What is the difference between third-wave coffee?
The trend emphasizing quality, like Blue Bottle Coffee, is called the "third wave." It features "single-origin" coffee, which uses a single source or a limited number of coffee farms without blending beans. It doesn't mass-roast, and it's carefully brewed to serve fresh coffee. While second-wave coffees like Starbucks Coffee and Tully's Coffee use dark roast beans and focus on espressos and lattes, Blue Bottle Coffee uses light roasts. At the press preview on March 7, I tried the "African Blend," a blend of two Ethiopian and one Congolese coffee, and enjoyed its pure flavor with a fruity aroma. Those accustomed to dark roasts may find it a bit bland and acidic.
The cafe's flagship Aoyama store boasts a simple, open space with minimalist decor. The cafe has an interesting layout, allowing you to choose your seating depending on your purpose and speed, with standing, high stool counter seating, and table seating. The food menu, including beignets and poached eggs, is also high quality and delicious. With the arrival of Blue Bottle Coffee, Japan's coffee boom is spreading even further. Why not take this opportunity to find a cup of coffee that suits your style?