In a delightful twist for coffee lovers, RISTRETTO & CROISSANT LABORATORIO (R&CL) in Jiyugaoka, Tokyo, is unveiling a unique beverage experience with the launch of its "Cracking Latte." This innovative drink, which has become a viral sensation on social media in countries like Korea and China, will officially debut on August 7, 2026. R&CL, part of the Saint Marc Holdings group, is dedicated to exploring and experimenting with the possibilities of croissants, presenting a menu that merges various global culinary influences.
The Cracking Latte offers a novel interaction that sets it apart from traditional coffee beverages. Customers are encouraged to crack the chocolate-coated cup with their hands, creating a satisfying break that releases the rich flavors of a creamy cafe latte hidden inside. This visually engaging drinking experience not only appeals to the taste buds but also invites customers to capture the moment for their Instagram and TikTok feeds, where videos of the breaking process have already garnered significant attention.
Furthermore, the Cracking Latte is not merely about the cracking; it combines 58% cacao couverture chocolate with a smooth latte made from fresh milk, creating a harmonious balance of rich cocoa notes and the natural sweetness of the milk. Priced at 720 JPY (792 JPY including tax for in-store), this drink is set to create a stir among coffee aficionados and casual drinkers alike.
In addition to the Cracking Latte, R&CL will also debut new summer menu items, including a new flavor of their popular "Sliders Croissant" topped with spicy cod roe butter, and refreshing iced drinks like iced matcha latte and iced hojicha latte. Each item not only elevates the menu but also caters to different tastes and occasions, making it a versatile choice for customers.
New Summer Offerings:
- - Spicy Cod Roe Butter Sliders Croissant: A crispy croissant topped with 100% New Zealand fresh milk butter blended with spicy cod roe mayonnaise, providing a delightful burst of flavor for 390 JPY (421 JPY including tax for takeout).
- - Iced Matcha Latte: Using high-quality matcha powder mixed with wasanbon sugar, this drink emphasizes the rich flavor of matcha, enhanced by creamy milk, available for 720 JPY (792 JPY including tax).
- - Iced Hojicha Latte: Combining the aromatic flavors of roasted green tea with milk, this refreshing drink offers subtle sweetness, also priced at 720 JPY (792 JPY including tax).
R&CL continues to develop products inspired by international flavors, cultural backgrounds, and traditional ingredients, merging them all into one shape—the croissant. This ongoing pursuit of culinary excellence aims to surprise and delight customers with every visit, making their croissants not just a pastry but an exploration of new possibilities.
Store Information:
RISTRETTO & CROISSANT LABORATORIO aims to provide a luxurious atmosphere filled with the rich aromas of freshly baked croissants and exquisite cafe lattes, prepared with specialty espresso extraction methods. Signature offerings include a French-style "Chocolat Chaud" where customers dip croissants into hot chocolate, and the "Magic," a popular drink from Melbourne enhancing the essence of coffee with just a hint of milk.
Located at 2-15-4 Jiyugaoka, Meguro, Tokyo, the café is conveniently situated within a two-minute walk from the Tokyu Toyoko Line's Jiyugaoka Station. Operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with a seating capacity of 39 inside and 19 on the terrace (pets allowed only on the terrace).
The continued evolution of R&CL promises exciting new experiences and tastes that redefine our expectations of croissants and coffee, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors in Jiyugaoka. Connect with them on their
official website, and follow their journey on
Instagram and
Facebook.