Tekiya are retail vendors who set up stalls to sell food, toys, and the like within the precincts or along the approach to shrines and temples during festivals or fair days. While times continue to evolve, that unchanging style you see whenever you visit a local festival or go cherry-blossom viewing has a certain nostalgia to it that is truly wonderful. The takoyaki you are practically strong-armed into buying by a boisterous guy might not be exceptionally delicious, but that vibe is enough, and it’s what we want. The toys you win at the ring toss won’t become lifelong favorites, but the simple fact that you got them there brought you to the peak of childhood joy.
Nowadays, there is a place in Gamagori that is building a new culture called the Garage Coffee Company. The "TEKIYA BROTHERS" festival is held there irregularly, a fantastic event that both adults and children can fully enjoy.
This event was started by four "brothers": Mr. Shimada of the curry shop Sunday Spice—who initiated this endeavor—along with Oda-kun of Café hiraya, Makihara-san of Men no Ki Bodai, and Nishio-san, formerly of Quotidien.
The style, which serves as a counterpoint to the endless parade of markets and marche events flooding the streets these days, is incredibly alluring. The momentum from the scene has reached ears far beyond Gamagori, drawing crowds from all over. It has truly turned into a public house.
The people who come to set up shop at this so-called "Night Market" are all sharp and on-point. You might not know what I mean, but that's just how it is.
There’s live painting, and there’s a DJ. Calling it "stylish" just doesn't do justice to the sheer intensity of the personality on display.
Even Washio Tomoyuki, an artist from the recently unveiled SIM WORKS ART COLLECTIVE, came to participate.
Starting from the first event of 2017, Niwa-kun from KAKUOZAN LARDER and I from EARLYBIRDS were also invited to join as "brothers," and we participated this time. It was funny, adding new members as if we were a band.
No point in sweating the details. The real action happens on the front lines. I want you all to feel this new culture, which comes through loud and clear even in the photos.
Gamagori? That's far. No, it's just 40 minutes from Nagoya.
Tuesday? I've got work the next day. No, you definitely won't regret it.
Last train? That's early. No, if you miss it, just stay until the first train.
Can't drink if I drive? If you drink, just sleep there.
That’s the kind of enthusiasm with which I want to recommend this place. It’s a space that can only be felt through the people who gather here.
Next event: Tuesday, June 6th, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
We look forward to seeing everyone at this hospitable public house.
Shimada-san once said:
"Well, why not just let everyone hang out without worrying too much, and have moments where the customers help each other out?"
I think I love those kinds of places, too.
I really believe there is "something" here that stirs the soul.