Nestled in the heart of Brookline, Massachusetts, Japonaise Bakery & Cafe offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and French pastry traditions. Established in 1985 and rebranded in 1991, this charming bakery has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. With its enticing array of baked goods, from sweet to savory, and a cozy cafe atmosphere, Japonaise Bakery & Cafe is a culinary gem worth exploring. In this article, we’ll delve into the comprehensive Japonaise Bakery & Cafe menu, highlighting popular items, pricing, and hours of operation to provide you with a detailed guide to this delectable destination.
Bakery Menu
Pastries and Breads
Japonaise Bakery is renowned for its pastries and breads, which showcase a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Some of the standout items include:
- Cream Pan Man: Japanese sweet dough baked with custard cream ($3.00)
- Boston Cream: A Boston favorite filled with custard cream and orange zest ($4.50)
- Totoro (Cream/Chocolate): Sweet dough with a melon pan cookie crust, filled with chocolate or plain custard cream ($5.50)
- Chocolate Horn: Sweet dough filled with chocolate custard cream and topped with Belgian chocolate ($4.50)
- Curry Pan: A savory fried bread filled with curry ($5.00)
Croissants and Cookies
The bakery’s croissants are a must-try, with options ranging from classic to uniquely flavored varieties:
- Azuki Cream Croissant: Filled with red bean paste and freshly whipped cream ($5.50)
- Matcha Azuki Cream Croissant: Filled with red bean paste and matcha cream, dusted with Japanese matcha powder ($6.00)
- Ichigo Cream Croissant: A triangle croissant filled with custard cream and strawberries ($4.50)
- Plain Croissant: A simple yet delicious option, voted “Best of Boston” ($4.00)
- Chocolate Croissant: A flaky croissant filled with Belgian chocolate ($3.50)
Cakes and Specialty Items
The bakery also offers an array of cakes and specialty items, perfect for any occasion:
- Japonaise Green Tea Cake: A light and airy cake with a subtle green tea flavor
- Cheesecake: Available with homemade strawberry jam glaze
- Whole Cakes: Including Strawberry Shortcake, African Queen, and White Chocolate Cheesecake
Cafe Menu
In addition to their bakery items, Japonaise Bakery & Cafe serves a variety of beverages and cafe treats:
- Coffee and Espresso Drinks
- Teas and Hot Chocolate
- Smoothies and Milk Shakes
- Assorted Boba Fresh Fruit Shakes
Prices
The prices at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe are reasonable, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship of their offerings. Pastries range from $2.50 to $6.00, while cakes and specialty items are priced between $4.00 and $6.00. Beverages vary from $3.00 to $5.50, making it an affordable yet indulgent treat for any budget.
Hours of Operation
Japonaise Bakery & Cafe operates with convenient hours to accommodate both early birds and late risers:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular item at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe?
The most popular item at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe is the Totoro pastry, a delightful treat that combines the charm of Totoro with delicious pastry cream filling. Other favorites include the matcha cream bun and the spicy salmon onigiri.
Do they offer any gluten-free options?
Yes, Japonaise Bakery & Cafe offers several gluten-free options. These include a variety of ice creams like green tea, red bean, and coconut, as well as some cakes and cookies. Always check with the staff for the latest gluten-free offerings.
Are there any vegan options available?
Japonaise Bakery & Cafe does provide some vegan options. These include fruit-based smoothies and some tea varieties. However, their baked goods typically contain dairy and eggs, so it’s best to ask the staff for specific vegan choices.
Can I place a custom order for a cake?
Yes, custom orders for cakes are welcome at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe. They offer a range of cakes including the Japonaise Green Tea Mousse Cake and the Strawberry Shortcake. You can customize your order according to your preferences and dietary needs.
Do they serve Japanese grocery items?
Japonaise Bakery & Cafe also stocks a selection of Japanese grocery items. These include instant noodles, chips, crackers, cookies, and assorted Pocky. This allows customers to enjoy a variety of Japanese snacks and essentials along with their bakery treats.
What are the busiest times at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe?
The busiest times at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe are typically during the weekends and late afternoons. If you prefer a quieter visit, try going in the early morning or on weekdays. This will ensure a more relaxed experience and quicker service.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for a rich croissant, a savory curry pan, or a refreshing smoothie, Japonaise Bakery & Cafe has something to satisfy every craving. Their commitment to blending Japanese and French baking traditions results in unique and flavorful creations that keep customers coming back for more. Plan your visit today and experience the delightful offerings at Japonaise Bakery & Cafe.
