#Japan #Tokyo #Afternoon Tea #Traditional Sweets #Colombin

Colombin's Classic Afternoon Tea

Kicking off in the new year, on January 1, 2026, Colombin, renowned for its historical and beloved sweets, will unveil the "Classic Colombin Afternoon Tea" at its Harajuku salon. For those unfamiliar, Colombin is a confectionery company with its heart in Shibuya, Tokyo, where it has remained a staple of traditional Japanese dessert culture for over 101 years. This special afternoon tea is a romantic homage to its rich history, featuring signature treats like the "Premium Apple Pie," the creamy "Butter Cream Cake," and the refreshing "Bavarois Elite."

Discover the Legacy of Colombin's Sweets

Each dessert on the menu not only tantalizes the taste buds but also tells a story of its creation and the love poured into its recipe. Guests will have the pleasure of sampling an assortment of classic sweets compiled into an elegant tiered display.

Upper Tier Treats:

• - Gâteau au Beurre: This signature butter cream cake has been a customer favorite since 1924, made with a rich sponge infused with egg yolk and lovingly topped with a refined butter cream that melts in the mouth.
• - Premium Apple Pie: A testament to Colombin's excellence, this dessert has been cherished by patrons since the beginning. A famous anecdote involves the former Crown Prince enjoying the pie at the Ginza store in 1952, giving it the affectionate nickname "Denka's Apple Pie."
• - Bavarois Elite: A sophisticated creation layered over moist sponge with strawberries, its perfect balance makes it a nostalgic favorite for many.
• - Harajuku Honey Premium Marble Cake: Since the 1950s, this cake has evolved with time, now enriched with Harajuku honey for a delightful moistness and deep flavor.

Lower Tier Savories:

• - Gratin and Croque Monsieur: These heartier offerings have maintained their spot on the menu for over half a century. The Croque Monsieur is layered with ham and fresh tomatoes, encased in a crispy cheese crust, while the Gratin is genuinely splendid, using premium ingredients like sea urchin in its rich white sauce.
• - Potato Salad and Mini Salad: These salads provide refreshing contrasts to the delightful treats above, ensuring a balanced afternoon experience.

Pricing and Details

The Classic Colombin Afternoon Tea is priced at ¥3,800 (inclusive of tax) and is available for a 90-minute experience. The tea service includes two beverages, with options ranging from red/white wine, coffee, various teas, to refreshing orange juice. The limited-time offering runs from January 1 to January 28, 2026.

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating. They can be made via phone or in person at the Colombin Harajuku salon. Be sure to book before noon on the day of your visit, as same-day reservations are accepted for one person or more.

Visiting the Colombin Harajuku Salon

Located in the heart of Harajuku at 6-34-14 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo, the salon is easily accessible within walking distance from the Meiji-Jingu-Mae and Harajuku metro stations. With a serene ambiance and both indoor and outdoor seating, guests can enjoy their afternoon tea in style. The salon operates daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in a piece of history.

If you're looking for a delightful culinary experience this new year, Colombin's Classic Afternoon Tea promises a blend of nostalgia, warmth, and unforgettable flavors that celebrate over a century of culinary artistry.