Ichigenya

Beneath the sheer, delicately griddled wheat crust of Ichigenya's kintsuba lies a compact block of sweet adzuki bean paste seasoned with a distinct touch of salt. Rather than letting sugar dominate, the seasoning sharpens the natural character of the beans, leaving an agreeably clean finish. It accompanies a cup of hot green tea smoothly, but also partners remarkably well with black coffee.

Equally prominent on the counter is the shop's Ichigen Monaka. Sandwiched inside crisp, fragrant rice wafers, the Dainagon adzuki filling is offered in its classic form as well as with a soft core of gyuhi rice cake, giving customers an excuse to compare textures. Individual pieces can be bought starting from 1, while boxed sets are assembled for gifts, making it just as suitable for an afternoon treat as for a thoughtful souvenir.

The shop in Edogawa Ward's Chuo district operates on weekday late afternoons and Saturday afternoons. Purchases are handled best by bringing cash along.