#Japan #Tokyo #Wako #Chocolate Parfait #SHIKI Parfait

Experience the Essence of Autumn with Wako's New SHIKI Parfait -AKI-

From September 1 to November 30, Wako, a renowned chocolatier based in Ginza, Tokyo, introduces its third seasonal delight: the SHIKI Parfait -AKI-.

Wako has been a pioneer in the chocolate scene since opening its shop in 1988. For over 35 years, they have maintained their traditional flavors and production methods in their own atelier. This passion for chocolate now culminates in their seasonal SHIKI Parfait series, designed to celebrate the changing flavors of nature.

The SHIKI Parfait -AKI- is a luxurious dessert that expertly combines the rich bitterness of chocolate cream with caramelized pears, infused with liqueur. This parfait elevates the flavor profile with the addition of hearty Japanese chestnuts, creating a refined taste, perfect for adults. The chocolate ice cream is crafted from cacao harvested within 60 days, ensuring maximum aroma, while the use of sustainable cacao husks in the cacao jelly adds a unique twist. Nestled within this beautifully layered creation, one can savor a harmonious blend of autumn tastes and textures, enticing all five senses. Alongside this, Wako's first-floor chocolate and cake shop will also debut the SHIKI Chocolat Fre –AKI–.

A Closer Look: SHIKI Parfait -AKI-

At the top of the parfait, you’ll find two types of ice cream resting atop rich chocolate cream, accented with nutty chestnuts and vibrant autumn leaves, celebrating the essence of the season. Beneath this, layers of house-made chestnut cream and vanilla ice cream add creaminess, while a surprise crunch of chocolate gives a delightful textural contrast.

The base of the parfait features a subtly tart cacao husk jelly enhancing the diverse chocolate flavors and textures. The caramelized pears provide a tangy twist that pulls the entire composition together, allowing diners to relish the lingering taste of autumn with each bite.

The SHIKI Chocolat Fre –AKI–

On the same timeline, from September 1 to November 30, Wako will launch two exquisite chocolate treats:
1. Châtaigne Kinton: A chocolate inspired by the traditional Japanese sweet, featuring a luxurious combination of Kumamoto chestnut paste in a delicately crafted ganache that brings forth the essence of chestnuts with a blend of milk and white chocolate.
2. Caramel Poire: This sophisticated chocolate showcases a blend of pear puree and liqueur, with a glorious caramel center. Each bite offers the gentle sweetness of caramel, followed by the rich, fruity aroma of pear—as a delectable harmony lingers on the palate.

Meet the Chefs Behind the New Creations

Yudai Ono – Head Pastry Chef
A graduate of culinary school, Ono began his journey at Patisserie La Vie Douce in 2013 and was soon appointed pastry chef at the Michelin-starred Okagawara House. He joined Wako as a sous chef before rising to head pastry chef by 2024. His awards include a bronze at the Japan Cake Show for sugar craft.

Nana Iioka – Sous Chef Chocolatier
A graduate of Tsujicho Ecole Ducasse, Iioka worked at InterContinental Tokyo Bay from 2016 to 2022. She had notable achievements, including winning the first place in the Lucca Grand Premium 2020 and the excellence award in the BUKO cream cheese contest in 2018.

Visiting Wako Annex

Located at 4-4-8 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Wako Annex can be easily accessed from the B1 exit of Ginza Station. The second-floor tea salon operates from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM—last orders at 6:30 PM on Sundays and holidays—while the first-floor cake & chocolate shop operates until 7:30 PM, and until 7:00 PM on Sundays and holidays. Enjoy delicious offerings in a delightful setting, open year-round except for New Year’s holidays.

For more details, visit Wako's Official Website. Follow their gourmet Instagram for mouthwatering updates: @gourmet_wako_ginza_tokyo.

Indulge in Wako's flavors this autumn—you won’t be disappointed!