This Mochi Treat Was Invented In The United States, Not Japan - Tasting Table

"When you think of treats from Japan, you may think of a few different snacks, such as matcha, dango, and mochi ice cream. Surprisingly, however, the latter does not trace its roots back to Japan. While mochi is from Japan and can be traced back to ancient times, mochi ice cream is a different treat with a much more recent date of origin, only being introduced to the American public in the 1990s."

"Mochi ice cream was invented by Frances Hashimoto, a Japanese-American woman from Los Angeles who inherited the Mikawaya confectionery from her parents. In the 1980s, she first placed a scoop of ice cream into a roll of mochi, creating the treat we know and love today. Mikawaya began selling this treat in 1993, and it quickly became a fan-favorite, going on to be sold at tons of other restaurants and even in grocery stores."

"Today, brands like My/Mochi offer a wide variety of mochi ice cream flavors and have made the treat mainstream. Mochi ice cream can be found at stores like Target and Trader Joe's, which has its own brand of the treat. While the flagship Mikawaya confectionery store has closed, the brand still sells mochi ice cream in twelve different flavors, which you can purchase on its website."

Mochi is an ancient Japanese rice cake, but mochi ice cream originated in the United States in the 1980s. Frances Hashimoto, a Japanese-American who inherited the Mikawaya confectionery in Los Angeles, first wrapped ice cream in mochi and introduced the product commercially. Mikawaya began selling mochi ice cream in 1993, and the treat spread rapidly to restaurants and grocery stores. Modern brands like My/Mochi expanded flavor variety and mainstream distribution, with retailers such as Target and Trader Joe's carrying versions. The Mikawaya flagship store closed, but the brand continues to sell twelve flavors online. Hashimoto supported the Little Tokyo community and promoted cultural exchange.

Read at Tasting Table