They're all super popular in Japan — which do you prefer, Garrett or KuKuRuZa?

▲Garrett Popcorn is a famous popcorn shop from Chicago, USA. (Photo / Huang Shih-yuan)

Reporter Huang Shih-yuan / Taipei Report

Popular popcorn brands from Japan have been making their way to Taiwan one after another. Garrett Popcorn is a renowned popcorn shop from Chicago, USA, famous for its flavors passed down since 1949. After being introduced to Japan, it quickly became a huge hit. In December last year (2015), it opened its first store in Taiwan at Taipei 101. Meanwhile, KuKuRuZa originates from Seattle, with its Omotesando branch also attracting long queues. Its first store in Taiwan is located at the Mitsui Outlet Park in Linkou, opening on January 25. Both are specialty American-style popcorn shops — which one do you like more?

Garrett Popcorn
Garrett Popcorn’s Taipei store offers seven flavors: Original, Chicago Mix, Crispy Caramel, Rich Cheese, Creamy Butter, Almond Crispy Caramel, and Hawaiian Caramel. The story of Garrett Popcorn began with a family competition to see who could make the most delicious caramel popcorn. Eventually, one family member stood out with their delicate and unique technique — giving birth to what is now Garrett’s signature Crispy Caramel flavor. It has the crispy texture reminiscent of French crème brûlée.

Address: B1F, Taipei 101
Business hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00–21:30; Friday to Sunday: 11:00–22:00.


▲KuKuRuZa Popcorn. (Photo / Huang Shih-yuan)

KuKuRuZa Popcorn
KuKuRuZa offers plenty of flavors as well, including popular ones such as Hawaiian Salted Caramel, Spicy Caramel & Blue Cheese, Japanese Matcha, and Truffle Cheese Porcini. Hawaiian Salted Caramel combines caramel with Hawaiian sea salt to create a sweet-and-salty popcorn flavor. Spicy Caramel & Blue Cheese pairs sweet and spicy caramel with blue cheese — two contrasting yet compatible tastes that result in one of the most unique popcorn flavors, an exclusive combination only available at KuKuRuZa.

Address: 1F, No. 356, Section 1, Wenhua 3rd Rd., Linkou District, New Taipei City