New Japanese Coffee Shop in Sugar Land, Texas: Kohiko

Due to my job, I frequently travel through various parts of Houston throughout the year. The Greater Houston area, often referred to as Harris County, is always buzzing with culture and new ideas. From restaurants serving impressive hot dogs to sushi spots specializing solely in hand rolls, this city embraces just about anything. As my brother often says, "If it's possible, it will happen in Houston first." Known for its rich cultural diversity and eclectic culinary scene, Houston is now introducing a new concept: Japanese coffee. And folks, this is not your neighborhood Starbucks.

Three areas in Houston are growing rapidly: Pearland, Sugar Land, and Friendswood. In Sugar Land, near the local HEB Grocery and catty-corner to Keeper’s Japanese Restaurant, Kohiko, a new coffee spot, has become the latest craze for coffee and Japan enthusiasts. With the rise of specialty coffee, Japanese coffee culture is finding its way into the hearts and cups of Houstonians, and the response has been impressive. Locals appreciate the fusion of meticulous brewing techniques, unique flavors, and a deep respect for the craft, promising a fresh and exciting experience in the local coffee scene. Kohiko offers a delicious and different experience that draws people in.

Kohiko’s concept is new, created by young entrepreneur Nicolas Tanaka. For years, this idea 'brewed' in his mind, and now he and his team have celebrated their grand opening. The establishment has a unique vibe, reflected in its details: lots of natural lighting, a modern and sleek interior, and palpable excitement and passion from the team behind the counter. The friendly staff, numerous power outlets for students, outdoor seating, and an open-concept kitchen where you can watch your drinks being made all contribute to the inviting atmosphere.

On my first visit, I followed the counter staff's recommendation and ordered the Okinawan latte with oat milk. It was out of this world. If coffee isn’t your thing, Kohiko also offers a variety of unique and high-quality brewed teas and other beverages, including matcha, hojicha, and premium Japanese imported teas. Their syrups, made in-house with distinctive flavors like black sesame, banana, orange, and brown sugar, add a creative twist to their drinks.

I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to do my grocery shopping nearby at the local HEB off Austin Parkway and visit Kohiko again. During my second visit, I asked for recommendations from customers waiting for their orders. Everyone said, "Order the 'Moshi Moshi Matcha' with whole milk!" I took their advice, and they were right—it really is that good! For anyone in the area looking for a great coffee shop, this is the one. Be patient with the staff and the line—it’s recently opened and already has tons of interest. Despite waiting about a week to avoid the 'first day rush,' I still had to wait, but it was definitely worth it.

On my third visit, I read online reviews from previous customers who raved about certain products and concepts. The most recommended beverage was the 'Okinawa Latte,' which has now become my favorite. It’s sweetened with a traditional Okinawan brown sugar named Kokuto, a type of unrefined sugar from Okinawa, Japan. Made by boiling down pure sugarcane juice, it results in a dark, rich, and slightly molasses-like flavor with a deep brown color and a complex taste. When blended with milk, deep and dark espresso, and combined with black sesame, it’s phenomenal. This isn’t the sweetened coffee you might expect but a rare balance of mildly bitter flavor accentuated by the sweetness of the sugar.

Quick note: parking is currently a challenge. Have patience. If you can’t find a spot, park in the HEB parking lot and walk over to Kohiko. It’s worth it and not a far walk at all.

Japanese coffee culture is distinct and deeply rooted in precision, quality, and an appreciation for finer details. Unlike the fast-paced coffee culture often found in the West, Japanese coffee emphasizes a slower, more deliberate approach. This includes hand-pouring methods, such as pour-over and siphon brewing, which allow for greater control over the brewing process and result in a more nuanced cup of coffee. When you’re in Sugar Land, Texas (southern Houston), Kohiko is a great spot to consider.

After three visits, I can attest that this idea is new, exciting, truly different, and has massive potential for the people of Sugar Land and beyond.

4617 Austin Pkwy, Sugar Land, TX 77479

Phone Number Currently Not Available

www.kohicoffeehouse.com