This cafe in Seventeen Mall, PJ serves a unique Hokkaido-inspired softcream latte & milkshakes

Tucked away in Seventeen Mall, Petaling Jaya, is Japow. A local dessert spot that serves up an array of unique offerings inspired by Japanese flavours.

Even a year after its debut, this charming spot remains under the radar and deserves more recognition. It currently sports a 4.3 star rating on Google, backed by enthusiastic reviews.

What sets Japow apart is its signature Hokkaido-inspired softcream, expertly crafted from fresh, unadulterated dairy and cream, prepared daily in-store. Each serving is delivered in a baked butter cookie cone. This adds a little crunch to complement the silky, creamy texture of the softcream.

The meaning behind Japow

Image Credit: @japowsoftcream on Instagram (left), Japow on Google Review (right)

The name “Japow” is a clever fusion of ‘Japan’ and ‘powder’ referring to the incredible quality of powder snow that blankets regions like Hokkaido.

Hokkaido, an island in Japan, attracts ski enthusiasts from around the globe with its pristine landscapes and superb snow conditions. Drawing inspiration from nature, Japow aims to capture that same exceptional quality and texture in its softcream desserts.

One of the standout features of Japow’s offerings is its use of Hokkaido milk, known for its rich, creamy taste, and high-fat content.

Hokkaido produces some of the world’s finest dairy products, thanks to its fertile lands and favourable climate for raising dairy cows. Fun fact: Hokkaido milk covers a whopping 50% of Japan’s milk production!

The milk contains a higher fat content compared to standard milk, resulting in a smoother and richer flavour that naturally changes the game for softcream.

What is softcream?

Image Credit: @japowsoftcream on Instagram (left), Sheryn Ng (right)

While we’re all familiar with the term ‘soft serve’, in Japan, ‘softcream’ reigns supreme.

Unlike traditional soft serve, which is often mass-produced using powdered premixes with a lower fat content—typically around 4%—softcream is churned fresh and served at a slightly higher temperature. This results in a uniquely silky texture that melts in your mouth.

At Japow, the softcream boasts a fat content of over 10%, crafted solely from fresh milk and cream. The absence of stabilisers and preservatives allows you to fully appreciate the pure flavours without any artificial aftertaste.

While you are treated to a richer dessert at Japow, it also melts faster than its industrial counterparts, so consider yourself warned.

A Hokkaido treat in PJ

Image Credit: Karen MC on Google Review (left), @japowsoftcream on Instagram (right)

At Japow, the softcream truly takes centre stage, with reviews highlighting that it is indeed delicious, milky and perfectly sweetened. For an additional RM2, you can add a signature topping: the matcha and almond croquants come highly recommended for an extra layer of flavour and crunch.

Japow also offers a selection of milkshakes and beverages. The milkshakes are rich and come in a variety of flavours, each crowned with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Coffee enthusiasts will be pleased to discover the unique einspanner, available in both Americano and latte options, including a matcha variant for those looking to try something different. Every drink is crafted with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each sip is as creamy as the softcream.

For those seeking a coffee-infused dessert experience, don’t sleep on their sundae affogatos, which combine the richness of softcream with the cutting profile of freshly brewed espresso.

In a foodie city filled with endless cafes and dessert spots, Japow stands out with its rare Hokkaido flavoured softcream. So why not treat your sweet tooth to a refreshing culinary experience?