This Shinjuku artisan cola business is attempting to create a Japanese version of the world’s most popular soda.
Iyoshi Cola is the only cola artisan in the world from his Tokyo studio to the beaches of the United Kingdom. This is a revolution in cola. As a kingfisher plunging into the water, it’s time to break the mold.
Coca-Cola and Pepsi are indulgent beverages. We have no idea what their black liquid is, but it’s pleasant and we find it difficult to quit. Iyoshi Cola is a game-changer. This is raw artisan cola produced entirely of natural ingredients with an unparalleled flavor. It is just not available anyplace else.
It’s familiar, normal cola, but yet wonderfully unique. It may be the subtle spice flavors coming through, or the Kola nut imparting a natural “cola kick.” Or maybe it’s the citrus fruits’ mild zing. Whatever it is, this handcrafted natural cola is really wonderful. The revolution in cola has started. It is time to consume Iyoshi Cola.
Iyoshi Cola, located in an old drugstore beside the Kanda River, offers a pleasant summer prescription.
While Tokyo boasts many establishments serving artisan beer, third-wave coffee, and premium tea, if you’re in the mood for a soft drink, you’re pretty much limited to what’s available at vending machines.
This Shinjuku artisan cola store, situated only a two-minute walk from Shimo-Ochiai Station, hopes to alter that. Iyoshi Cola, which is owned and operated by craft cola specialist Kola Kobayashi, offers an artisanal version of the world’s favorite soda with a Japanese twist.
Iyoshi Cola debuted in late February on the Kanda River promenade. The name ‘Iyoshi’ is derived from ‘Iyoshi Yakko,’ the name of a traditional Japanese pharmacy formerly held by Kobayashi’s grandpa.
The ancient pharmacy has been transformed into Kobayashi’s cola laboratory; he even makes the cola using some of his grandfather’s old medical equipment, such as spice grinders.
The tiny store has unquestionably maintained the pharmacy’s basic and clean appearance. While you wait for your order, you may even see the factory’s manufacturing process via a window.
Kobayashi’s drinks are all-natural, including citrus fruit, spices, and kola nuts. At the moment, three varieties of housemade cola are available: the traditional ‘dreamy flavor’ (500), a Japanese-style version (550) flavored with yuzu, and a milk cola (500).
Each cola undergoes a subtle transformation when combined with a straw – some become sweeter, while others develop new flavors. For instance, the milk cola has a slightly sour, yogurt-like flavor that is very refreshing.
You may even make your own Iyoshi Cola by buying one of the cola syrups. The variety varies in price from 1,200 for single bottles to 3,350 for packaged gift versions. Simply dilute the mixture with four times the quantity of carbonated water and you’ve got yourself a homemade cola.
If you’re unable to visit the store in person, the unusual cola is available at many locations around the city, including Uplink cinemas in Kichijoji and Shibuya, Anjin in Daikanyama, and Chef’s Selection in the basement of Isetan Shinjuku.