A Kyoto-based coffee shop is moving into Yorkdale mall, true to its globally-minded mission: to see the world through coffee. This location is the first of two set to open in Toronto, with another spot at Union Station scheduled for later in the year.
Construction is currently underway inside the former David’s Tea storefront, with tentative plans to open later this month according to a Retail Insider article from last October.
The Founder and Creative Director of % Arabica, Kenneth Shoji, grew up immersed in different cultures. He spent his childhood flying from one country to the next with his parents, who were often going abroad for business trips and vacations – dragging him along for the ride.
These trips helped shape his view of the world and after graduating high school he moved to Venice Beach, California to attend college and indulge in the hippie beach culture of the early 90s. While he was there, Starbucks exploded onto the scene, expanding rapidly. Shoji dove into unique coffee culture, spending a lot of time in various Starbucks shops.
After graduating and working as a trader for a few years, he had a revelation. He wanted to live more simply and travel with his children in the way his parents had with him. Oh, and coffee. He knew he needed a good cup of coffee, every day. That part was non-negotiable. And so, % Arabica was born.
With a loan, he bought a coffee farm in Hawaii and began trading green beans from around the world, becoming the sole-exporter of a Japanese roasting machine and distributor of highly sought after espresso machines. Then, in September 2014, Shoji opened the flagship store in the historic city of Kyoto, Japan.
% Arabica is part of what the industry calls “third wave” coffee, a movement in coffee marketing emphasizing high quality. Beans are typically sourced from individual farms and roasted more lightly to bring out their distinctive flavours. Shoji and % Arabica are steadfast in bringing this unique, exclusive coffee drinking experience to the entire world. They are expanding across the globe, from Bahrain to the United States and beyond – with no signs of slowing down.
Coffee aficionados can grab the usual espresso-based sips in addition to Spanish, Honey, Dark and Matcha Lattes. Non-caffeinated lemonades and juices are also available for those who want to experience the vibe of the space but aren’t necessarily looking for a caffeinated pick-me-up.
The shop also sells accessories online and in-store in bright white, minimalist designs featuring the “%” logo in black. We can only assume the interior of the Yorkdale space will echo this airy and sleek feel. Think: long, clean lines and modern colourways complemented by natural wood finishes. The decor leaves room for the real star of the show: the coffee itself.
