Tabelog ratingCHELsEA BAGEL (チェルシーベーグル) has earned a loyal following in Hiroshima for one thing: its signature bagels, known for a remarkably dense and chewy texture that sets them apart. This is a small, takeout-only operation, but one that locals line up for.
Fans consistently praise the sheer weight and substance of each bagel, packed with generous amounts of inventive fillings. The selection ranges from savoury options to dessert-like creations, encouraging customers to buy several at once. Popular choices often include rich chocolate, a combination of chestnut, rum-raisin and cream cheese, pumpkin, and savoury bacon with grain mustard. The bagels are also said to reheat well, so many people buy extras to freeze.
The main challenge is getting your hands on them. The shop is a small counter on the second floor of the Takada Building and can be easy to miss. Be prepared for queues, as it's not uncommon for the most popular items to sell out within an hour of the 11:00 opening. A few reviewers note occasional hard spots on the crust, but criticism is rare.
Reviewers consistently describe the bagels as excellent value. Recent prices were typically between ¥250 and ¥380 per bagel, with examples like the Bacon & Grain Mustard at ¥320 and the Chestnut & Cream Cheese variety at ¥380. One reviewer noted a purchase of nine bagels cost ¥2,870.
- Getting There: The shop is on the 2nd floor of the Takada Building, about a 4-minute walk from the Fukuro Machi tram stop.
- Payment: Payment is by cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Booking: This is a walk-in, takeout-only counter. Reservations are not available. Arrive early, as bagels often sell out completely.
- Seating: There is no seating available.
- Queues: Expect queues, particularly around opening time, as many customers buy in large quantities.
- Parking: No parking available.
