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Tiramisu soil and a moss parfait: We dig into bonsai treats at Tokyu Hands Cafe

Oona McGee Feb 26, 2015
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Tokyu Hands is known for its amazing array of goods. From bicycles to Kabuki face masks and everything in between, this is a company that’s built their brand with a focus on providing unique and innovative Japanese products to the local and international market.

Now, the cafe on the top floor of their Shibuya store is also showcasing its creative credibility, by transforming its space into a pop-up Bonsai Cafe, in collaboration with the Omiya Bonsai Museum in Saitama. With miniature trees and special goods on display, here it’s the unusual menu that’s really taking centre stage.

After seeing photos of their special matcha latte, an unusual tiramisu and a parfait served in a bonsai pot, we pulled on our gumboots and headed out on a rainy afternoon to give these treats a try. Come with us as we treat our taste buds to an enchanted walk through a delicious miniature garden.

To get to the Bonsai Cafe, take the lift up to the sixth floor of the Shibuya branch of Tokyu Hands and then walk up a short flight of stairs to Hint 7, the store’s official cafe.

Until 5 April, customers will be able to learn more about the art of miniature tree-keeping, with some stunning displays and a plethora of bonsai-related goods.

Today, we’re here to try out their three limited-edition bonsai menu items: the Bonsai Tiramisu, the Moss Bonsai Parfait, and the Bonsai Matcha Latte.

We start off with the delightfully green and frothy Bonsai Matcha Latte.

The powdered green tea is highlighted by some unusual latte art, featuring a delicately manicured bonsai, which emphasises the leafy flavour of the drink.

The latte art is a beautiful depiction of the largest miniature tree in Saitama’s Omiya Bonsai Museum, a Japanese white pine that’s 1.6 metres (5ft 1in) tall and 1.8 metres wide.

Next up, we dig into the Bonsai Tiramisu. We were curious about this one as we had no idea what lay beneath that mound of crunchy chocolate “soil”.

To add to the earthy look of this dessert, it comes complete with a miniature shovel, designed to be used as a spoon.

▼ Let’s get digging!

The tiny shovel added a fun dimension to the dessert; the colours and texture of the crunchy topped-tiramisu made us really feel like we were digging into a patch of soil.

Underneath the soil are delicious, creamy layers of tiramisu. Combined with the rich chocolate, this is an truly impressive dessert.

Next, we move on to the Moss Bonsai Parfait. Unlike usual parfaits, which showcase their ingredients in tall, clear glasses, this one is incredibly understated, featuring a mound of green with the promise of lots of secret ingredients underneath.

The actual moss bonsai it draws its inspiration from is available for sale on the outside display shelves. Spot the difference!

▼ This is our first time eating out of a genuine bonsai pot!

The moss is a light and fluffy mix of matcha sponge pieces. Underneath is a thick layer of whipped cream.

Further digging unearths a variety of traditional Japanese ingredients, including red adzuki beans, chestnuts, and matcha pudding. A fantastic combination of flavours and textures, this is the most unique-looking parfait we’ve ever had.

Once you’ve enjoyed your sweet treats, don’t forget to check out all the interesting displays in store!

Be sure to check out this fantastic event – not to mention their delectable desserts – while you still can!