#Japan #Tokyo #Samurai Dream #BARISTA MAP #Lasagna Blend

A Flavorful Innovation: Coffee for Lasagna

In a groundbreaking move towards redefining the culinary experience, Shinsaku Fukayama, the representative of BARISTA MAP Coffee Roasters, has collaborated with COLORS Corporation and Marukome to develop the ultimate coffee blend for lasagna, aptly named LASAGNA BLEND. This innovative blend is set to launch in 2025, aiming to bring coffee pairing into the realm of culinary excellence, where it has often been overshadowed by wine and sake.

The Event and Its Vision

The trio of COLORS Corporation, UCC Coffee Academy, and Marukome will showcase this unique pairing at a special food pairing experience event on July 10-11, 2026, featuring not only the LASAGNA BLEND but also a delectable lasagna made from the rare Mangalica pigs raised in Hokkaido. Fukayama’s vision is clear: to elevate coffee to the same level of culinary appreciation as traditional pairings like wine with food.

Under the theme “Pursuing Michelin-status Coffee,” BARISTA MAP Coffee Roasters aims to disseminate not only the flavors of their coffee but also the cultural richness and hospitality encapsulated within the coffee experience. Fukayama, who is both the 2016 Latte Art World Champion and the first Japanese Champion of the 2018 Australian Barista Championship, will present the LASAGNA BLEND and food pairings that he meticulously designed based on the concept of adapting coffee to complement specific dishes.

On the event days, attendees can look forward to the KOJI BARISTA EDITION soy milk developed by Marukome and enjoy it alongside the exquisite Mangalica lasagna, as well as the milk-based cheesecake crafted in collaboration with KAKA, a popular cheesecake specialty shop in Fukuoka. This is an invitation not only for a delightful cup of coffee but also to explore a new cultural experience through food.

Highlights of the Event

The event promises numerous attractions, including:
1. Experience the New Possibilities of Specialty Coffee: Interactions with experts in coffee, fermentation, and culinary arts, creating experiences that transcend industry boundaries.
2. Exclusive Event-Only Menu: Guests will have the chance to enjoy unique offerings like the Mangalica lasagna made with Koji milk and the Koji milk cheesecake, developed with KAKA cheesecake store.
3. Future Availability: Following the event, LASAGNA BLEND will be available year-round at COLORS CAFE in Ebisu, along with the limited-time Koji milk lasagna and Koji milk cheesecake.

About the LASAGNA BLEND

The LASAGNA BLEND was crafted with meticulous attention to coffee bean roasting to ensure that the coffee's acidity and sweetness create a harmonious pairing with lasagna's layers, creamy béchamel sauce, and rich flavors of cheese and ingredients. The unique blend incorporates Colombian Pink Bourbon beans that offer a jasmine-like acidity paired with Ethiopian beans that introduce a light sweetness. This duo pulls off a delightful harmony that enhances the overall flavor of the lasagna. To achieve this balance, state-of-the-art Stronghold roasters were employed, preserving the vibrancy while enhancing sweetness and texture.

Shinsaku Fukayama reflects on this innovative pairing, stating, "The combination of coffee and lasagna is incredibly fresh. Every element was considered to enhance the creamy flavor of lasagna. The meticulously crafted blend highlights a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, ensuring a delightful experience regardless of how it's served—hot or iced."

About Shinsaku Fukayama

Born in 1983, Fukayama is the representative of BARISTA MAP Coffee Roasters. After winning the Latte Art World Championship in 2016 and becoming the first Japanese champion at the 2018 Australian Barista Championship, he founded Samurai Dream Corporation. Fukayama is also dedicated to training baristas, operating cafes, and product development, planning to open a flagship store in Shinsaibashi in 2025.

For more about his impressive career, visit his profile or follow him on Instagram.

Event Details

The ‘Coffee × Lasagna × Koji Milk’ food pairing experience will be held at UCC Coffee Academy in Akasaka, Tokyo. Media and guests can sign up for the event set for July 10 and 11, 2026. For more information on the event and to book your spot:

• - Part 1
• - Part 2

Join us in this exciting culinary journey as we embrace the future of coffee pairing!

Event Location: UCC Coffee Academy, 1F Sumitomo Realty Aoyama Building, Akasaka 8-5-26, Minato City, Tokyo
Organizers: COLORS Corporation, UCC Coffee Academy, and Marukome Corporation
Cooperation: BARISTA MAP Coffee Roasters