Tucked away in a quiet residential area near the Taiki Town Office and Taiki Shrine is the patisserie "ami poire." Since its opening in March 2023, it has been winning over a loyal following of repeat customers with its simple yet sophisticated flavors, crafted with expert skill. The name "ami" is French for "friend," and "poire" means "pear"—a friendly name that is a nod to the owner's own. The shop, lined with an array of cakes and baked goods, is a special place that brings a smile to everyone who visits.

Patissier Yurina Hayasaka, a fan of the idol group Snow Man

The patissier is Yurina Hayasaka, a native of Taiki Town, Hokkaido. After graduating from high school, she attended a confectionery school in Osaka and gained about 14 years of experience at major and independent pastry shops in Tokyo. She then fulfilled her long-held dream of opening a shop in her hometown of Taiki. "I've wanted to return home and open my own place ever since I decided to become a patissier," she says. She and her mother, Yuko, run the takeout-only patisserie together. "We've only just opened, but I have a vague idea that it would be nice to add a café someday," Yurina shares.

The shop offers about seven types of fresh cakes and ten types of baked goods.

The showcase at "ami poire" is filled with an irresistible lineup of treats like roll cakes, fruit tarts, and baked goods such as financiers and rochers! Every item is a delicious delight. Ingredients are sourced from Hokkaido whenever possible, with a special focus on those from the Tokachi region. Dairy products come from Handa Farm in their local Taiki Town, and eggs are from Takeuchi Poultry Farm in Otofuke Town. Using such fresh ingredients, she says, is the secret to creating perfectly fluffy meringues.

"Basque Cheesecake" 480 yen (tax included)

Winter exclusives: "Chocolate Pudding" and "Chocolate Financier"

Seasonal "Chiffon Roll" with candied chestnut and chocolate fresh cream, 400 yen (tax included)

A standout recommendation is the "Chou à la crème" (Cream Puff) (300 yen). It features a delightful contrast between the crunchy craquelin topping and a generous filling of rich, milky cream. What's more, the cream is piped in only after you order, ensuring the pastry stays perfectly crisp for longer. Other popular items include limited-time seasonal offerings like the "Seasonal Fruit Crêpe Wrap" and "Tarte au Citron," topped with fresh fruits of the season.

"Chou à la crème" 300 yen (tax included)

Gift sets can be assembled based on your budget, or you can choose the items yourself.

The baked goods sets from "ami poire" make for a perfect gift. The "Caramel Financier" is especially popular for its exquisite sweet-and-salty flavor, enhanced with a touch of Guérande salt. The shop also takes reservations for birthday cakes. Their whole cakes, decorated with seasonal fruits (from 3,240 yen for a size 4), will add a touch of elegance to any special occasion. (Advance reservation required for birthday cakes.)

"Decoration Cakes" with seasonal fruits are available in size 4 for 3,240 yen, size 5 for 5,400 yen, and size 6 for 8,640 yen (tax included).

Seasonal fruit cake with Shine Muscat grapes. Reservation required.

For a gift, a personal treat, or a special day. Why not stop by and experience it for yourself?

ami poire

■Location: 12-23 Kashiwagicho, Taiki-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido
■Hours: 10:30-18:30
■Closed: Wednesdays
*Closes when sold out
*Irregular holidays for preparation, etc.
Click here for details and map information for "ami poire"