# Have You Ever Tried Japanese Purin?
Purin, which translates to pudding, is basically Japanese crème caramel or flan, crafted with the meticulous accuracy that defines all culinary pleasures in Japan. Known by several titles such as caramel custard, egg pudding, or caramel pudding, purin is a fantastically delightful dessert that enchants the taste buds.
## What is Purin?
To grasp purin, we need to explore Japan’s historical link with yōgashi, or Western confections. This journey started in the 16th century with the Portuguese, leading to the rise of castella sponge cake (kasutera), a classic omiyage (edible souvenir) from Nagasaki. As Western sweets gained popularity, dessert recipes based on vanilla custard, notably purin, became particularly cherished.
The term “purin,” sourced from the English word “pudding,” was initially considered a luxury due to the limited supply of dairy following World War II. However, as dairy became more widespread, purin began appearing in a variety of contexts, from upscale purin à la mode in hotels to convenient plastic cups in combini (convenience stores). The well-known Pucchin Purin, packaged in ribbed plastic cups, has been a Japanese staple since the early 1970s, similar to chocolate Snack Packs in North America.
## Purin’s Devoted Following
Purin is extremely popular in Japan, leading to a plethora of flavored snacks, chocolates, candies, and ice creams. There’s even a Sanrio character called Pompompurin, a plump golden retriever with a caramel beret. The adoration for purin is so significant that a massive “king pudding” gelatin mix exists, allowing fans to create their own purin at home.
As a nostalgic treat, purin has recently gained trendy status, boasting a cult following with dedicated Instagram accounts, long queues, and premium purins that sell out rapidly. Its charm lies in its adaptability, found in both budget-friendly grocery store options and luxurious purin boutiques. Crafting purin at home is also a well-liked pursuit.
Purin appeals to both the young and old, making it a vital part of Japanese culture, much like ramen, sushi, and shokupan (Japanese bread). This cultural relevance propelled my search for the finest purin in Tokyo, fueled by my sincere love for this delightful dessert.
## Our Quest for the Ideal Purin
Throughout our stay in Japan, my partner Mike and I embarked on a purin journey, visiting numerous cafés and shops. My passion for purin grew as I savored convenience store varieties and found a lovely illustrated book dedicated to Tokyo’s renowned puddings.
Equipped with this purin guide and the assistance of Google Translate, I developed a purin map, aiming to hit several purin locations daily. I quickly realized that purin is a competitive pursuit in Japan, with limited stock leading to rapid sellouts.
### 4/4 Seasons Coffee
Situated in Shinjuku, 4/4 Seasons Coffee is famous for its purin, which was the first featured in my purin book. The purin, characterized by its rich caramel and velvety texture, is topped with whipped cream and a cherry, offering a blend of nostalgia and modernity.
– **Ambience:** 4/5
– **Location/Ease:** 3/5
– **Taste:** 4.5/5
– **Aesthetics:** 5/5
– **Address:** 4/4 Seasons Coffee, 2-7-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0022
### Baku Coffee Roasters
Baku is a charming coffee shop known for its specialty beans. The purin served here is creamy and firm, presented on rustic pottery, reflecting simplicity and delight.
– **Ambience:** 4/5
– **Location/Ease:** 3.5/5
– **Taste:** 3.5/5
– **Aesthetics:** 2.5/5
– **Address:** Baku Coffee Roasters, 1-21-11 Tomioka, Koto, Tokyo 135-0047
### Dixans Jimbocho
Dixans Jimbocho offers purin presented in a ceramic skillet, paired with amaretto cream. This purin is smooth and fulfilling, ideal for anyone desiring a café atmosphere.
– **Ambience:** 4/5
– **Location/Ease:** 3/5
– **Taste:** 3.5/5
– **Aesthetics:** 4/5
– **Address:** Dixans Jimbocho, 1-24 Kanda Jinbocho, Chiyoda, Tokyo 101-0051
### Egg Baby Cafe
Renowned for its egg-based dishes, Egg Baby Cafe offers a slice of purin that is smooth and sweet.