Dessert enthusiasts living in Japan may be surprised to find that the first Google search result for "Tokyo lamington" is not an outlet in the city, but rather the website of a Sydney-based artisan bakery redefining the humble Australian treat.
Despite the flagship store's location, however, Tokyo Lamington has significant links with Japan. Its concept was dreamt up by founders Eddie Stewart and Min Chai while running the N2 Brunch Club in the Tokyo business district of Nihonbashi, where they began experimenting in the kitchen by infusing the nostalgic square cakes with unique flavors.
Opened by the pair in 2018, the cafe serves staple Australian brunch items such as avocado toast and seasonal hotcakes with lamingtons also on the menu. The concept of creating a specialty store for the modest dessert, however, was originally planned for Tokyo.