Paul Bassett Shinjuku
Paul Bassett is a highly popular bakery and café located in Shinjuku. It serves a variety of items such as croissants, coffee, cakes, and sandwiches.
What to know: Due to its popularity Paul Bassett is often full of people, but it is very spacious and is usually easy to find a seat. Many stop by for just a quick break or a small meal. People note the coffee is rich but well-balanced in acidity and bitterness and praise the food such as gelato for its nice presentation.
What to look for: The whipped cheese and mortadella ham croissant is quite popular here. Paul Bassett also offers a variety of egg dishes such as eggs Benedict, eggs and mashed potatoes, and ham, cheese, and avocado sandwiches, along with other pastries such as pain au chocolat.
MORETHAN BAKERY
MORETHAN BAKERY is located inside of a hotel in Shinjuku. It focuses on authentic, minimal-preservative bread, environmental sustainability, and their sandwiches.
What to know: Many people compare the bakery to a foreign, almost European boulangerie. The croissants are famous for their buttery flavour and flaky texture, and their melon bread is famous for its gentle sweetness and crispy exterior. Visitors should note that the bakery does not use plastic bags in order to promote sustainability.
What to look for: The bakery has a wide selection of bagels, from plain to chocolate to “everything.” Their sandwich selection is also quite large, including grilled cheese, spam, fried egg, and salmon with cream cheese.
12/10 Shinjuku Ten
Located in Shinjuku’s Keio Department Store, 12/10 is a popular bakery that holds both Western and Japanese-style breads.
What to know: The bakery is known for its rustic breads and pastries, such as its “An-Butter (red bean paste)” bread, seasonal items like pineapple and cream cheese, and its unique “Balloon Bread,” which stands out for its high moisture and chewy texture. The bakery is somewhat pricey, offering breads ranging around ¥500, but many locals love it regardless.
What to look for: The Balloon Bread is arguably the most popular menu item, along with their an-butter bread, chocolate cranberry bread, and their croissants.