Sarrasin: A Taste of Authentic French on the Art Island
Naoshima is a place where boundaries blur, and at Sarrasin, the rugged coast of the Seto Inland Sea meets the rustic tradition of France. This specialized crêperie offers a refined departure from the typical cafe fare, focusing on the authentic art of the Galette de Sarrasin – savory buckwheat pancakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. For those looking to elevate their island lunch with crisp textures and sophisticated flavors, Sarrasin provides an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
The Mastery of the Buckwheat Galette
What defines Sarrasin is the perfect texture of its namesake – the buckwheat flour. Each galette is cooked until the edges are delicate and “dentelle” (lacy), while the center remains hearty and flavorful.
The menu honors the classics with precision. You cannot go wrong with the Galette Complète, a quintessential French harmony of ham, melted cheese, and a perfectly sunny-side-up egg. For those seeking deeper, woodland flavors, the Galette Forestière – loaded with sautéed mushrooms and cream – offers a rich, savory escape. If you’re in the mood for a coastal twist, the Galette Saumonan (Smoked Salmon) brings a fresh, salty breeze to your plate.
A Sweet Finale: The Parisian Crêpe
While the savory galettes are the stars, a visit to Sarrasin is incomplete without indulging in their delicate wheat-flour crêpes for dessert.
The Crêpe Chocolat is a masterpiece of simplicity. Drizzled with house-made chocolate sauce and paired with a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream, it offers a silky, sweet contrast to the nutty buckwheat that preceded it. It is the kind of dessert that demands a slow pace and a second cup of cider or coffee.
Whimsical Views and Artistic Details
What truly makes Sarrasin feel like a hidden gem is the playful attention to detail found within its walls. As you sit inside the serene dining area, your eyes are often drawn to the windows.
The cafe features adorable, hand-drawn illustrations directly on the window, adding a layer of personality to the minimalist decor. From your seat, these cute drawings perfectly frame the outside wall designs and the quiet streetscape of Naoshima. It creates a “frame-within-a-frame” effect that makes you feel as though you are looking at a living sketchbook while you eat. It’s these small, artistic touches that remind you that even at lunch, you are never far from the creative heartbeat of the island.
Details and Access for Sarrasin
| Store Name | Sarrasin |
| Official Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/sarrasin_naoshima/ |
| Address | 695-1 Naoshima-cho, Kagawa District, Kagawa, 761-3110 |
| Access | A short walk from the Honmura Art House Project, Minamidera |
| Closed Days | Monday |
| Open Hours | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Budget | ¥1,500 〜 ¥2,000 |
| Payment Methods | Cash, Credit Cards, etc |