An elderly patron orders a tart and an Americano, sipping the coffee while leaving the tart untouched for a long time. After a moment of contemplation, the senior finally takes a bite of the unfamiliar tart.
The camera quietly captures the senior enjoying the dessert until it's completely gone, allowing viewers to reflect on the experience of a senior savoring a treat.
The new variety show 'Bonjour Bakery' is part of a growing trend of healing programs centered around actors. The concept of this show is a 'senior café.' Writer Kim Ran-joo revealed that the idea came from watching her father enjoy cakes at a coffee shop, leading to the creation of a café exclusively for patrons aged 65 and older.
'Bonjour Bakery' is the first senior café in South Korea, located in a remodeled supermarket in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do. Only seniors over 65 and their companions are allowed entry. The desserts offered at this café boast visuals and flavors that rival popular items on social media.
The unique desserts at 'Bonjour Bakery' are crafted by actor Cha Seung-won, who takes on the role of a pastry chef. Assisting him as a junior pastry chef is newcomer Lee Gi-taek. The café is managed by beloved actress Kim Hee-ae, while actor Kim Sun-ho serves as the barista.
Viewers got a glimpse of how the four actors interact with the seniors from Gochang and the 'senior' customers who visit the café in the first episode, which aired on May 8. The episode features Cha Seung-won focused on dessert preparation, Lee Gi-taek obsessed with breakfast, Kim Sun-ho arriving early to clean the café, and Kim Hee-ae engaging in conversations with the seniors nearby.
Amid the actors' calm preparations for service, the serene daily lives of the Gochang seniors are interspersed. When the seniors finally visit the bakery, they experience a rare moment of relaxation, which resonates with viewers.
The show is expected to become more lively as 'Bonjour Bakery' officially opens for business next week. Although it may be a bit late, viewers look forward to seeing the seniors embark on this new experience. 'Bonjour Bakery' is exclusively available on Coupang Play every Friday at 4 PM.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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