At Café 1894, located within the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum in Tokyo's Marunouchi district, patrons can delight in a special afternoon tea inspired by the stunning landscapes and culinary traditions of Northern Italy. This seasonal offering runs from September 24 to October 15, 2026, coinciding with the exhibition titled
'Fontanesi: Light of Italy, Landscape of the Heart', starting on October 17, 2026.
The afternoon tea celebrates the Italian painter Antonio Fontanesi, who came to Japan during the Meiji era as a foreign adviser and taught Western painting. He spent his later years in Turin, a city renowned for its hazelnuts and truffles, and this menu is designed to reflect the flavors, landscapes, and culture of Northern Italy, infused with the unique touch of Café 1894.
Afternoon Tea Menu Highlights
The afternoon tea is an exquisite presentation of Italian flavors, served alongside an alcohol-free sparkling toast to set the mood. The menu is thoughtfully divided into three plates:
1st Plate: Desserts
- - Hazelnut and Chocolate Mont Blanc Tart: A signature dessert at Café 1894, this tart combines the rich flavors of hazelnuts and chocolate, paying homage to the Mont Bianco of the Alps, while delivering a delightful and aromatic experience.
- - White Tiramisu: A modern twist on the classic dessert, this variant promises to satiate those with a love for creamy textures.
- - Apricot and Pistachio Cake: This cake brilliantly marries the gentle sourness of apricots with the rich undertones of pistachios.
- - Macedonia: A refreshing fruit salad made with blueberries, raspberries, and blood orange, dressed in a syrup and garnished with mint for a crisp finish.
2nd Plate: Baked Goods
- - Plain Scones: Served warm, these are complemented with white fig jam and whipped salt butter for a flavorful twist.
- - Vanilla Macarons: Sweet and delicate, these macarons are bound to please any dessert lover.
- - Chocolate Salami with Orange Peel and Nuts: This traditional Italian treat disguises nuts and biscuits within chocolate to resemble salami.
3rd Plate: Savory Foods
Incorporating the essence of a Northern Italian picnic, this plate features:
- - Focaccia Sandwich with Ham Blanc and Tonato Sauce: A delectable sandwich showcasing Italian flavors.
- - Dried Tomato and Basil Frittata: Brimming with flavors that bring a taste of Italy to life.
- - Truffle-Flavored Rice Croquettes: A delightful crunchy exterior with a creamy interior, honoring the rich culinary traditions of Northern Italy.
Enjoying the Experience
This experience is more than just a meal; it invites guests to bask in the peaceful surroundings of Northern Italy, albeit in the heart of Tokyo. The afternoon tea service operates in two time slots of 15:00 and 15:30, allowing guests to choose a convenient time to savor the delights.
Each plate is designed to enhance the enjoyment of the exhibitions on display, allowing patrons to indulge in a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Practical Information
- - Booking Details: Made through the Café 1894 website or via phone, starting September 7, 2026. Reservations require a minimum of two people and must be made two days in advance.
- - Pricing: The experience is priced at 6,000 yen per person (tax included).
Nestled in an atmosphere that reflects the elegance of the Meiji era, Café 1894 offers a charming setting for an afternoon escape. The museum, which opened in 2010, is a short walk from Tokyo Station and features a blend of classic and contemporary designs. For more details, visit the official website or call 03-3212-7156.
This unique afternoon tea aligns beautifully with the impending exhibition on Fontanesi, offering a rare opportunity to appreciate art and culinary excellence in unison.
Upcoming Exhibition
The exhibition titled
'Fontanesi: Light of Italy, Landscape of the Heart' will run from October 17, 2026, to January 24, 2027. This exhibition aims to explore Fontanesi's impact on Japanese painters and his artistic journey, including works from various periods of his career. Don't miss this chance to experience the confluence of art and culture at the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum.