You can transport to the streets of Japan without leaving the GTA, thanks to Daigyo Cafe, North York‘s newest dessert spot. Inspired by traditional Japanese culture, the space itself is designed to make visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into an authentic tea house, complete with paper lanterns that brighten up the nighttime vibe. And, of course, it’s brimming with delicious desserts to enjoy.
Starting July 1, Daigyo will offer two desserts inspired by Japanese folklore to late-night dessert lovers in the area. From 6 p.m. onward, the Shizuki Kitsune and the Hatsuki Neko, both traditional and wrapped in unique sleeves, will be available to try.
Shizuki Kitsune is crafted with dragon fruit yuzu ice cream and topped with sesame and dragon fruit mochi to add texture to the refreshing treat. The press release notes that “it was inspired by the 9-tailed kitsune,
known for protecting both the spirit world as well as worshippers with its vibrant purple flames. According to Japanese legend, these clever foxes were human by day and foxes by night, hence why the ice cream, can only be
ordered in the evening.”
Hatsuki Neko is made with a black sugar crystal jelly base and then topped with matcha ice cream. The treat is finished with dried peach flakes and a rice cracker shaped as a cat paw for a playful, sweet dessert. It is inspired by the Japanese folklore character neko. “Besides being beloved pets, in Japan, cats are also believed to have protective abilities while bringing good luck and fortune to those around them, especially if they show you their paws,” the release explains. “Similar to the foxes, these cats can only be seen in the woods after dark.”
“We are fans of Japanese culture, and Spirited Away is one of my favourite movies. Therefore, we used Japanese
folklore as inspiration for our summer-special desserts. Since kitsune is a symbol of good harvests, we also hope
every customer will be blessed with great prosperity,” Jason Wang, one of Daigyo’s owners, says in the release. “We also hope to bring Torontonians some excitement by offering dragon fruit and yuzu flavoured ice cream, which you don’t usually see anywhere. It’s something totally different for the summer!” adds Grace Han, Daigyo’s co-owner.
Daigyo Cafe is located at 4909 Yonge St.