Elevating Sweets to a Fine Art

Italy meets Japan in a vibrant fusion of cuisine at Mimasuya Italiano of Kyoto, and it’s all about the presentation. One might even call the establishment’s desserts works of art. Colors are neatly arranged in each dish, and flavors mesh together for an amazing experience.

While customers might find it difficult to disrupt dishes that look so pretty, don’t be afraid to indulge.

Mimasuya Italiano’s Cassata ($8) takes the traditional Italian dessert cake and adds a modern, local twist to it.

Ricotta cheese is the basis of the dessert, which also features cream, orange peel, nuts and dried fruit — blueberries, cranberries and mango — all within the confines of an elegant martini glass. The delectable Cassata pieces sit atop a layer of gelatin for added texture and flavor.

Dried fruit is visible throughout each slice, which add pops of eye-catching color.

“I personally like it,” says bar manager Michael Lopez. “It’s like a cold custard style. It’s creamy with the dried fruits in there.”

Fans of Japanese pumpkin (kabocha) will fancy the Kabocha Pumpkin Flan ($7), which is comprised of pumpkin, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla and egg. This dish is served with a side of vanilla bean gelato and homemade whipped cream drizzled with caramel sauce and a fruit medley.

The Kabocha Pumpkin Flan is Lopez’s favorite dish and it isn’t hard to see why. The chefs use fresh pumpkin, so instead of a puree, patrons get the organic texture of the ingredient.

Cold Strawberry Soup ($7) is the epitome of refreshing, and you can thank the fresh fruit for that. Slices of strawberry are prepared in a limoncello-style marinade and a mint garnish tops off this spry dessert, which also is served with scoops of vanilla bean gelato.

What better way to end a relaxing meal than with a cool, soothing bowl of fresh strawberry soup? Jus’ Desserts can’t think of one.

Whatever your sweet tooth prefers, be sure to stop by Mimasuya Italiano of Kyoto, conveniently located on Kapiolani Boulevard in Uraku Tower, for flavors and dishes that will take you “around the world” with just one bite.

Mimasuya Italiano of Kyoto

1341 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. 101
951-9000
Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dinner: 5:30-11 p.m.
Closed every other Tuesday. The next closing will be Oct. 15.
Note: The restaurant houses a full bar. Free parking is located just past the eatery at the Kapiolani side entrance of Uraku Tower, in the basement level.