New to Yorkdale and just in time for the holidays is the exceptionally awaited % Arabica. See The World Through Coffee, is the core message of the brand.
Founder and Creative Director Kenneth Shoji created the independent coffee brand as a result of his love of design, desire to explore the world and an appreciation for a good cup. After university, Shoji spent a lot of time asking himself who he was and what kind of life he wanted to lead, especially for his children. Finding happiness in simplicity, Shoji became clear on what he wanted and through borrowed funds, bought a coffee farm in Hawaii. From there, he partook in trading, exporting and distributing coffee-related goods until he opened the brand's flagship location in Kyoto, Japan in 2014.
With over 134 locations around the world, Toronto will be home to % Arabica's first Canadian storefront. Opened on Saturday, December 10, % Arabica is thrilled to be here. Offering some of the world’s finest coffee beans, the brand's commitment to quality is evident through its premium varieties of coffee. The menu has been created with an assortment of different options including espresso-based coffees, specialty lattes, drip coffees and matcha.
% Arabica promotes a lifestyle experience that is simple, stylish and minimalistic. Each location is designed differently presenting its customers with a new experience each visit. The Japanese-inspired ambiance in the Yorkdale storefront is inviting with warm neutral tones. In an open concept filled with the smell of roasted coffee, individuals can watch or take a seat as they wait for their beverages to be made.
"We are extremely excited to enter the Canadian market. We have a deep love for Canada and anticipate Canadians will feel the same way about our coffee,” says Shoji. “The opening of our first Canadian brick & mortar inside Yorkdale Shopping Centre marks the first of many openings across Canada. In 2023 we will be opening another Toronto location inside Union station. We’re also thrilled to announce we’ll expand to the West Coast with a location in Whistler, British Columbia. You’ll notice that we provide a one-of-a-kind experience from start to finish; the moment you enter % Arabica, you are transported into our world," he continues.
Shoji spent a lot of his youth traveling with his family and believes in the value of exploring the world over an amazing cup of coffee. A unique idea, % Arabica's philosophy is simple yet impactful. Open 8:30 am to 10:00 pm every day and located beside the Joey's entrance, pop in and grab a cup at % Arabica's first Canadian location!
