japan 2018

Tolo Coffee & Bakery by Mary Pavlou

Tucked away in a quaint residential area in Daita, Setagaya, one could easily lose their way trying to find Tolo Coffee & Bakery, I know I did. What’s found inside the unassuming two-story building are Ghibli-inspired treats and a relaxed atmosphere that’s appealing to your sweet tooth and soul.

トロコーヒーアンドベーカリー

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I became eager to visit this cafe after the Totoro choux cream gained popularity on social media. Luckily, we were able to treat ourselves one afternoon to unwind after a busy morning in Shibuya.

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Upon arrival, the attendant placed our name on a waitlist (we waited roughly twenty minutes). No reservation is required to visit the upstairs cafe, but these famous treats are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Since we were some of the last patrons visiting that day they asked us to pick our cream puff flavor of choice.

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If you’re looking to kill some time while you wait, there’s a small shop on the bottom floor. Inside you’ll find to-go cream puffs and souvenir cookie tins to bring home.

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A glimpse inside the bakery.

A glimpse inside the bakery.

Greeted by Totoro no matter where you go.

Greeted by Totoro no matter where you go.

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The upstairs cafe didn’t necessarily feel like a Ghibli character cafe, rather it felt like the type of place you’d see in a Ghibli movie - a cozy home that belonged to the local baker with an affinity for botany and forest spirits. You know?

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My sister and I both ordered our own cream puff and latte to match. Each little Totoro comes with a unique candy hat that represents the puffed filling inside.

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More likely than not, you'll want to try more than one flavor, and these cream puffs are sharable. Here my sister is generously destroying/sharing her hazelnut choux cream.

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The cream puffs are extraordinarily cute, a beautiful balance of textures, and not overly sweet. My chocolate cream paired well with matcha latte I ordered.

Chocolate

Chocolate

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I am not the first to recommend Tolo Coffee & Bakery, and I know I won’t be the last. That being said, if you’re a fan of Ghibli or enjoy a delicious cream puff then make this a priority the next time you’re in Japan. I know I am excited to visit again in the future and try more flavors (I heard the strawberry is the best!)

You can check out their website and location here @ Tolo Tokyo

Till next time,
Mary! (❛▿❛✿)