Warabi Mochi Latte: Tokyo's Latest Food Trend Worth Trying

Tokyo is home to countless food trends, many of which combine traditional flavors with modern twists. One of the latest trends to capture the city’s attention is the warabi mochi latte.

This unique drink combines warabi mochi, a chewy Japanese treat made from bracken starch, with the creamy richness of a latte. It’s a delightful fusion that offers both texture and flavor, and while it’s becoming more popular, you’ll find it most notably in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts.

What is Warabi Mochi?

Warabi mochi is a traditional Japanese sweet made from warabi starch, which is extracted from the roots of a bracken fern called warabi. Unlike rice-based mochi, which is chewy and dense, warabi mochi has a jelly-like texture that’s light, soft, and slightly bouncy.

It’s typically dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) or served with kuromitsu (black sugar syrup) to enhance its flavor. The treat is especially popular in the summer, as it’s cool and refreshing, making it a perfect addition to cold drinks like lattes.

When paired with coffee or matcha, the smooth texture of warabi mochi creates an interesting contrast with the creamy drink, offering a refreshing and unique experience for those who enjoy both Japanese sweets and modern coffee culture.

The Rise of the Warabi Mochi Latte: Why Tokyo Loves this Trend

While Japan is known for fusing traditional sweets with modern flavors, the specific trend of adding warabi mochi to lattes is relatively new. Over the past few years, more cafes in Tokyo have started experimenting with this combination, often blending the chewy mochi with matcha or espresso to create a drink that feels both familiar and exciting.

Though this trend is spreading, it has become most popular in Asakusa, an area famous for its rich history, traditional sweets, and cultural landmarks like Senso-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate.

Here, traditional Japanese flavors meet contemporary trends, making it the perfect place to experience a warabi mochi latte. Here are three great spots in Asakusa where you can enjoy this innovative drink:

1. Special Matcha Sweets Kaminari Issa Denbōin Dōri

Located on the peaceful Denbōin Dōri Street, near Senso-ji Temple, Kaminari Issa specializes in high-quality matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. The cafe is known for its peaceful, elegant atmosphere that invites customers to relax and enjoy their treats.

Why You Should Go:

Kaminari Issa is renowned for its carefully sourced matcha, and their warabi mochi latte uses this top-tier matcha to create a rich, smooth drink. The slightly bitter matcha flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the warabi mochi, making it a must-try for matcha enthusiasts.

You can also pick how strong the matcha level is on a scale of one to three!

Traditional Touch:

While the cafe embraces modern trends like the warabi mochi latte, it stays true to traditional Japanese sweets. The balance between new flavors and time-honored techniques makes this cafe a perfect stop for those looking to taste authentic, high-quality matcha and mochi.

The Ambiance:

The calm, minimalist interior provides a nice break from the busy streets of Asakusa. Whether you’re enjoying a drink or simply relaxing, the space adds to the overall experience. You can also buy matcha to take home.

2. Warabi Mochi Motoko

A short walk from Asakusa Station, Warabi Mochi Motoko is a small, family-run shop that’s known for its traditional approach to making warabi mochi. Recently, they’ve added the warabi mochi latte to their menu, combining their signature fresh warabi mochi with a latte for a comforting and satisfying drink.

Why You Should Go:

The warabi mochi at Motoko is made fresh daily, and it’s one of the smoothest and most delicate versions in Asakusa. If you’re new to warabi mochi, this is a great place to start. The mochi’s soft, jelly-like texture adds a lovely contrast to the creaminess of the latte.

Simple & Cozy:

Warabimochi Motoko is a small, intimate shop with a traditional atmosphere. The setting is relaxed, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a drink at your own pace. It’s an ideal choice for those who want an authentic Japanese sweet experience without the crowds.

Traditional Vibe:

While the warabi mochi latte is a modern twist, the cafe remains rooted in the traditional Japanese sweet-making process. If you’re looking for a blend of old and new, this is a great place to visit!

3. Kamakura Sweets Asakusa Kaminarimon

Located right by the iconic Kaminarimon Gate, Kamakura Sweets is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The cafe specializes in traditional Japanese desserts, and its warabi mochi latte is a standout on the menu, offering a creative twist on a classic favorite.

Why You Should Go:

Creative Fusion: Kamakura Sweets’ warabi mochi latte features a smooth, creamy base that complements the chewy mochi perfectly. The combination of traditional Japanese flavors with a modern latte base creates a unique and refreshing drink.

Variety of Traditional Sweets:

In addition to their warabi mochi latte, Kamakura Sweets offers a wide range of other traditional desserts, like matcha parfaits and anmitsu (a jelly-based dessert). It’s a great place to explore a variety of Japanese sweets!

Prime Location:

Kamakura Sweets is located near the bustling Kaminarimon Gate, making it an easy and convenient stop while exploring Asakusa. Before or after visiting the nearby attractions, it’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy a drink.

Wrap-Up: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Warabi Mochi Latte

The warabi mochi latte is a perfect example of how Tokyo blends the old with the new, combining a traditional Japanese sweet with a modern coffeehouse drink. While the trend is still growing, Asakusa has become a key place to try this unique treat, thanks to its mix of history and innovation.

A covered shōtengai shopping street in Asakausa.

Whether you’re a fan of matcha, interested in trying warabi mochi for the first time, or just curious about new food trends, the three spots highlighted offer you the best chance to experience this trendy drink! It’s a delicious fusion of tradition and innovation that’s worth trying during your visit to Tokyo.