Assassin's Creed Shadows launched on March 20th, 2025, and to celebrate, Ubisoft has set up a themed cafe in Harajuku. Game8 had the privilege of previewing the event, and here are our detailed impressions of the venue, the culinary offerings, and the captivating exhibitions.
Hidden Away from the Public
Something of a Secret
The weather had taken a turn for the better since the heavy snowfall just two days prior. While not quite warm, the air carried the promise of spring, making it a perfect day to be outdoors. Amidst the usual hustle and bustle of Harajuku Station, with tourists and young locals lining up for the latest trendy spots, a serene escape awaited just around the corner from Takeshita Street. Here, away from the crowds, lay a themed cafe celebrating the launch of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Ubisoft collaborated with a major fan of the series, Dante Carver, to transform the chic dotcom space Tokyo venue into this themed cafe. Game8 was invited to a media event ahead of the public opening tonight, and we extend our gratitude to Ubisoft for the opportunity. Please note that this article is not sponsored; Ubisoft will see it at the same time as the public.
The Venue
dotcom space Tokyo
Though the location was tucked away, the entrance was unmistakable with "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" illuminated in bold neon lights, showcasing the protagonists Yasuke and Naoe alongside the iconic Assassin’s Brotherhood emblem.
Having never visited dotcom space Tokyo before, I could still recognize its typical modern, minimalist aesthetic: white walls, exposed ceilings, and cracked floors (which I nearly tripped over). The cafe was equipped with stylish drink machines and angular beige furniture, featuring two long tables and various seating areas against one wall. It comfortably seats around 40-50 people.
The Assassin’s Creed theme was evident through posters of the series, scattered artworks, Ubisoft-logoed pillows, encyclopedias, and artbooks from previous games. A projector played a silent show from the Shadows event in Kyoto in February, while classic game BGM filled the space with ambiance.
Further back, several exhibits caught my eye, but first, let’s delve into the cafe's culinary offerings.
The Menu
Pleasantly Affordable
The themed cafe's prices were surprisingly reasonable. Drinks ranged from 650 to 750 yen (approximately $4 to $5 USD), and food items were priced at 800 yen (about $5.30 USD). While more expensive than typical vending machine prices, the specialty drinks and themed branding justify the cost. Plus, you receive a free goodie bag (while supplies last) and an additional item with any food or drink purchase, making it an excellent value for fans.
The drink menu offered five options:
- Cafe Latte for the Assassin who Serves the Light - 650円
- Cafe Mocha for the Assassin who Works in the Dark - 750円
- Shadows 檸檬水 (Lemonade in Japanese) - 700円
- Valhalla Sitronbrus (Lemonade in Norwegian) - 700円
- Odyssey λεμονάδα (Lemonade in Greek) - 700円
The food menu included two choices:
- Assassin’s Creed Dolce Set - 800円
- Assassin’s Creed Crest Toast - 800円
As part of the media event, we sampled both food options but chose one drink. Opting for the Shadows Lemonade in solidarity with the game's launch, I waited for my number to be called, then received my tray with the food and a tote bag of goodies. I quickly found a seat to enjoy and photograph my meal.
The Food
The Toast Tasted Terrific
The aroma of melted cheese filled the air as soon as I entered, and it only intensified as the cheese-covered toast was placed before me. Adorned with the Assassin Brotherhood logo (likely in paprika), the toast came with a side of syrup to drizzle over the cheese.
While some might balk at the idea of syrup on cheese toast, it’s a common pairing in Japan, and the balance of salty cheese and sweet syrup was delightful. However, my prolonged photo-taking meant the toast was lukewarm by the time I ate it. The crust had hardened slightly, but the interior remained soft and fluffy, characteristic of Japanese bread.
Sipping the red lemonade, which might have been flavored with cranberry, added a refreshing touch to the meal. Though my palate couldn’t confirm the exact flavors, the drink complemented the toast well.
Dolce Disappoints
The Dolce Set featured two pastries: a madeleine and a cookie, both adorned with the AC logo in sugar. The madeleine was moist with a pleasing almond aftertaste, though its density made me reach for my lemonade more often. It would have paired better with coffee, but my choice of drink remained unchanged.
The cookie, while visually appealing with its teal color, was less impressive. The thick layer of frosting made it challenging to bite into, and the cookie itself was hard. Despite a subtle cocoa flavor, the overall experience was underwhelming compared to the madeleine.
The Exhibitions
Artwork and Replicas
After savoring the food, I explored the exhibitions. Replicas of in-game items like Yasuke’s mask and Naoe’s Hidden Blade were displayed, along with mannequins dressed in the protagonists' outfits. Though I had hoped for live cosplayers, the detailed mannequins were still a treat. Origami and figurines showcased intricate craftsmanship, and a striking painting of the protagonists adorned one wall.
Many of these items are available for purchase from PureArts, such as the Hidden Blade and Yasuke’s helmet. For those on a budget, simply admiring the detailed exhibits was rewarding.
Is It Worth It?
If You Temper Your Expectations
The event's popularity is hard to predict given the divisive opinions on the game and the venue's discreet location. However, themed cafes often draw both casual and dedicated fans, especially with the event's limited two-day run from March 22nd to March 23rd, from 11am to 6:30pm.
For Assassin’s Creed fans, the cafe is worth a visit if you set realistic expectations. Don't expect an immersive experience; it's primarily a themed cafe with food, drinks, and merchandise. The prices are reasonable, the cheese toast is delicious, and you'll receive gifts (while supplies last). Viewing the art and exhibitions is free.
Though it would have been enhanced by cosplayers, these pop-up cafes don’t typically promise such attractions. If you're a fan in or visiting Japan this weekend, consider stopping by for about 30 minutes. For non-fans, the cheese toast and colorful drinks are still appealing, though the themed experience may not resonate as much.
If you're a fan but unable to visit Japan in the next two days, hopefully, this article provided a vicarious experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Harajuku Event Information
- Location: dotcom space Tokyo (1-19-19 Erindale Jingumae B1F, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001)
- Date and Time: March 22, 2025 (Sat) to March 23, 2025 (Sun), 11:00am to 6:30pm (Last Order: 6:00pm)
