Came for the parfait, but even more amazed by the 'cha soba'!
Kyoto is synonymous with that finely ground green tea powder known as matcha. In the heart of Uji, a town distinguished for producing high-quality matcha, lies a traditional tea house called Nakamura Tokichi that's been around since the Edo period. Though we didn't have the chance to visit the main outlet, my family and I managed to get a table at the Isetan branch that's conveniently linked to Kyoto station.
The brand has been receiving numerous medals for its premium products at various local fairs and exhibitions as far back as 1895. English menu is available, so fret not!
Matcha Buckwheat Noodle (Cold) ¥1,091 (~S$9.90)
Taste: 9/10
Without doubt, that was the best cold
cha soba I've ever had to date. Infused with their own
matcha powder, the noodle possessed an earthy flavour, coupled with a satisfyingly firm, yet smooth texture. The cold dipping sauce was brimming with
umami that had me savouring every last drop. The dish was complemented with pickled cucumbers coloured with red perilla leaves, as well as a pesto-like condiment that elevated the overall taste.
Maruto Parfait (Matcha) ¥1,364 (~S$12.35)
Taste: 8.5/10
Embodying the essence of Japanese tea culture and culinary artistry, the
matcha parfait is a must-order. Each spoonful was an adventure, an excavation through layers of creamy
matcha ice cream, rich
matcha jelly, airy
matcha chiffon cake, chewy glutinous rice balls, sweetened red beans and chestnuts, as well as puffed millet that provided a delightful crunch. Topped with fresh cream and dusted with
matcha powder to make the emblem of the brand, it was sensational.
Tea Jelly (Hojicha) ¥1,164 (~S$10.55)
Taste: 8.5/10
Served alongside three delectably chewy glutinous rice balls, the unsweetened
hojicha (Japanese roasted green tea) jelly enveloped my palate in a delightful and comforting smokiness. It seems that the number three is the charm, for the symphony was made complete with a trio of
hojicha ice cream scoops and red bean paste served on a separate plate.
The café provides complimentary tea to its patrons. I remember the refreshing experience it offered us, given its vibrant hue and the interplay of fresh bitterness and subtle, sweet undertones. I might've set my expectations too high though as I'd hoped for a more pronounced aromatic quality.
Taste: 8.5/10
Ambience: 7/10
Take note that none of their outlets accepts reservations. Pika's advice: Do head down to the main outlet in Uji if you're looking for a traditional tea ceremony experience.
Nakamura Tokichi
(中村藤吉)
Higashi Shiokoji-cho
3/F JR Kyoto Isetan
Shimogyo, Kyoto
Japan
(Daily: 11.00am - 10.00pm)
*Prices quoted are subject to 10% VAT.
Have a nice meal,
Cliff(y)
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