Looking for a place to relax on a lazy afternoon? Want to leave behind the ever-bustling city noise of Western Hong Kong? Just grab your favorite book and take a stroll down to Kennedy town.
But, remember to be patient because you might have to walk pass by an endless array of crowded and noisy local restaurants before you reach The Village, where the complete transition of atmosphere from craziness to tranquility awaits you.
The Village, located at the west end of Hau Wo street, just a two minute walk from the Kennedy Town tram terminus, is a uniquely designed European rustic-style café surrounded by luxuriant plants and flowers.
Decorated with rustic furniture by Italian retail brand Accornero, the café has its own cozy and tranquil ambiance that promises you the perfect getaway experience from the city hassle.
Beatrice Yim, who opened the café in early 2010, says she wanted to create a place that is casual and relaxing like those cafés found in small villages in Europe. She explains that she intentionally chose Hau Wo st. in Kennedy Town for its village-like environment and peaceful atmosphere.
To further the purpose, she incorporated her business partner’s plants business into the café. The products they offer range from hampers, fresh flowers, home accessories, wine, furniture and they also offer services in landscaping and gardening for all scales and events decoration for weddings and other special occasions.
Johanna Steiner, a 35-year-old German customer who lives in Kennedy Town says she visits The Village at least a couple times a week.
”I come here not only because I find the clean atmosphere of the place relaxing and healthy,” says Ms Steiner. “But it’s also because it is the place where I can get the best European coffee in Kennedy Town and the desserts similar to what I get in my hometown in Germany.”
The Village boasts the finest brew of authentic Italian coffee and the carefully chosen selection of home-made style desserts ranges from cake slices, tarts to savory pies. Apart from its steady bestsellers- carrot cake and apple crumble- the cake display case features different desserts once every two weeks. 10% discount is offered for any takeaways over $50.
The Village strives to keep its own distinctive style unlike most other cafés found in Hong Kong.
“In Hong Kong, most cafés and restaurants you find are commercialized,” says Beatrice. “You see the same franchise cafés everywhere and I wanted to do something different. The way we differentiate ourselves is by creating a home-like atmosphere and carrying unique products that you don’t usually find elsewhere.”
Michael Heffernan, another regular customer from Australia still makes effort to come to The Village even after moving out of Kennedy Town.
“The Village has a very different and unique ambiance,” says Mr Heffernan. “I think it’s important that this place has that unique image and goes further by actually achieving the authenticity by serving the drinks and food that perfectly match its image.”
According to Beatrice, The Village’s unique atmosphere is yet to be considered familiar amongst many locals. “Most locals find our place rather confusing at first,” says Beatrice. “They are not sure as to what we are trying to do and some people actually look afraid to come in. But I like it because I feel like I am questioning people.”
Beatrice explains that her aim is more than making her café popular amongst Hong Kongers.
“I want to send a message that it is important to make your home enjoyable and livable at the same time. I believe that people can easily make their homes aesthetically more pleasant just by doing small things. Here in The Village, I’m selling a life-style and sharing experiences.”
The Village
Trading Hours: 10am-8pm, every day
Tel: 2575-8188
Address: G/F, 52 Hau Wo Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong
Website: www.thevillage.com.hk
