MELBOURNE | Cult Hokkaido cheesecake brand LeTAO have just opened their first physical store in Australia. Last week I visited on behalf of What’s On Melbourne to check it out. So, first thing first, what makes these cheesecakes so lauded?
LeTAO we as founded by Seigou Kawagoe in 1998. He wanted to bake goodies inspired by both Japan and the West, drawing upon the quality produce of the Hokkaido region without being bound by the rigidity of tradition that surrounded the region’s famous sweets. He clearly hit upon a good thing, because 25 years later LeTAO has expanded to several cities around the world.
The offering is short but sweet. There’s a few variation of the wonderfully light and fluffy, slow baked cheesecake that started it all, plus a few cookies and seasonal creations. At any given time; you’ll find around ten things on offer. Quality over quantity is the name of the game.
The OG ‘Fromage Double’ is a must try. In the case of this location, it’s made using top notch Aussie dairy. It’s light, it’s cheesy, and very well balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. The buttery strawberry cheesecake cookies are also highly recommended.
There’s a soft serve machine on site of you’re in the mood for a delicious vanilla and cheesecake soft serve sundae, and there’s quality coffee for a caffeine hit.
LeTAO
238 Swanston Street
Melbourne
Victoria 3000
Australia
Telephone: 0404 761 888
E-mail: [email protected]
Website
Open
Mon – Sun: 12:00pm to 10:00pm