#Japan #Tokyo #Chocolate #Strawberry #Minimal

Experience the Delight of Minimal's New Strawberry Chocolate Cake

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Minimal - Bean to Bar Chocolate - has something special in store for dessert lovers. From January 2 to the end of March 2026, the Tokyo-based specialty chocolate shop, led by CEO Takashi Yamashita, will be offering a seasonal marvel: the Gâteau Chocolat Soft – Ichigo Yama Mei. This delightful creation features the rare and fragrant Shihō strawberry, combined with rich chocolate for a truly unforgettable treat.

A Beautifully Crafted Chocolate Cake

This limited-edition cake promises not only a visual feast but also an exquisite taste experience. Topped with dried strawberries and pistachios, the cake’s interior boasts a marble pattern that incorporates the delightful natural sweetness of strawberries into the chocolate batter. Its texture resembles that of a pound cake, forming a unique and pleasurable experience.

As a tribute to the fantastic pairing of strawberries and chocolate, the cake has a layer of chocolate cookie dough that adds a satisfying crunch. The interplay of textures and flavors is sure to captivate anyone who enjoys desserts that tantalize both the palate and the eyes.

Using the Exceptional Shihō Strawberry

The highlight of this Gâteau Chocolat is the use of the notably rare Shihō strawberry, sourced from the Ichigo Yama Mei farm in Kagawa Prefecture. Renowned for its elegant tartness and enticing fragrance, the Shihō strawberry is transformed into a tangy jam that preserves its integral flavor, which is then melded into the cake mixture. For an added touch of luxury, whole dried Shihō strawberries are generously sprinkled on top, enhancing both the presentation and taste.

Flavor Harmony with Fruity Chocolate

Complementing the strawberries are the chocolate cookie layers made from Madagascar cacao beans, whose fruity notes perfectly harmonize with the tartness of the strawberries. The chocolate not only adds depth to the flavor but also provides contrast in texture. Finished with a drizzle of white chocolate and an additional sprinkle of dried strawberries, this cake is a celebration of the beautiful partnership between sweet, tangy strawberries and deep, rich chocolate.

Details on Availability and Pricing

• - Price: ¥3,990 (incl. tax)
• - Availability: January 2, 2026 - March 31, 2026
• - Location: Available exclusively at the Yoyogiu Uehara-store and Azabudai Hills-store.

Meet the Team Behind Minimal

At Minimal, a dedicated team of chocolatiers and pastry chefs works meticulously to create chocolate that is not only delicious but also ethically sourced. They emphasize sustainability, visiting cacao-producing regions and collaborating with local farmers to ensure high-quality beans are used in their products. The result is a line of chocolates and desserts that have received over 103 awards in international competitions, showcasing their commitment to exceptional quality.

Minimal’s Welcoming Spaces

For those looking to enjoy a wider selection of treats, Minimal also features cafes where customers can indulge in coffee, chocolate, and even parfaits. The main store, located in Tomigaya, offers a cozy environment understatedly styled to enhance the artisan quality of their offerings.

Visit Minimal at:

• - Tomigaya Main Store: 2-1-9 Tomigaya, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0063, near Yoyogi Park Station.
• - Yoyogiu Uehara Store: 1-34-5 Uehara, Shibuya, Tokyo, just a short walk from Yoyogiu Uehara Station.
• - Patisserie Minimal: 8-8-24 Kinuta, Setagaya, Tokyo, near Soshi-gaya Ooku Station.
• - Azabudai Hills: 5-8-1 Toranomon, Minato, Tokyo, directly connected to Kamiyacho Station.

With its commitment to quality and community, Minimal seeks to bring masterpieces that blend unforgettable flavors while creating cherished memories with every bite.