Trust Tokyo to take the bean-to-bar chocolate trend and transform it into something ultra niche. It doesn't even matter that we're a bit behind the rest of the globe on this one because the end result is out of this world entirely. The latest in a string of bean-to-bar boutiques to open is Cacao Store, which you'll find near Yoyogi Park on the main shopping street between Yoyogi-Hachiman and Yoyogi-Koen stations.
Opened on September 15 by Koji Tsuchiya – one of Japan's top chocolatiers and owner of Musée Du Chocolat Théobroma – the shop is stocked to the brim with quality cacao products, including choc-infused shampoos. Tsuchiya sources his beans from around the world, ensuring you get only the best and richest on offer. And you'll notice the beautifully designed packaging is inspired by the countries of origin, too.
Browse the store shelves, stock up on gifts, or take up a seat in the cosy café and enjoy a chocolate bar served on toast, or a latte with shaved chocolate scattered on top. They serve alcohol too and stay open till 10pm for those who need an extra kick after work. Buying the beans to take home? Here's a tip from the sales staff: grate the beans and add to cake mixture before baking. Yum.
Contact details and map here.
Pretty packaging inspired by the country of origin: chameleon for Madagascar, alpaca for Peru, water buffalo for Vietnam
Latte Chocolat (¥756) topped with shaved chocolate
Toast Chocolat (¥432): One big chocolate slab served on hot toast
