Angling for a delightful spin on your shopping spree? Hello Kitty and company are revving up to woo Angelenos with a pair of pastel-perfect confections and collectibles as the first-ever Los Angeles-based Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe, accompanied by the Sanrio Smile Shop, sweeps into Universal CityWalk this Friday. In a city that's no stranger to themed eateries and whimsical pop-ups, this new venture trades sky-high thrills for a different kind of sugar rush.
The cafe, heralded by landmarks like an iconic oversized bow, is tipped to be a hot spot for both indulgence and Instagram—brimming with grab-and-go goodies arrayed in true Sanrio style a statement by Eater Los Angeles hints at a veritable feast of Sanrio-themed desserts with universal appeal, think chocolate domes, confetti cakes and even macarons. To wash it down, beverages with a twist come inspired by characters from the globally adorable universe, the Keroppi frozen matcha latte and the Tuxedo Sam blue raspberry lemonade are just a sneak peek of the lineup.
Directly adjacent, the Sanrio Smile Shop is poised to pack a punch of nostalgia with an array of merchandise ready to steal the hearts of die-hard fans and newcomers alike. With exclusive lines and a photo op, the experience promises to be more than just retail therapy, as highlighted in an NBC Los Angeles report showcasing the cafe's role as part of the broader Universal CityWalk expansion.
What's more, in celebration of the global icon's half-century mark, Universal Studios isn't shying away from going all out “This year, in honor of her 50th anniversary, Hello Kitty also debuted a soft pastel pink flowy dress, embodying the perfect blend of timeless charm and elegance to commemorate her milestone moment as she poses alongside guests for memorable photo ops,” reads a statement from Universal Studios Hollywood chronicled by CBS News Los Angeles. This festive note extends to the grand opening, which, according to a post on hellokitty's Instagram, is set to include themed treats and merch, a meet and greet with Hello Kitty herself, and special gifts for early birds marking the occasion.
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