Yokohama

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Cafes and Bakeries

Sections

1. Local Specialties in Yokohama Cafes and Bakeries

Yokohamaโ€™s food culture is influenced by its history as one of Japanโ€™s first international ports, blending Japanese and Western flavors. Here are some local specialties to look out for:

  • Yokohama Cheesecake: A light and fluffy cheesecake, often sold in small, individually wrapped portions. Many bakeries in Yokohama specialize in this treat.
  • Anpan: A sweet bread filled with red bean paste, a classic Japanese bakery item. Some bakeries in Yokohama offer unique twists, such as matcha or chestnut fillings.
  • Shumai Manju: Inspired by Yokohamaโ€™s Chinatown, this is a steamed bun filled with pork or other savory fillings.
  • Yokohama Navy Curry Bread: A nod to the cityโ€™s naval history, this is a deep-fried bread filled with rich curry.
  • Japanese Soufflรฉ Pancakes: Fluffy, jiggly pancakes served in many cafes, often topped with fresh cream, fruit, or syrup.
  • Matcha and Hojicha Desserts: Many cafes serve desserts and drinks made with matcha (green tea) or hojicha (roasted green tea), reflecting Japanโ€™s tea culture.

2. Average Costs

Dining in Yokohamaโ€™s cafes and bakeries is generally affordable, with options for every budget. Hereโ€™s a breakdown of typical costs:

  • Cafes:
    • Coffee or tea: ยฅ400โ€“ยฅ800
    • Desserts (e.g., cakes, parfaits): ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,200
    • Light meals (e.g., sandwiches, pasta): ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,500
  • Bakeries:
    • Bread and pastries: ยฅ150โ€“ยฅ500 per item
    • Specialty items (e.g., cheesecakes, curry bread): ยฅ300โ€“ยฅ800

3. Must-Visit Cafes and Bakeries in Yokohama

Here are some highly recommended spots to explore:

Cafes

  1. Cafe Elliott Avenue

    • Specialty: Seattle-style coffee and homemade cakes.
    • Location: Near Yamashita Park.
    • Why Visit: Known for its cozy atmosphere and high-quality coffee, this cafe is perfect for a relaxing break.
    • Price Range: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,200.

  2. Chano-ma Yokohama

    • Specialty: Japanese-Western fusion dishes and desserts.
    • Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.
    • Why Visit: Famous for its "bed seating" where you can lounge while enjoying your meal.
    • Price Range: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000.

  3. Motomachi Coffee

    • Specialty: Traditional Japanese-style coffee and toast sets.
    • Location: Motomachi Shopping Street.
    • Why Visit: A nostalgic cafe with a retro vibe, perfect for experiencing Japanโ€™s kissaten (traditional coffee shop) culture.
    • Price Range: ยฅ800โ€“ยฅ1,500.

  4. Bills Yokohama

    • Specialty: Famous for its ricotta pancakes and all-day breakfast menu.
    • Location: Landmark Plaza.
    • Why Visit: A globally renowned cafe offering a luxurious brunch experience with a view of Minato Mirai.
    • Price Range: ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ3,000.

Bakeries

  1. Pompadour Bakery

    • Specialty: French-style bread and pastries.
    • Location: Multiple locations, including Motomachi and Yokohama Station.
    • Why Visit: Established in Yokohama in 1947, this bakery is a local favorite for its authentic French bread.
    • Price Range: ยฅ200โ€“ยฅ500 per item.

  2. Bashamichi Jubankan

    • Specialty: Retro-style cakes and baked goods.
    • Location: Bashamichi area.
    • Why Visit: A charming bakery with a nostalgic atmosphere, offering beautifully crafted cakes and cookies.
    • Price Range: ยฅ300โ€“ยฅ800 per item.

  3. Le Pain de Joรซl Robuchon

    • Specialty: High-end French bread and pastries.
    • Location: Queenโ€™s Square Yokohama.
    • Why Visit: A luxurious bakery by the world-famous chef Joรซl Robuchon, perfect for indulging in premium baked goods.
    • Price Range: ยฅ400โ€“ยฅ1,000 per item.

  4. Hara Donuts

    • Specialty: Handmade tofu-based donuts.
    • Location: Near Yokohama Station.
    • Why Visit: A healthier take on donuts, with unique flavors like kinako (roasted soybean flour) and yuzu.
    • Price Range: ยฅ150โ€“ยฅ300 per donut.

4. Cultural Dining Norms

When visiting cafes and bakeries in Yokohama, keep the following cultural norms in mind:

  • Takeout vs. Eat-in: Many bakeries offer takeout, but some also have small seating areas. If you plan to eat in, check if thereโ€™s a designated space.
  • Queueing: Popular spots may have lines, especially on weekends. Itโ€™s customary to wait patiently.
  • Payment: Most cafes and bakeries accept cash, and some accept credit cards or IC cards (e.g., Suica, Pasmo). Always carry some cash, as smaller establishments may not accept cards.
  • Self-service: In some cafes, you may need to order at the counter and pick up your food when itโ€™s ready.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Japanese cafes are often quiet and relaxing. Keep conversations at a low volume to respect other patrons.
  • No Tipping: Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so the price you see is the price you pay.

5. Unique Experiences in Yokohama

  • Yokohama Chinatown: Explore bakeries offering Chinese-inspired treats like mooncakes and steamed buns. Donโ€™t miss the famous pork buns at Kiyoken.
  • Red Brick Warehouse: This historic building houses several trendy cafes and bakeries, offering a mix of traditional and modern treats.
  • Seasonal Offerings: Many cafes and bakeries in Yokohama feature seasonal items, such as sakura (cherry blossom) pastries in spring or chestnut desserts in autumn.

6. Tips for Exploring Cafes and Bakeries

  • Timing: Visit in the morning for the freshest bread and pastries. Some popular items may sell out by afternoon.
  • Language: While many menus have pictures or English translations, learning a few basic Japanese phrases (e.g., "kore o kudasai" โ€“ "Iโ€™ll have this, please") can be helpful.
  • Local Recommendations: Ask locals or staff for their recommendationsโ€”they often know the best items to try.

Yokohamaโ€™s cafes and bakeries offer a delightful mix of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences. Whether youโ€™re savoring a traditional Japanese sweet or indulging in a European-inspired pastry, youโ€™re sure to find something memorable. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Yokohama!