Tokyo Lamingtons
With Min Chai, Tokyo Lamington, Australia Street Newtown
Tucked away on Australia Street, Tokyo Lamington is anything but ordinary. Since 2020, this sunny corner shop has been turning a humble Australian icon into something new. Bold in spirit, generous in heart, and crafted with quiet precision, Tokyo Lamington is a perfect fusion of Newtown and Japan.
For owner Min Chai, Newtown was the natural choice. “The vibrant, diverse community matches our beliefs and our approach to business,” he says. It also mirrors the shop’s spirit — a blend of Min’s Japanese roots and the laid-back character of Newtown locals. Beautiful ceramics, low welcoming seating and carefully wrapped lamingtons speak of craft and care. The easy smiles, casual chats and sunny energy come straight from the street outside.
Creativity is everywhere. Flavours twist and turn away from the expected, offering Newtown’s curious crowd something playful and personal. “Newtown’s spirit of creativity and inclusiveness inspires everything we do,” Min says.
The shop stands on the original site where Black Star Pastry first rose to fame. Rather than shy away from that legacy, Tokyo Lamington has leaned in. Their business license proudly bears the name White Moon, flipping Black Star on its head. Occasionally they release lamingtons inspired by Black Star’s famous pastries, reimagined with affection, wit and a little Newtown spark. It is not an imitation. It is creative play - a reminder that this neighbourhood has never been afraid of doing things differently.
“The area around Australia Street really feels like a village,” Min says. “Neighbours know each other, local businesses support each other, and it feels genuine. That support has been essential to helping us grow.”
Walks through Camperdown Park are part of Min’s daily ritual. “It gives me a moment to clear my head, connect with nature, and often bump into customers and neighbours. Those casual conversations are often the highlights of my day.”
At Tokyo Lamington, tradition and imagination sit comfortably side by side. It is a shop where community happens naturally and where a lamington can carry a bigger story.
“We have always wanted to be that third place for people—not home, not work, but a welcoming space where people can belong.”
At Tokyo Lamington, beauty, humour and heart sit side by side. It is Newtown, in all the best ways.