Update 14/12/18 with images
What: Omotesando Koffee
In a nutshell: Ultra cool Japanese coffee shop for Rathbone Square
Summing it all up: London's Rathbone Square will be the first European opening for this cool coffee chain which originated as a one man spot in Tokyo.
The low-down
1. It all began as a one man barista operation
Eiichi Kunitomo-san opened the first Omotesando Koffee in Tokyo's Omotesando Hills. It was a spartan space in an old tatami house, but when word got round about the quality of his coffee he ended up serving hundreds of people a day, one by one. Since then he's closed the original and opened a few branches in Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok. And they all look beautiful in that pared back, Japanese way.
2. They take coffee seriously
Although the coffee in London may be different to what they're serving up in Singapore or Bangkok When they opened their first overseas branch in Singapore, local research revealed that Singaporeans had a preference for a darker roast to their coffee, so the end product was adjusted accordingly.
3. But not THAT seriously
Their Iced Cappuccino is covered with a layer of bubbly milk foam which they top with cocoa powder. This is what we ordered on opening day and it's a bloody lovely coffee - and one worth travelling for.
4. They do egg sandos
But if you're thinking along the lines of a normal Tesco egg mayo sarnie, you're way off. These look like little architectural works of delight.
5. ...and custard cubes
Omotesando's kashi look gorgeous. Think of cuboid canales and you're along the right lines. These are on the menu in London right now and you can buy a box of five to take away for £7.
6. And they're ALL about engagement
The London shop is set up so you pay for your coffee first and then go to the barrista to order it. They want to chat to you while they make it, find out how you like your coffee and talk about the process. This sounds lovely, but it may not be what you're after if you're catatonic pre your first caffeine hit of the day.
On the menu in London you'll find:
- Omotesando koffee iced
- cold brew
- Iced cafe latte
- Iced cappuccino
- Iced Cafe Mocha
- Iced Mochaccino
- Iced Matcha latte - with Kyoto green tea
- Iced Matchaccino - with Kyoto green tea
Prices range form £3 for a 'basic' iced coffee up to £4.20 for the iced matchaccino. Right now they have the kashi on offer, but with more pastries coming in the New Year.
More about Omotesando Koffee
Where is it? Rathbone Square, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1PB
When does it open? 14 December 2018
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @omotesando.koffee
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