Introducing CIAO!

Hello there, fellow travelers!
I’m Binako, a sweet-tooth Sarukuma writer, and I’m thrilled to share today’s discovery with you!

Today’s spotlight shines on CIAO!, a charming little gem tucked away in Obiyama, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City.

Newly opened on October 4, this is a tiramisu specialty shop — Kumamoto’s very first! Just imagining it is enough to make any dessert lover swoon, but please hang in there until the end of the article!

There are 2 parking spots conveniently located right in front of the shop.

Orders are placed through an outdoor service window — a wonderful setup if you’re traveling with little ones, since you can shop while keeping an eye on the kids!

The shop offers 5 varieties of tiramisu. They also have a 3-piece set (1,290 yen) and a 5-piece set (2,050 yen), making them perfect souvenirs or gifts to bring back home.

CIAO! Recommended Menu

This time, I tried all 5 flavors! The little jars come nestled in an adorable box that reminded me of baby chicks in a nest.

Since the tiramisu is delivered frozen, it’s best enjoyed after thawing for 2 hours in the refrigerator or 1 hour at room temperature.

First up, the classic Plain (390 yen) — the timeless tiramisu that started it all.

I couldn’t wait, so I dug in a little early — and that turned out to be the right call! The slightly icy, semi-thawed texture was almost like ice cream — light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to eat.

The sweetness is perfectly balanced — not too sugary, so you could easily eat several without feeling overwhelmed.

Next, today’s recommendation: Banana (390 yen). Banana tiramisu — what a fresh and exciting twist!

The creamy mascarpone filling pairs absolutely perfectly with the mellow, fruity banana — a match made in dessert heaven.

It’s a flavor that adults and kids alike will adore. Honestly, with banana involved, I might even call it breakfast-appropriate (just kidding… maybe)!

Here’s the crowd favorite: Nama Chocolate (Fresh Chocolate, 390 yen). Fresh chocolate is pure justice — and any sweet-tooth’s eyes are already lighting up!

The two beautiful layers create magic that’s truly hard to describe in words! Despite being fresh chocolate, it isn’t overly sweet — instead, you get a sophisticated bitter note that makes it the ultimate jar of bliss for grown-up palates.

Now we have the Matcha (390 yen) — just the word “matcha” feels deliciously sinful!

The earthy, distinctly Japanese green tea aroma is genuinely soothing. Although tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert, this one is a beautiful East-meets-West fusion that makes you crave a cup of warm Japanese tea on the side.

And finally, the Strawberry (390 yen) — its pretty pink hue is sure to be a hit, especially with younger guests!

One bite makes you feel just a little more elegant. The lovely balance of strawberry sweetness and gentle tartness makes this a must-try for any berry lover.

CIAO! truly delivers heavenly tiramisu. Why not buy a variety pack and share with friends or family for the ultimate tasting experience?

Be sure to drop by while you’re exploring Kumamoto!

Follow us on Instagram for daily updates!
At Sarukuma, we share lunch spots, parks, and indoor playtime ideas perfect for families exploring Kumamoto.
Thanks for following along(*´∀｀*)

Frequently Asked Questions

* Information is current as of the visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.