#Japan #Shibuya #Afternoon Tea #Christmas Menu #Aomori Apples

Afternoon Tea's New Christmas Offerings

Afternoon Tea, operated by Ivy Company Ltd. based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has launched a delightful new menu inspired by apples, perfect for the upcoming Christmas season. Starting November 13, the charming tea room will present three exceptional items: the "Apple Zucotto Shortcake Christmas Plate," "Fruitade Tea Apple," and the "Fresh Aomori Apple Galette." Each dish celebrates the sweetness of apples, especially from Aomori, one of Japan's most renowned apple-producing regions.

Exciting New Menu Items

This year, the menu focuses on apples, believed to be the origin of Christmas trees and ornaments. The centerpiece, the "Apple Zucotto Shortcake Christmas Plate," features a fluffy sponge cake filled with cinnamon-flavored apple filling, chocolate chips, and almond-infused Zucotto cream, topped with homemade apple compote made from locally sourced Aomori apples. To complete the plate, the dessert is accompanied by shoe-shaped rusks crafted to resemble apples, offering both taste and a festive presentation.

Further enhancing the holiday spirit, the "Fruitade Tea Apple" blends aromatic apple tea with a chunky apple sauce and homemade apple compote, bringing vibrant flavors and a hint of rosemary scent to the warm beverage. Diners can also indulge in the "Fresh Aomori Apple Galette," a simple yet delicious pastry wrapped in a buttery dough, ideal for highlighting the natural sweetness of the fresh apples. Additional Christmas-themed sweets will also be available throughout the season, promising treats that redefine holiday indulgence.

Limited Edition Advent Calendar and Stollen

In the spirit of the season, Afternoon Tea proudly introduces a beautifully designed Advent calendar, filled with 24 different teas for daily enjoyment as Christmas approaches. Dubbed the “Book of Christmas Calendar Tea,” this special offering transforms tea-time into an enchanting countdown to Christmas Eve. Each day presents a unique tea variety, ensuring that festive anticipation is accompanied by delightful flavors.

Moreover, they will offer a limited quantity of the “Apple Stollen,” a traditional German bread made richer with apples, oranges, and raisins soaked in liquor, all baked to a moist perfection. This special Stollen, like the Advent calendar, will feature exclusive packaging depicting Christmas wreaths, making it a perfect gift.

Aomori Apples: A Seasonal Highlight

Aomori Prefecture is renowned, producing around 60% of Japan’s apple crop, and is celebrated for its commitment to excellence in apple cultivation. The unique climate, characterized by significant temperature variations, helps produce incredibly juicy and sweet apples, which are the stars of Afternoon Tea’s holiday offerings. The apples boast a robust flavor, further enhanced by meticulous farming techniques passed down through generations.

Limited-Time Offerings for the Holiday Season

New Item: Apple Zucotto Shortcake Christmas Plate
Price: 1,680 yen (tax included)
Availability: November 13 – December 25
Description: Fluffy sponge cake layered with cinnamon-flavored apple filling and Zucotto cream, garnished with homemade apple compote.

New Item: Fruitade Tea Apple
Price: 1,100 yen (tax included)
Availability: November 13 – December 25
Description: A harmonious blend of apple tea, textured apple jelly, and creamy apple compote infused with rosemary.

New Item: Fresh Aomori Apple Galette
Price: 411 yen (tax included)
Availability: November 13 – December 25
Description: Simple pastry showcasing the freshness of Aomori apples, wrapped in a lightly baked dough.

As the holiday excitement builds, Afternoon Tea invites everyone to indulge in these themed offerings that sweeten the Christmas season. Don't miss the chance to experience these festive creations at one of their select locations or through their online store.

Additional Seasonal Offerings

Beyond the apple-centric treats, Afternoon Tea also highlights other seasonal delights such as the rich "Pistachio Chocolate and Hazelnut Cream Gateau" and special versions of Milfeuille. These offerings are available in select shops and are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening treat.

With charming settings, delicious offerings, and a unique blend of tradition and innovation, Afternoon Tea continues to create memorable holiday experiences centered around the joy of tea and delicious baked goods. For further details about the seasonal menu and the charming ambiance of Afternoon Tea locations, visit their official website.