Shio Onigiri and Miso-Yaki Onigiri × BONGEN LATTE

― A Unique Pairing of Japanese Simplicity and Modern Coffee Culture ―

Onigiri: The Soul of Japanese Food Culture

Onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, are one of Japan’s most iconic traditional foods. Simple in form yet rich in meaning, they embody the essence of Japanese cuisine: rice, salt, and care. From the humble shio onigiri (salted rice ball) to more elaborate versions, onigiri has always been about celebrating the flavor of rice itself.

Among the many varieties, shio onigiri and miso-yaki onigiri stand out for their simplicity and depth. Shio onigiri highlights the sweetness of rice and the purity of salt, while miso-yaki onigiri adds savory richness and smoky aroma. When paired with the BONGEN LATTE, these traditional flavors reveal an entirely new cultural experience.

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The Character of BONGEN LATTE

The BONGEN LATTE is one of BONGENCOFFEE’s signature drinks and represents the harmony of strength and elegance.

・House-Roasted Beans
Carefully roasted at the SHIRAFUSHI Roastery in Ginza, the espresso base delivers depth, balance, and complexity.

・Rich Yet Gentle
A bold espresso softened by silky steamed milk creates a latte that is both powerful and approachable.

・Japanese Aesthetic Space
Enjoyed in a café decorated with bonsai and natural textures, the BONGEN LATTE becomes more than a drink—it becomes a cultural moment.

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Shio Onigiri × BONGEN LATTE

Shio onigiri, seasoned only with salt, brings out the natural sweetness of rice.

・Flavor Balance
The gentle sweetness of rice pairs beautifully with the bold bitterness of espresso.

・The Role of Salt
The clean saltiness sharpens the palate and enhances the latte’s creamy texture.

・A Cultural Harmony
Together, they create an unexpected yet harmonious pairing that transcends East and West.

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Miso-Yaki Onigiri × BONGEN LATTE

Miso-yaki onigiri, grilled rice balls brushed with miso, carry a smoky aroma and deep umami.

・Charred Notes and Espresso Roast
The roasted miso echoes the espresso’s own roasted character, amplifying both flavors.

・Umami and Creaminess
The savory miso contrasts with the latte’s milkiness, creating a surprisingly gentle aftertaste.

・Tradition Meets Modern Coffee
Rooted in Edo-period street food, miso-yaki onigiri gains a new identity when paired with specialty coffee.

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A New Café Experience

Pairing onigiri with the BONGEN LATTE is not just about taste—it’s about cultural discovery.

・For Japanese guests: a familiar comfort food enjoyed in a new, modern way.

・For international visitors: a chance to experience Japanese food culture beyond sushi or ramen, in a uniquely innovative café style.

This is a pairing that embodies BONGENCOFFEE’s mission: bridging Japanese tradition with contemporary coffee culture.

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Conclusion

Shio Onigiri and Miso-Yaki Onigiri × BONGEN LATTE create a pairing that is simple, authentic, and deeply memorable. The purity of rice and salt, the umami of miso, and the richness of a house-roasted latte come together in perfect harmony.

This is not just food and drink—it is a Ginza-exclusive experience where Japan’s culinary heritage meets the sophistication of modern specialty coffee.

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https://ginza-bongen.jp/