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# Video Game-Themed Cafes
Super Mario-Themed Pop-Up Cafes Have Recently Opened in Japan

By Katherine Pendrill | Published 2015-06-16 | Lifestyle
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/popup-cafes
References: [designtaxi](http://designtaxi.com/news/376760/In-Japan-Super-Mario-Themed-Pop-Up-Cafes-Celebrate-The-Game-s-30th-Anniversary/) & [tower.jp](http://tower.jp/article/news/2015/06/09/n101)

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of [Nintendo's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baskinrobbins-super-mario-menu) classic Super Mario Bros. game, a number of video game-themed pop-up cafes have recently set up shop in Japan. The pop-ups are run by the [Tower Records](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/glitter-cookie-butter) stores and will be open for a period of about two weeks this summer.

The quirky video game-themed pop-up cafes are designed to celebrate the classic game with a number of Super Mario-inspired edibles. Customers will be able to choose from a delightful range of sweet and savory treats, including a pixelated Mario Latte, a Princess Peach Panna Cotta and even a Super Star Rice Omelette. In addition to the nostalgia-inducing snacks, Tower Records is also set to release a selection of Super Mario-themed merchandise to mark the occasion.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.1/10
- Popularity: 40% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Pop-up Cafes:** The rise of video game-themed pop-up cafes presents an opportunity for businesses to tap into the nostalgia and fandom of popular gaming franchises.
- **Themed Edibles:** The introduction of Super Mario-inspired food and drinks in cafes highlights the potential for creativity and innovation in the culinary industry.
- **Merchandise Collaboration:** The partnership between Tower Records and Nintendo demonstrates the potential for cross-industry collaborations in the retail sector to capitalize on popular gaming trends.

### Where This Applies

- **Hospitality:** Hotels and restaurants can leverage the concept of pop-up cafes to create immersive experiences that attract both gaming enthusiasts and nostalgia-seeking customers.
- **Food and Beverage:** Food and beverage businesses can explore the market for themed edibles, creating unique products that appeal to gaming fans and collectors.
- **Retail:** Retailers can partner with gaming companies to create exclusive merchandise collections, tapping into the demand for limited edition and nostalgic merchandise.

## Related on Trend Hunter

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- [Video Game Merchandise Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-king-of-games.md)
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