Summers in Tokyo are characterized by extreme humidity to the point where one would be sweating from lifting an arm.  There was never a sweat-free day.  Showers take place throughout the day.  The Japanese government launched an energy saving campaign following its nuclear troubles which led to many stores and trains cutting down on air conditioning, a halt in escalator operation, and a dimmer city.  This meant occasional visits to the ice cream store were a must.

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Cold Stone Creamery is another one of those chains from the west conquering the east.  In Canada, you may have seen co-branded Cold Stone Creamery and Tim Hortons stores.  Yet there was one special thing that separates an experience in Canada from an experience in Japan.  But before we dip into that, let’s talk menu.  The menus I have seen in Canada are similar to the ones in Japan with a few exceptions that cater to local tastes.  You might be able to find interesting combinations such as Greeeeeeeen Tea Party (spelt exactly that way) which has green tea ice cream, sponge cake, whipped cream, and matcha powder.  Feeling for something fruity and rich, I went for a Love It size Cheesecake Fantasy (¥610).

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This is where the special experience begins.  After placing an order, the employees start preparing your ice cream on the frozen granite stone by asking the question, “Can I sing you a song?” to which I answered, yes of course!  It’s not that often where someone asks for permission to sing me a song.  How could I say no?  Before you know it…

It worked.  I had the biggest smile on my face.  After reading up on a few websites, gratuities are what would normally make Cold Stone employees in the Americas sing for you.  But this is Japan – a land where the customer is treated as if they were from the royal family.  There is also no such thing as gratuities.  That is why you have happy singing people.

The ice cream itself was rich with a sweet, cheesecake taste.  The graham crumbs boosted the cheesecake aura and texture.  The frozen berries had a refreshing tang.  Together, the combination was fantastic.  I ordered the ice cream in a waffle bowl (¥60) which I recommend for added crunch and contrast.

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The best part of the experience was probably the singing, at least before I had a taste of the dessert.  If there’s a Cold Stone near you, the ice cream is a good reason to visit the store.  But if you end up in Japan, both the ice cream and singing make for a wonderful treat.  Cheers!

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