Daimatsu Bakery

Beyond the sliding door opened early in the morning lies the aroma of freshly baked dough and shelves packed tightly with loaves and buns. Located in Higashi-Ikebukuro 2-chome, Daimatsu Bakery unlocks its door at 5:00 on weekday mornings, fuelling daily commutes and neighbourhood routines alike.

Picking up a tray and tongs, the savoury selection immediately catches the eye. Hearty katsu sandwiches, croquette buns, and pillowy white-bread rolls packed with potato salad or egg salad offer unpretentious, substantial sustenance. Crisp fried curry buns, hot dogs topped with pickled jalapeños, and savoury mentaiko potato rolls offer punchier flavours that make choosing difficult.

The plain loaves and sweet bakes share the same comforting, everyday appeal. Alongside soft, moist shokupan and flaky croissants sit neighbourhood classics: custard-cream buns, walnut bean-paste rolls, and cinnamon pastries. Homestyle treats like generously filled apple pies, Earl Grey chiffon cake, and brandy cake are suited for afternoon tea or small gifts.

The compact shop operates purely for takeaway, with PayPay accepted at the register. A morning bag of pastries can easily be carried over to nearby Otsukadai Park to enjoy on a bench, or taken home or to the desk to eat at leisure. Arriving early in the morning, when the shelves are at their fullest, makes a delightful detour on a morning stroll.