Navelumi

Parfait

A parfait (パフェ) in Japan is a dessert built in layers in a tall glass: ice cream or soft serve, whipped cream and fruit, with textures such as cornflakes, granola, jelly or sponge cake between them. Fruit parlors, kissaten and cafés serve everything from classic chocolate and strawberry parfaits to matcha and seasonal-fruit creations.

Places
14
Popular in
Tokyo · Tokyo · Nagasaki
Often paired with
Pudding · Cheesecake · Cream soda · Crepe
Served in
Dessert cafe · Kissaten · Bakery cafe

History

The name comes from the French “parfait” (“perfect”), originally a frozen, mousse-like dessert. In Japan the word came to mean the tall, layered glass dessert, which spread through department-store dining rooms, fruit parlors and kissaten in the Showa era. Specialty shops and hotel lounges later turned it into elaborate seasonal creations, and in Sapporo eating a parfait to end a night out (“shime parfait”) has become a local custom.

Why people love it

Every spoonful is a little different as you dig down through the layers, from cold ice cream to crunchy flakes and fresh fruit. Parfaits are also eye-catching, and the fruit changes with the seasons, so there is often something new to try.

How people enjoy it

Parfaits make a classic afternoon treat. Fruit parfaits follow the seasons: strawberries in winter and spring, peaches and melon in summer, and chestnut or sweet potato in autumn. Popular shops can have a wait on weekends, and some larger parfaits are big enough to share.

Places to visit

Find places serving parfaits →

Related topics

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between a parfait and a sundae?
In Japan a parfait usually comes in a tall glass with many layers, while a sundae is usually served in a shallower dish. The line isn't strict, and shops use both names freely.
What is a shime parfait?
A parfait eaten to end an evening out, a custom that started in Sapporo. Shops that serve it often stay open late into the night.
What's usually at the bottom?
Often cornflakes, granola, jelly or sponge cake, which add texture and soak up the melting ice cream.
Can I share one?
Most parfaits are single servings, but large ones can be shared. Some shops ask each guest to order something, so check the shop's rules.