When Norwegian swimmer Henrik Christiansen, aka the “muffin man,” shared his love for the chocolate muffins at the Tokyo Olympics on TikTok, little did he know the impact it would have. His posts went viral, inspiring countless duplicate recipes and creating a buzz around these coveted muffins.
One such fan, New York City-based designer Kelin Carolyn Zhang, took it a step further. Determined to taste the real deal, she embarked on a mission to bring these Olympic muffins to the Big Apple. Despite facing initial obstacles, Zhang documented her journey on TikTok, leading to a collaboration in the restaurant industry that made her dream a reality.
The process was no easy feat. With the help of Isshiki Matcha in the East Village, Zhang managed to import 300 muffins from Paris to New York City. The first pop-up event held at the café was a massive success, with the muffins selling out in just two hours and drawing a long line of eager customers.
Following the event’s popularity, a second pop-up was announced, this time with a larger order of 1,000 muffins in honor of the Paralympics. Despite the logistical challenges, Zhang and Isshiki Matcha were determined to meet the demand and ensure that these iconic muffins reached a wider audience.
Reviews of the muffins have been overwhelmingly positive, with many likening them to the best chocolate cake they’ve ever had. Athletes and TikTok users alike have praised the delectable treats, further fueling the hype surrounding them.
For Zhang and Isshiki Matcha owner Angel Zheng, the entire experience has been surreal yet rewarding. The power of the internet and their shared passion for these muffins led to a successful collaboration that brought joy to many in the community.
While there are no immediate plans for a third pop-up, the legacy of these Olympic muffins lives on, tied to the spirit of the Olympics and Paralympics. Zhang hopes that their story will inspire others to seize opportunities and create memorable experiences of their own.
Ultimately, Zhang and Zheng, along with their dedicated customers, were able to indulge in these legendary muffins, savoring a taste of the Olympic experience.
(Photo courtesy of Kelin Carolyn Zhang)
