The Story of an Italian Café

The historic establishment “Al Bicerin” in Turin is an institution recognized throughout Italy and cherished for its elegant, welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1763, the café has hosted many notable figures over the centuries, including Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour (politician and statesman, one of the fathers of Italian unification), Alexandre Dumas Père (French writer known for works like The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers), Friedrich Nietzsche (famous German philosopher), Umberto Eco (a prominent contemporary writer), composer Giacomo Puccini, and King Umberto II of Italy.

During the 19th century, “Al Bicerin” became a gathering place for artists, intellectuals, and politicians. This strengthened its role as a cultural landmark in the city. To this day, the café retains its original charm, with furnishings and decorations that evoke the era in which it was founded.

The Setting of Turin

The city of Turin, located in the northwestern region of Piedmont, was Italy’s first capital from 1861 to 1865. Known for its crucial role in the country’s economic development, Turin became an industrial powerhouse. This was mainly possible thanks to the presence of companies such as the automobile manufacturer FIAT, Olivetti (famous for typewriters and early computers), and Lavazza (a renowned coffee producer).

Though it has since lost its economic and administrative preeminence, Turin remains a central hub for several industries, including automotive and wine production. Additionally, the city stands out for its focus on design and technological innovation, continuing to serve as an important cultural and industrial center in Italy.

How to Enjoy the “Bicerin”

The most iconic drink at the café is the eponymous Bicerin, a delightful mix of three elements: hot chocolate, espresso coffee, and milk cream. Evolving from a beverage first created in the 1700s, the recipe includes artisanal dark chocolate, which at the time was a novelty imported from the Americas and considered a luxury reserved for a select few. The Bicerin comes in a glass (hence the name, “bicchierino” in Piedmontese), allowing the drinker to see its distinct layers. To best enjoy the drink better not mixing the layers, letting the components blend directly on the palate with their varied densities, temperatures, and flavors.

Where to Find Bicerin in Japan

There are several locations of “Al Bicerin” in Japan. Each one replicates the charm of the original Turin café, with interiors faithfully recreating the historic ambiance. Large gilded mirrors, vintage prints, and retro chandeliers create a warm and elegant setting.

Current locations include:

• Bicerin HANKYU MEN’S TOKYO
  〒100-8488 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Yurakucho, 2-5-1 B1
• Bicerin GINZA SIX
  〒104-0061 Tokyo, Chuo City, Ginza, 6−10−1 GINZA SIX B2
• Bicerin SHINJUKU TAKASHIMAYA
  〒151-0051 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Sendagaya, 5−24−2 F3
• KASUMIGASEKI CTR. GOVT. BLDG.2
  〒100-8926 Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kasumigaseki, 2−1−2 2F
• Bicerin MIDLAND SQUARE
  〒450-0002 Aichi, Nagoya, Nakamura Ward, Meieki, 4-7-1 Midland Square 2F
• Bicerin HANKYU UMEDA
  〒530-0017 Osaka, Kita Ward, Kakudacho, 8−7 4F
• Bicerin HAKATA HANKYU
  〒812-0012 Fukuoka, Hakata Ward, Hakataekichuogai, 1−1 5F

For a full list, visit: https://bicerin.co.jp/cafeshop

Menu

At Bicerin locations in Japan, the menu varies slightly depending on the locale. Patrons can typically enjoy a delicious coffee paired with a slice of the cake of the day.

Naturally, the famous Bicerin drink is available, served with the same attention to detail that defines the original café in Turin.

A lunch menu is also available, sometimes featuring pasta and sandwiches, occasionally adapted to suit local tastes.

Italy-Japan Connections

One unique feature of the Japanese Bicerin locations is the attention to detail in preparing gift packages for sweets sold onsite. These are adorned with the traditional mizuhiki knot, a decorative element symbolizing good fortune and connection between people.

For their refinement and cultural connection between Italy and Japan, Bicerin products have been selected as official gifts during events such as the G7 Summit in Ise-Shima in 2016, the G20 in Osaka in 2019, and the G7 in Hiroshima in 2023. At these events, typical sweets like financiers made with organic lemons from Hiroshima were presented.

A further link between Italian tradition and local specialties is represented by the use of Okinawa coffee, known for its quality and delicate flavor. This coffee is sustainably grown without pesticides, with only ripe beans harvested by hand.

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