A Teal Gem Hidden in the Depths of Nihonbashi Kabutocho
Hello, this is CityNomix. Alongside my work in digital marketing, I wander through cities both in Japan and abroad, uncovering local culture. The other day, still savoring the wonderful experience at Patisserie ease in Nihonbashi, I embarked on a new sweet adventure. My destination: Nihonbashi Kabutocho. I’d heard that at this historic site, where Eiichi Shibusawa’s residence once stood, there was an incredibly delicious ice cream and chocolate shop called Teal Nihonbashi.
Kabutocho, while known as a financial district, has recently seen an increase in unique eateries and galleries, gaining attention as a new hub for culture. In a corner of such a town, I found my target, “Teal.” True to its name, the vibrant teal-blue exterior stood out strikingly even under the cloudy sky, like a jewel embedded in the city.
The Allure of Dining In and an Initial Small Hurdle
I had heard that “Teal” also had an eat-in space offering special menu items available only there, so, much like my visit to Patisserie ease, I was determined to indulge in these exclusive flavors. With my heart pounding in anticipation, I opened the door… only to find it completely full! It seemed I was just a tad too late. “Oh well…” I sighed inwardly, but this, too, is part of the authentic experience.
However, a staff member informed me that seating was on a 45-minute system. They graciously offered to call me when a table became available if I left my phone number. Such thoughtful consideration is often a hallmark of popular establishments. Though slightly disheartened, I composed myself and turned my attention to the showcase. There, an array of cakes, like works of art, were lined up. These were also available for takeout. The sparkling sweets made even the waiting time feel enjoyable.
Anticipation Builds: Choosing from the Menu – A Fateful Encounter with “Dōn” and a Recommendation
While waiting, I perused the eat-in menu. The warm, handwritten-style menu hinted at the delightful culinary experience to come.
The first thing that caught my eye was “Chocolate Pudding with a ‘Dōn’ of Milk Ice Cream.” What a name! “Dōn”… I couldn’t help but smile. Since I came for ice cream, this was a must-try. I love pudding too, so it was the perfect combination.
What to choose for my second item? The cakes in the showcase were tempting, but I truly wanted an experience unique to dining in. As I pondered, a staff member approached. “How about the Pistachio Gelato and Cherry Crêpes Suzette? It’s an eat-in exclusive and a new addition to our menu,” she suggested. “If it’s recommended, it must be good!” I thought, and so my second star dessert was decided. For drinks, I selected a classic café au lait and a slightly unusual osmanthus herb tea.
Exploring Kabutocho and the Welcomed Call
After placing my order, I stepped outside for a bit. I decided to take a short stroll around the area. This Kabutocho neighborhood is dotted with stylish bars and restaurants housed in renovated historic buildings, making it a fun place to explore. I’ve been particularly curious about a bar attached to a hotel called “K5.” I hope to visit it someday.
As I was enjoying the local atmosphere, my phone rang sooner than expected – in less than 30 minutes. Perhaps the previous customers had vacated their seats smoothly. Feeling grateful, I suppressed my excitement and hurried back to “Teal.”
A Blissful Sweets Time: Masterpieces to Delight the Senses
Upon being seated, my drinks arrived shortly. The café au lait was reliably delicious. The osmanthus herb tea released a wonderfully rich aroma that heightened my anticipation for the sweet treats to come. It was a gentle fragrance, reminiscent of autumn’s arrival.
The Impactful “Dōn” Pudding Arrives
And then, it finally arrived: “Chocolate Pudding with a ‘Dōn’ of Milk Ice Cream.” True to its name, a generous scoop of milk ice cream sat boldly atop a glossy chocolate pudding. The term “dōn” (like a ‘thud’ or ‘plonk’) was indeed fitting. The visual impact was significant, but one bite revealed a delightful melting fusion of the rich, bittersweet chocolate pudding and the cool, gentle sweetness of the milk ice cream. This was… divine! Both were rich, yet not at all cloying. My spoon simply couldn’t stop.
A Splendid Encounter with Crêpes Suzette
While still savoring the pudding’s aftertaste, the “Pistachio Gelato and Cherry Crêpes Suzette” was brought out almost immediately. The warm crêpe had soaked up an orange-flavored sauce, and was beautifully adorned with vibrant pistachio-green gelato and glossy cherries. It was truly an edible work of art.
The first bite was an explosion of sensations: the temperature contrast of the warm crêpe and cold gelato, the crêpe’s soft texture, the nutty pistachio flavor, the tart-sweetness of the cherries, and the refreshing aroma of the orange sauce, all coming together. It far exceeded my expectations! Following the rich chocolate pudding, the tartness of the berries provided a wonderful counterpoint, and I devoured this dessert as well.
Reflecting on the Teal Experience: Supreme Sweets in Nihonbashi Kabutocho
Conscious that others might be waiting, I decided to leave as soon as I finished. By the time I was paying, I noticed, surprisingly, that a few tables had opened up. Perhaps on a weekday around this time (just past noon), one might get in relatively smoothly with a short wait or by timing it right. However, if aiming for a spot right at opening, it seems one would indeed need to be prepared to queue beforehand.
Teal Nihonbashi was not just delicious; it was a place where I could feel the passion infused into the space, the service, and, above all, each individual sweet. To encounter such modern and sophisticated Nihonbashi Kabutocho sweets in a location with the historical backdrop of the Shibusawa Eiichi residence site was a truly Tokyo-esque experience, where the old and new sensibilities merge. As a Nihonbashi ice cream specialty shop and a chocolate specialist, its quality is undeniable. My Teal menu recommendations are definitely the “Dōn Pudding” and the “Crêpes Suzette” I had, but I’m eager to try the cakes from the showcase next time.
Whether as part of a Tokyo stylish cafe hopping tour or as a special treat, I can confidently recommend “Teal.” For me, CityNomix, it’s another esteemed addition to my list of favorites.
Location: (Exact address not clear from the memo; checking the official website is recommended)
Official Website: https://teal-chocolate-and-icecream.com/
Google Map :