Tabelog ratingCENTRE THE BAKERY (セントル ザ・ベーカリー) has elevated Japanese milk bread, or shokupan, to an art form. The main attraction at its Ginza café is the tasting set, an interactive experience where you are presented with three distinct types of shokupan—a Japanese-style loaf (角食), a North American-style Pullman loaf, and an English-style loaf. You toast them to your liking on a personal toaster at your table, and sample them with a selection of premium butters and jams.
Reviewers consistently praise the exceptional texture of the bread—moist, soft, yet substantial. Beyond the tasting set, the French toast is frequently described as outstandingly rich and custardy. The sandwiches, especially the shrimp cutlet and egg varieties, are also popular, as are the loaves sold for take-out from the adjoining bakery counter.
The bakery's popularity comes with drawbacks. Expect long queues, especially at peak times, and be aware that popular items like the cheese toast can sell out early in the day. Some visitors find the prices high for what is essentially toast, and a few have noted that the coffee and drinks are not on the same level as the baked goods.
Despite this, for those who appreciate high-quality bread, the experience is considered good value. Reviewers in 2024 paid around ¥1,080–¥1,188 for a take-home loaf (2-kin size). A typical spend in the café is between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999 per person, though specialty items like a seasonal fruit sandwich can be significantly more, with one guest citing ¥3,300 for a strawberry sandwich.
- Getting There: Located in Ginza. It's a 1-minute walk from Exit 3 of Ginza-itchome Station (Yurakucho Line) or a 4-minute walk from JR Yurakucho Station.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted. Be prepared to queue.
- Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
- Language: English menus are available, and staff are often reported as helpful to international visitors.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Hours: The café may close early if bread sells out. On Tuesdays, only the take-out bakery is open.
- Smoking: The entire establishment is non-smoking.
- Parking: No parking available.
