Mochi, a traditional Japanese rice cake, has become a beloved treat worldwide. With its soft, chewy texture and endless flavor possibilities, mochi appeals to many people, from those who love traditional red bean fillings to those craving modern twists like matcha cream or fruit-filled variations. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best mochi stores across the globe that are worth visiting for an unforgettable taste experience.
1. Mochi Mochi – Tokyo, Japan
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Mochi Mochi is a must-visit for those seeking traditional Japanese mochi. This small, family-owned store has perfected the art of handmade mochi, offering classic flavors like red bean paste and yomogi (mugwort) alongside seasonal creations. Every piece is made with glutinous rice that is pounded fresh daily, giving it a delightful chewiness and perfect consistency.
Must-Try: The sakura mochi (cherry blossom-flavored mochi), available during springtime, is a delicate delight that beautifully captures the essence of Japanese culture.
2. Third Culture Bakery – Berkeley, California, USA
Third Culture Bakery is famous for its delightful mochi muffins and donuts, which have taken California by storm. Located in Berkeley, this bakery combines Japanese mochi traditions with an American twist. The mochi muffins are known for their crispy outer layer and soft, chewy interior, with flavors like matcha, black sesame, and passion fruit that appeal to a diverse range of tastes.
Must-Try: The matcha mochi donut is a crowd favorite, featuring a balance of earthy matcha flavor with a light, fluffy mochi texture.
3. Mochi Rin – Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, known for its rich cultural heritage, is also home to Mochi Rin, an artisan mochi store that specializes in beautifully crafted daifuku mochi (mochi filled with various ingredients). Mochi Rin takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients, and their fillings range from classic sweet azuki beans to fresh strawberries and cream.
Must-Try: The strawberry daifuku, featuring a whole strawberry surrounded by smooth red bean paste and wrapped in soft mochi, is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
4. Minamoto Kitchoan – New York City, USA
Minamoto Kitchoan brings the art of Japanese wagashi (traditional sweets) to the bustling streets of New York City. This upscale store offers an impressive array of mochi and other Japanese sweets, with a focus on premium quality and seasonal offerings. Each piece of mochi is exquisitely packaged, making it perfect for gifting or enjoying as a personal indulgence.
Must-Try: The mikan mochi (filled with a sweet mandarin orange paste) is a refreshing treat, perfect for a light and citrusy bite.
5. Mikawaya – Los Angeles, California, USA
Mikawaya is a historic mochi shop in Los Angeles, known for popularizing mochi ice cream in the United States. Founded in 1910, this store has deep roots in Japanese confectionery. Their mochi ice cream combines the chewy texture of mochi with creamy, flavorful ice cream, making it a favorite for those who want to enjoy a frozen version of this Japanese classic.
Must-Try: The mango mochi ice cream is a refreshing and tropical take on mochi that perfectly balances the chewiness of the mochi shell with the smooth, fruity ice cream inside.
6. Cha-An Teahouse – New York City, USA
Located in the East Village of New York City, Cha-An Teahouse is a hidden gem for mochi lovers. While it’s primarily a Japanese tea house, their dessert offerings include freshly made mochi that pairs wonderfully with their curated selection of teas. The serene and cozy atmosphere makes this an ideal spot to enjoy mochi in a relaxed setting.
Must-Try: The mochi sampler platter, which features an assortment of freshly made mochi with different fillings like red bean, matcha cream, and black sesame.
7. Benkyodo Company – San Francisco, California, USA
Benkyodo Company is one of the oldest mochi shops in the United States, located in San Francisco's Japantown. Opened in 1906, this family-run shop has been producing traditional handmade mochi and manju for over a century. The mochi here is made fresh daily, maintaining the traditional recipes and techniques passed down through generations.
Must-Try: The peanut butter mochi is a unique twist that combines the traditional texture of mochi with a creamy, nutty filling that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
8. TsuruTonTan Udon Noodle Brasserie – Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
While TsuruTonTan is best known for its udon, the Honolulu location also serves a variety of traditional and modern mochi. Given Hawaii's historical ties to Japanese culture, it's no surprise that mochi is a popular treat here. The tropical climate adds a unique twist to the fillings, with flavors like coconut and lilikoi (passion fruit) being fan favorites.
Must-Try: The lilikoi mochi has a bright, tangy filling that’s balanced by the soft and sweet mochi exterior—a perfect tropical delight.
9. Naniwaya – Osaka, Japan
Naniwaya, located in Osaka, has been a favorite among locals for its inventive mochi creations. The store is well-known for its taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean), but their mochi is equally worth the visit. With a focus on local ingredients, Naniwaya offers mochi that reflects the flavors of Osaka.
Must-Try: The kinako mochi, dusted with roasted soybean flour, is a must-try for those seeking a nutty, savory-sweet flavor that’s perfectly paired with green tea.
10. Fugetsu-Do – Los Angeles, California, USA
Located in LA’s Little Tokyo, Fugetsu-Do is a family-owned mochi shop that has been in operation since 1903. Known for its colorful mochi and manju, Fugetsu-Do continues to create mochi that brings together Japanese tradition and modern tastes. Their mochi is soft, chewy, and delicately flavored, offering something for everyone.
Must-Try: The rainbow dango (skewered mochi balls in multiple colors) is not only visually stunning but also delicious, making it a popular choice for both children and adults.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional Japanese sweets or looking for a modern twist on this beloved treat, these top mochi stores offer something for every palate. From classic red bean-filled mochi to inventive mochi ice creams, each store provides a unique take on the timeless art of mochi-making. If you’re a mochi lover or simply curious about this delightful dessert, these shops are worth exploring for an authentic and delicious experience.
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