We will introduce you to the best brownie we have tried in Japan, East42st New York Brownie in Kyoto, as well as Shorenin Monzeki-mae TSUKIOKA, a Kaiseki-style Japanese cuisine that introduced us to the brownie shop that is now our must-eat whenever we visit Kyoto.
*We are not sponsored or in any way related to the places mentioned
East42st New York Brownie
604-8115 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward,
Kariganecho, 373番地 みよいビル 1階,
Japan
At the end of our course at Shorenin Monzeki-mae TSUKIOKA (more about restaurant Tsukioka below), we were handed a bag, which was designed and hand-drawn by the chef individually. Inside the bag was an assortment box of brownies from East42st New York Brownie.
As someone who did not particularly like brownies, I did not expect much; however, I would have to say that I was genuinely impressed by the taste of practically every flavor in the box. From then on, everyone we have had try this brownie has voiced their liking for it.
The Taste & Texture
A perfect amount of richness and consistency that is not too thick or stuck to the teeth, but one that can be enjoyed and distinguish between the flavors and components inside. A well-balanced mixture. Its origin came from Manhattan, New York, and the recipe is said to be well-renowned amongst the chefs there.
We recommend you try the assortment of flavors on your first visit; we enjoyed all. Each flavor profile is designed more subtly; it reflects the essence of the flavor without being overpowering.
To illustrate, it is one that you can clearly tell what the star of each piece is through a well-blended taste note that keeps the brownie’s quality intact; for example, a lemon flavor that is more on the aromatic side, with a subtle hint of sourness that enhances the flavor rather than becoming the main flavor.
Our Favourite Flavors
- Mellow
- White amber
- Strawberry
- Rich (for those who like richer flavor)
- Shiokochi (a mild salty take on brownie)
If you like to better feel the chocolateness of the brownie, we recommend going for the bigger triangular piece; we find that the larger piece offers more satisfaction in that regard. If you have the time, enjoy a freshly-made one in the cafe, served with ice cream.
A Perfect Gift
The brownies at East42st New York Brownie have become our choice of souvenir; the customizability and portion size make them the perfect gift! There are different box sizes, and you can choose the flavor.
For those who are interested in cafes and places to be around, we recommend visiting our suggestion in the area between Toyooka and Kyotamba, a town on the outer skirt of Kyoto Prefecture, the places we went to before arriving here.
Nearby:
- Miru Kyoto Nishiki (Hotel): coincidentally, we were staying the night at this hotel, which is only a block away from the shop.
- It is also located near the famous Nishiki Market.
Shorenin Monzeki-mae TSUKIOKA
16-2 Awadaguchi Sanjobocho,
Higashiyama Ward,
Kyoto, 605-0035, Japan
We discovered this restaurant as part of an Amex recommendation, which was eligible for the American Express Platinum Dining Credit that year.
An incredible meal, flavors of the seasons with a mix of character of Japan’s prefectural cuisine.
The dining experience and the interior of the restaurant brought an elusive dive into a space where you are immersed in the ingredients of Japan. The pottery, plates, and bowls here have a history of their own, an antique from the past; for those who appreciate this type of art, it may be an even more intriguing experience for you.
One of the dishes served during our experience in early autumn was Heshiko, a popular fermented fish dish in Fukui, which is a neighboring prefecture to Kyoto. One we tried during our visit to Kumagawa-Juku, a post town on the border of Fukui, part of the Saba Kaido that used to transport seafood to Kyoto during the Edo period.
We will let the photos of the food tell a portion of the course we are most impressed with.
Note: Meals are subject to seasonal changes.
