Reader’s Question: On the 28th of this month (Sunday), I will be going to Harajuku and Koenji for personal reasons. Are there any good bakeries in Harajuku, Koenji, or the surrounding area that sell delicious baked goods? I would be
especially happy to find scones or cookies.
Chasing Scones and Cookies in Harajuku and Koenji
Hey there, fellow food adventurers! So, I heard you’re heading to Harajuku and Koenji this Sunday, and oh boy, do I envy you! Those areas are like a treasure chest filled with quirky shops, cafes, and yes, some of the most amazing bakeries you can find in Tokyo. If you’re on a quest for delicious baked goods—especially scones and cookies—you’re in for a treat! Let me take you on a little journey through my personal favorites in these neighborhoods. Grab your coffee, and let’s dig in!
Harajuku: The Trendy Heart of Tokyo
First off, Harajuku! This place is a whirlwind of fashion, youth culture, and Instagrammable spots. But let’s be honest, what’s a day out without a little sweet indulgence, right? One of my go-to spots is Floresta Nature Doughnuts, which is just a stone’s throw from the bustling Takeshita Street.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Doughnuts? But hear me out! These adorable little baked goods are organic and made with love. While they may not be scones or cookies, they offer seasonal offerings, and I swear their limited-edition flavors are like a hug in pastry form. It’s totally worth trying out their matcha doughnut or the sweet potato flavor while you’re there!
However, let’s get back to scones and cookies. For that, you HAVE to check out Le Pain de Joël Robuchon. This place is an absolute must-visit for any bread lover. Tucked away near the Omotesando area, this bakery is the perfect mix of French elegance and Japanese precision. Their scones are fluffy, with a delightful crumb, and come in various flavors. I once tried the cranberry scone, and it was pure bliss! The sweetness from the cranberries complemented the buttery goodness of the scone perfectly.
Koenji: The Hipster Vibe
Now, let’s hop over to Koenji, which, in my opinion, has a unique charm that’s hard to beat. The vibe here is super laid-back, filled with vintage shops, live music venues, and, of course, amazing food! One bakery that caught my eye is Pâtisserie Potager. This cute little spot specializes in organic ingredients, and they whip up some of the best cookies I’ve ever tasted!
Their dark chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer. Honestly, I had to fight the urge to buy a dozen of them in one go. Soft, gooey, and just the right amount of sweetness! If you can manage to snag one while it’s still warm, you’ll understand why I’m raving about them.
Another delightful spot in Koenji is Bakery & Table, which is not just a bakery but a cozy little café as well. The inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot to chill out with a book or have a chat with friends. Their scones are perfection—light and flaky, with a hint of sweetness. I remember enjoying their classic scones with a dollop of fresh clotted cream and jam. It felt like an afternoon tea straight out of a fairy tale!
Beyond Bakeries: Café Culture
Okay, okay, before you start thinking that bakeries are the only places to find good baked goods, let’s chat about some cafés that are worth your time! One of my favorites is Hoshino Coffee, where you can find some delightful baked goods along with their famous soufflé pancakes. The ambiance is super cozy, perfect for chilling out after a morning of shopping.
They have these amazing butter cookies that practically melt in your mouth. Trust me, you’ll want to pair them with a cup of their rich coffee. Nothing beats a good cookie and coffee combo to recharge your batteries!
The Sweetest Hidden Gems
Now, I can’t help but share a couple of hidden gems that you might not find in the usual tourist guides. One of them is Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory. Located a bit off the beaten path in Setagaya, this tiny bakery is famous for its adorable cream puffs shaped like Totoro. Yes, you heard that right! While not cookies or scones, these little guys are a delicious treat that you absolutely cannot miss if you’re a Studio Ghibli fan.
They offer seasonal flavors like matcha and strawberry, and trust me, the creamy filling is to die for! Just remember to get there early; these cream puffs tend to sell out fast!
Another spot worth mentioning is Shibuya’s Little Nap Coffee Stand, which is a bit of a trek from Harajuku and Koenji but totally worth it if you’re a coffee and baked goods enthusiast. Their cookies are thick, chewy, and packed with chocolate chunks. It’s the kind of cookie that makes you smile and want to take a bite out of life!
Final Thoughts: Sweet Memories Await
As you get ready for your day in Harajuku and Koenji, remember to keep your eyes peeled for these sweet spots. Who knows what other delicious surprises you might stumble upon? The beauty of exploring these neighborhoods is that every corner has a story, and every bakery has a unique flavor waiting for you to discover.
I can’t wait to hear about your adventures and what tasty treats you end up finding. Just know that whether you indulge in a scone, a cookie, or any other delightful pastry, you’re sure to create sweet memories along the way. Happy exploring!
