A world-renowned Japanese coffee brand has opened their doors in Whistler! % Arabica, a Kyoto-founded minimalist, independent coffee brand has a new outpost at 4295 Blackcomb Way, Unit 123, Whistler, BC.
Specializing in premium varieties of coffee, % Arabica is known for serving the world’s finest coffee beans, and making perfect, yet simple, barista brews.
% Arabica was founded by Kenneth Shoji in 2013 with a global flagship store in Kyoto, Japan, in 2014. The brand quickly gained a loyal customer base due to their outstanding coffee and elegant, timeless store design.
Founder Kenneth Shoji was inspired to start % Arabica by his desire for an exceptional daily coffee experience paired with outstanding customer service. To immerse himself in the coffee industry, he bought a coffee farm in Hawaii, established a green bean trading company, exported Japanese coffee roasting machines, and became a distributor for Slayer. Armed with this extensive experience, Shoji launched % Arabica, driven by his vision to expand the brand globally. This vision is encapsulated in the % Arabica motto: “See the World Through Coffee.”
% Arabica has expanded rapidly, now boasting over 188 stores across 24 countries in North America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
They source largely from small farms, serving their unique blend, as well as single-origin beans from around the world.
The Whistler location also roasts coffee beans on site.
On the menu are espresso-based coffees, specialty lattes, drip coffees, matcha, and much more specialty offerings. Below is their menu with prices:
I tried a 4 oz version of their Kyoto latte which has a bit of sweetness, strong aromatic and richer body. The other drink I had was their Matcha Latte featuring Uji Matcha. This had a nutty flavour with a bit of sweetness.
Did you know that the brand’s symbol % is inspired by two coffee beans on a coffee branch?
The interior design of the Whistler store draws inspiration from the beauty and allure of ice caves.
The high-tech Japanese toilet in the washroom was a nice touch.
Arabica’s Grand Opening is Saturday June 22 with free pastries for the first 50 customers.
% Arabica (Whistler Village) is located at 4295 Blackcomb Way, Unit 123, Whistler, BC.
