Fufu's Fluffy Japanese Sandos: A Delicious Surprise in Sunnybank
The unexpected success of Fufu's Japanese sando and drink cafe in Sunnybank's Market Square has been a delightful surprise for owner Haru Shinkai. What started as a small, local sandwich shop with a focus on Japanese-inspired Australian sandwiches has quickly become a popular destination for Brisbanites.
The menu at Fufu offers a unique blend of classic Japanese sandwiches and creative twists on Australian favorites. One of the current bestsellers is the prawn katsu sando, featuring a crispy panko-crumbed prawn patty, fresh lettuce, dill, lemon zest, and a special Japanese-style tartare sauce. The shop's signature fruit sandos, made with seasonal fruit and whipped cream, are also a hit, though they tend to sell out by the end of the day.
What sets Fufu apart is its attention to detail and unique ingredients. Even the most standard-looking sandwiches receive a special touch. For example, the tamago sando comes with a luxurious combination of egg salad, tobiko (flying fish roe), and a whole egg with a runny yolk. The katsu sando is equally impressive, topped with a zesty karashi mustard mayo, house-made tonkatsu sauce, and a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi chili powder.
The secret behind Fufu's delicious bread lies in its source. Shinkai commissions a commercial bakery to produce shokupan, a type of soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread, using a custom recipe created specifically for Fufu by a Japanese baker. This attention to detail ensures that Fufu's bread is authentic and consistent.
The coffee and specialty drinks at Fufu are equally impressive. Seven Miles beans are used for the coffee, and matcha and hojicha are featured in the specialty drinks. Three signature drinks, including a matcha latte, a cold brew coffee, and a coconut water with spirulina cold foam, have become customer favorites, adding a unique and creamy twist to each beverage.
Despite the initial expectation of a small, local shop, Fufu's popularity has soared. Shinkai's decade of experience in the food industry, including her time at Goya Cafe, has contributed to the shop's success. However, the team has had to adapt by keeping the menu tight and focusing on the most popular sandwiches to manage demand effectively.
Fufu's Fluffy Japanese Sandos are a delightful surprise, offering a unique dining experience that has quickly gained a loyal following in Sunnybank. With its attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and creative menu, Fufu is a must-visit destination for anyone craving a taste of Japan in Brisbane.
