Lee’s Bread, tucked down a tiny alley beside the train tracks, is a cosy sourdough enclave run by an American lady and her husband. Here, you’ll find old Japanese ladies and families alike buying loaves and loaves of bread; it’s definitely a favourite among locals. While there are some seats available outside, do note that this is mainly a take-out place!
There’s a great selection of mostly Western breads – the bakery specialises in sourdough breads, but also does smaller snack breads, baguette and bagel sandwiches, and seasonal specials like stollen.
The cardamom brioche buns are one of the most popular items, but if you want a more substantial snack, I’d recommend a focaccia slice – the flavours change often and this might not always be available, but the vegetable focaccia, topped with eggplants, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini and more, is the perfect breakfast.
Do note that they might not help slice your bread (quite a few bakeries in Japan will decline to do this), as it’s freshly baked each morning and usually too soft to cut without squishing.
