On 8 August, Sydney-established coffee roaster Single O opened a new coffee bar in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, Japan.
The launch of the new store follows the April opening if its Ryogoku Roastworks, also in Tokyo, which marked a new era for Single O in the country.
“After a decade in Japan, we’ve come to appreciate more than ever the thriving coffee scene across Tokyo and Japan. Our clients are testament to this, with cafés such as Dandelion Chocolate Japan, Hey Oval Welcome, Tone, and Bills brewing our beans to the highest standard here in Tokyo,” says Single O CEO Mike Brabant.
“We’re excited to open our first Single O location in West Tokyo, and push the envelope with our most compact Single O store yet. Our new coffee bar brings a unique takeaway-only coffee experience that combines Japan’s love of convenience and high-quality coffee to the bustling heart of Shibuya.”
The latest venue is located in the newly developed AXSH building, a space specifically created for people of diverse backgrounds to meet and connect. The fit out was supported by Sydney architecture and interior design firm Luchetti Krelle, and includes a piece of artwork by Sydney-based Japanese artist Kentaro Yoshida.
According to the team at Single O, the new coffee bar features four self-serve batch taps, showcasing a rotating selection of blends and single origins. The menu also includes Single O’s signature blend, Reservoir, and single origins selected for espresso and long black.
In terms of food, the Shibuya coffee bar offers a range of grab-and-go options inspired by a blend of traditional Japanese and Australian food cultures. Top picks includes the Tokyo BAE roll, a combination of a Japanese egg salad and Aussie bacon and egg roll.
The new venue is led by Single O Heads of Japan Yu and Mamiko Yamamoto. General manager Yu has been with the company for over 15 years and is also a roaster, Q Grader, Cup of Excellence judge, and Brewers Cup winner.
As part of the launch, Single O is introducing its responsible takeaway service to encourage the use of reusable cups. Customers who opt to use single-use takeaway cups will be charged an extra 30 yen. Several reusable cup options are available for purchase at the store, while ceramic cups are also on-site to cater for those who prefer to sit in.
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