting their first cafe, Yorimichi Cafe has received support from friends and family, who provided valuable feedback during the R&D phase. Mark is grateful for the guidance received from experienced individuals in the F&B industry, helping them navigate the uncertainties of running a business.
Yorimichi Cafe has seen a 68% growth in gross sales within three months of opening. Expansion plans include adding an outdoor seating area and eventually franchising the cafe to bring affordable Japanese meals to a wider audience across Malaysia.
As Yorimichi Cafe continues to grow, Mark envisions it as a space where customers can experience Japanese culture and flavors while connecting with his family and heritage. The cafe remains true to its roots, serving as a place for people to rest and indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine with a touch of warmth and tradition.
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