At Teamania, we believe every dessert tells a story — of culture, mastery, and passion. Today, we’re excited to begin a new chapter in that story with the arrival of our newest team member: Chef Solomon, a Japanese pastry chef trained under one of the world’s most respected dessert masters, Chef Hiroshi Igarashi.
A Legacy of Global Pastry Excellence
Chef Solomon’s journey began in the kitchens of Tokyo, where he trained under Chef Hiroshi Igarashi, a towering figure in the international pastry world. Chef Igarashi made waves early in his career, earning Silver at the 1994 World’s Junior Pastry Competition, followed by a World Pastry Cup Silver Medal in 2001. His culinary path took him from the esteemed Pâtisserie Cartron in France to the Western Ginza Hotel in Tokyo, where he led as Executive Pastry Chef.
But his most historic achievement came in 2010, when he coached the Japanese national team to its first-ever championship victory at the Amoretti World Pastry Team Championship (WPTC). That same year, Chef Igarashi also received the Best Taste Award, making him a double champion and securing his place in the global pastry hall of fame.
From Tokyo to Teamania
During a visit to Japan, our founder Neil had the opportunity to connect with Chef Igarashi’s team, and it was there he met Chef Solomon, one of the chef’s most accomplished protégés. Impressed by Solomon’s creativity, precision, and humility, Neil extended an invitation that would bring a new level of innovation and authenticity to Teamania.
Today, we’re thrilled to announce that Chef Solomon is officially leading our pastry kitchen here in Rockville.
The Art and Science of Pastry
Great pastry requires more than technique. It’s a blend of creative vision, scientific understanding, and thoughtful execution. Chef Solomon embodies all of this. Whether he’s balancing flavors, refining textures, or perfecting presentation, his desserts aim to evoke emotion, memory, and joy.
With roots in traditional Japanese patisserie and experience shaped by European standards, Chef Solomon’s creations are not just desserts — they’re experiences.
What’s Next for Teamania
This exciting news couldn’t come at a better time. Teamania is about to celebrate its 6th Anniversary — a meaningful milestone for any small business, especially one built on a love for good food and strong community ties.
Over the past six years, we’ve proudly served the DMV area with our signature drinks and the now-famous Maryland Best Soufflé. But with our 6th year comes a new era — not just a celebration, but a rebirth. We’ll be introducing fresh pastries, expanding our drink menu, and refreshing the overall Teamania experience, all while holding tight to our original mission: to serve the most delicious, thoughtfully crafted treats to our local community.
Come Celebrate With Us!
Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or just discovered our café, we invite you to order online, stop by, try something new, and help us welcome Chef Solomon with open arms (and hungry stomachs). To mark this exciting moment and our 6th anniversary, we’re launching a few limited-time treats just for you:
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$6.66 Soufflé Deal – A smaller version of our star soufflé (1 cake instead of 3). Available Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays only.
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$36 Surprise Box – A mystery mix of pastries plus a gift card inside. Total value around $50!
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$9.99 Sandwich Combo – A full meal deal, regularly priced at $15.99.
We can’t wait to share what’s next.
To celebrate Teamania’s upcoming anniversary, Chef Solomon is bringing two delicious new cakes— Seventh Heaven Chocolate Truffle Cake and Celeste Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Cake. Available for just $2.95 (regular price $6.95) during our anniversary celebration. Don’t miss your chance to treat yourself!
Teamania — Still Local. Still Passionate. Now Even Sweeter.
