If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok or Instagram reels of Tokyo sweets, chances are you’ve seen it: the “blooming” pancake.
It’s visually stunning, incredibly dramatic, and absolutely everywhere.
In fact, the video I posted of this very dessert hit over 22k views almost instantly.
Today, I’m taking you to ISHIYA NIHONBASHI in the COREDO Muromachi Terrace to see if this viral sensation lives up to the hype.
Beyond the likes and views, how does it actually taste?
Here is my honest report on this edible entertainment from the makers of the famous Hokkaido souvenir, “Shiroi Koibito.”
An Urban Oasis in Nihonbashi
Located in the heart of Tokyo’s historic Nihonbashi district, ISHIYA sits on the first floor of COREDO Muromachi Terrace.
Despite being in a business district, the store feels like an urban oasis, surrounded by lush greenery.
The stylish black facade with the illuminated “ISHIYA” logo exudes a sophisticated atmosphere, transporting the refined air of Hokkaido right to Tokyo.
While weekends can see long lines, visiting on a weekday morning or late afternoon offers a more relaxed experience.
The Menu: Anticipation Builds
Taking a seat, I immediately opened the menu to find the star of the show: the “ISHIYA PANCAKE.”
The menu cleverly features “Before & After” photos, setting the stage for the surprise to come.
At 2,050 yen for a drink set (1,650 yen a la carte), it’s not exactly cheap.
However, if you consider it an “experience fee” rather than just the cost of sweets, it feels justified.
I ordered the classic Strawberry flavor to get the full effect.
The Arrival: Cameras Ready?
A few minutes after ordering, the moment arrived.
The staff placed a tower of pure white cream wrapped in a transparent film cylinder on the table.
Look at this tension.
The film holds up a generous amount of cream, topped with a beautiful red berry pattern resembling latte art.
This is the calm before the storm.
From the moment it hits the table, the clock is ticking.
Switch your camera to video mode, steady your hands, and get ready.
The Climax: A 200% Photogenic Moment
It’s time to lift the film.
Here is a CityNomix pro-tip for capturing the perfect video: “Don’t hesitate, go slow, and pull straight up.”
If you stop halfway, the cream won’t spread evenly.
I hooked my fingers onto the film and slid it upwards.
This split second is the absolute highlight of the Viral Pancakes experience.
The moment the film clears the top, the trapped cream and berry sauce cascade down in an avalanche of sweetness.
The texture is luscious, covering the pancake in seconds.
Then, the red pattern on top spreads out, creating a visual that looks exactly like a blooming flower!
No matter how many times I watch it, I can’t help but say “Wow!”
This is Instagrammable Cafe culture at its peak.
Witnessing this transformation is worth the visit alone.
Taste Test: Shock or Comfort?
With the excitement settling, it was time to dig in.
The fully spread cream created an artistic dome shape, contrasting beautifully with the black plate.
Here is the actual video that went viral with over 22k views on Instagram! Watch the moment the flower blooms.
Now, for the honest truth about the taste.
Conclusion: “It’s genuinely good, in a comforting way.”
Don’t get me wrong; it’s delicious.
The pancake itself uses cream cheese and fresh cream, resulting in a moist yet fluffy texture.
The topping is made with Hokkaido fresh cream, offering a rich, milky flavor that you’d expect from the makers of Shiroi Koibito.
However, the visual impact of the “blooming performance” is so intense that your expectations might skyrocket into the stratosphere.
Consequently, when you take a bite, you might feel a slight gap: “Oh? It’s surprisingly rustic and gentle?”
Rather than a mind-blowing, never-before-tasted flavor, it offers “reliable Hokkaido quality that everyone loves.”
Enjoy the entertainment with your eyes, and then find comfort in the familiar, high-quality taste.
Perfect Pairing
The drink set is also worth noting.
I chose hot tea and a pink soda to add a pop of color.
Since the pancake cream is quite sweet, unsweetened tea or a refreshing soda acts as a perfect palate cleanser.
The colorful setup on the wooden table also makes for excellent still photography for your feed.
Summary: Buying an Experience in Nihonbashi
The taste is “safe Hokkaido quality,” and the visuals are “shockingly SNS-worthy.”
The pancakes at ISHIYA NIHONBASHI are the perfect afternoon tea choice when you want to have fun with friends or need content for your social channels.
It’s a place where you buy an “experience” that brightens the atmosphere, not just sugar.
Make sure to clear some storage space on your phone before you go!
You don’t want to miss the bloom.
Tokyo Sweets: What else is on the menu?
While the pancakes are the star, the menu also features parfaits and savory items like sandwiches. The parfaits using “Shiroi Koibito Soft Serve” are particularly popular for their rich milk flavor. Sharing a pancake as dessert after a pasta lunch is a smart way to enjoy the cafe without overloading on sugar.
Viral Pancakes: Can I make a reservation?
Yes, you can reserve seats for certain times via the official website or gourmet sites. Since it gets very crowded on weekends and holidays, booking in advance is highly recommended. If reservations are full, walk-ins are accepted, but be prepared for a wait.
Instagrammable Cafe: How to access ISHIYA NIHONBASHI?
The closest station is “Mitsukoshimae” on the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzomon Lines. Exit A8 connects directly to the basement of COREDO Muromachi Terrace, so you can visit without getting wet on rainy days. It is also connected via underground passage from JR “Shin-Nihonbashi” Station.
Shiroi Koibito: Can I buy souvenirs?
The attached shop sells the “Saqu” series of langues de chat cookies, which carry the DNA of the famous “Shiroi Koibito.” They offer flavors that are hard to find outside of Hokkaido, and the sophisticated packaging makes them perfect gifts or souvenirs from your Tokyo trip.
