Spoony bards from across the planet are celebrating the opening of the Final Fantasy XIV themed Eorzea cafe. The high class restaurant in Japan is set within the sunset region of the city-state Gridania. To mimic the feel of the massive game, a soft yellow hue is illuminated from various alcoves and windows within the setting. Square Enix opened the restaurant to allow fans to experience the Final Fantasy universe outside of the normal game play and unpredictable cosplay events. The high class setting provides a calming tribute while allowing adequate relaxation and banter for dedicated adventurers.
Final Fantas y fan and NeoGAF member, Shamdeo, posted:
“Square Enix is collaborating with Pasela to open a Final Fantasy XIV-themed cafe in Japan. The company also has two other operations: Luida’s Bar (Dragon Quest-themed) and Artnia (general Square Enix-themed cafe).
The menu features foodstuffs directly from the game or inspired by it such as the Apkallu Omelette, Titan Burger, and Bahamut “Giga Flare” Curry. In addition to the Eorzean decor it looks like you’ll be able to play the game at the cafe (edit: though it looks like that’s partly a promotional event for a PC/laptop partnership Square Enix cooked up).
Director/producer Naoki Yoshida was at the opening event and got behind the bar to mix 3-star HQ drinks on his fully-melded level 50 Alchemist.
Chow down over-dweller!”
As with any Final Fantasy experience, the setting provides familiarity in the form of Moogles, Cactaurs, and various adventuresome articles. The food menu is crafted with artisan care and includes thirty three appetizers, twenty eight different beverages, all of which are themed with the Final Fantasy Universe in mind. Each beverage is served on a collectible coaster that pictures a Primal on it. Within the cafe, visitors and patrons alike can feel what it is like to visit the Carline Canopy, which is found in the New Gridania Zone of the Black Shroud Region.
Within the Carline Canopy, beautiful stan glass windows, frmaed by dark stained wood, adorns the walls and emits the soft yellow glow that Final Fantasy fans will undoubtedly find familiar.
There are many familiar items scattered throughout the Final Fantasy Eorzea Cafe. A map of the Final Fantasy World is eloquently displayed on the wall above a pair of seats, a masterfully crafted sword is displayed behind a glass case, a short bow from in game hangs upon a wall, and moogles abound are scattered all around, to name just a few attractions.
The Final Fantasy Eorzea cafe opened today in Japan, corresponding with the Free Trial of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn.
[Photo Courtesy: Minus]