It was late afternoon on a cold December day and we longed for a warm place to stop for some hot tea and cake. But most cafes had already closed or featured big plastic ice cream cones outside. So we were delighted to see Miyakeshoten...open with a menu posted, featuring cakes and other sweets. Inside, the traditional house exuded charm with much wood and low tables without chairs. We opted to sit at the unusual communal table with benches just inside the entrance. The curvy functional piece of art actually worked well in the much earlier-era setting. Staff greeted us immediately and we received menus in English. There were set menus and also individual offerings. We both chose set menus and thoroughly enjoyed our tea and homemade cakes. I ordered chocolate and my husband went for the pound cake. A woman nearby managed to finish the biggest parfait I had ever seen. Before leaving, we bought two slices of lemon cake to go. Throughout our stay, we received the gracious service that we have become accustomed to in Japan. I noted that the cafe is open for lunch and offers a special curry dish. Packaged coffee and preserves are some of the items for sale here.More