Écru translates from French as 'raw' or 'unbleached.' This term is typically used to describe fabric that has not been bleached or dyed, retaining its original colour. In the case of the eponymous location in Fukuoka, which combines a café and bar under one roof, the name subtly 'encodes' an invitation to try drinks created with minimal human intervention—drinks that, according to the owners, most accurately convey the essence that nature has imbued in them. As you might have guessed, this refers to specialty coffee and specialty wines that are abundantly available in this charming venue with 10-15 standing places.