B2D

On a quiet side street in Higashi-Ueno, B2D is a bakery where distinctive breads are neatly displayed in a calm, understated setting. Its whole-grain country loaf pairs a deeply aromatic, robust crust with a moist, chewy crumb. Alongside savoury breads with a pleasant tang, there are sandwiches such as jambon-fromage, filled with ham and cheese and made to let the flavour of the bread come through with every bite.

There is also a tempting range of sweeter options for an afternoon treat or a break during a walk. Salted an-butter, where a savoury roll brings out the sweetness of chunky red bean paste, and honey toast with a crisp, browned surface are both small but satisfying. Other combinations worth lingering over include hard bread with raisins and cream cheese, and croissants with a pronounced buttery flavour.

Bread is available to take away, or you can stay inside with a drink and enjoy a moment surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked bread. Popular breads can be in short supply at certain times, so it is worth planning your stop with the timing of your preferred bake in mind.