Top 19 'Pancake-and-Sando' Breakfast Spots to make your foodie pilgrimage complete in Tokyo
Tokyo. The word itself conjures images of neon-drenched streets, serene temples, and an endless flurry of people. But what about the mornings? Before the city fully awakens, there's a quiet magic to be found, often on a plate. For the dedicated foodie, a Tokyo morning isn't about rushing to the first train; it's a sacred time for a pilgrimage to the altars of breakfast: the pancake house and the sandwich shop.
Forget everything you think you know about these breakfast staples. In Tokyo, they are elevated to an art form. Pancakes aren't just fluffy; they're ethereal, cloud-like soufflés that jiggle with impossible lightness. Sandwiches, or 'sandos' as they're lovingly called, are studies in precision and perfection, where every ingredient, from the pillowy shokupan (milk bread) to the meticulously placed filling, is a testament to Japanese craftsmanship.
This is your ultimate guide to that pilgrimage. We're diving deep into the city's best, from viral sensations to hidden neighbourhood gems. Whether you crave a gravity-defying stack of pancakes or a deceptively simple egg sando that will change your life, here are the 19 essential spots to complete your foodie journey in Tokyo.
The Pancake Pilgrimage
1. Flipper's (Shimo-kitazawa, Kichijoji, etc.)
If you've seen a video of impossibly jiggly pancakes on the internet, chances are they came from Flipper's. This spot is a titan in the world of soufflé pancakes, and for good reason. They call them "kiseki no pancake," or miracle pancakes, and the name fits. They are so light and airy, they feel like eating a sweet, custardy cloud.
The magic is in the batter, which is whipped to an incredible lightness and cooked slowly at a low temperature. The result is a pancake that melts in your mouth, served with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of their special maple-butter cream. The whole experience feels less like eating a hearty breakfast and more like indulging in a delicate dessert.
Pro-Tip: The queues can be legendary. Aim for a weekday morning right when they open to minimize your wait time. The "Plain" is the best way to experience the pure texture, but the "Fresh Fruits" version is a visual and culinary delight.
2. A Happy Pancake (Shiawase no Pancake) (Omotesando, Shinjuku, etc.)
Another heavyweight in the soufflé pancake scene, A Happy Pancake (or Shiawase no Pancake) offers a slightly different, but equally divine, experience. Their pancakes are made-to-order with no baking powder, relying solely on the power of whipped egg whites for their lift. This results in a texture that is both fluffy and moist, with a distinct eggy richness.
They serve their signature stack with a dollop of whipped butter made with Manuka honey from New Zealand, which adds a fragrant, floral sweetness that complements the rich pancakes perfectly. It’s a comforting, soul-soothing breakfast that lives up to its name.
Pro-Tip: Each order takes about 20 minutes to prepare, so settle in and be patient. The classic "Happy Pancake" with honey-butter is a must-try for first-timers.
3. Bills (Ginza, Omotesando)
Hailing from Australia, Bills has become a global brunch institution, and its Tokyo outposts are incredibly popular. They are famous for one thing: Ricotta Hotcakes. These are not the soufflé style; instead, they are thicker, more substantial, yet incredibly moist and fluffy, studded with pockets of creamy ricotta cheese.
Served as a stack of three with a fresh banana and a disc of honeycomb butter, these hotcakes are the definition of indulgence. As the butter melts, it creates a sweet, crunchy, and buttery sauce that soaks into every bite. It’s a sophisticated and deeply satisfying breakfast experience.
Pro-Tip: Bills is very popular for brunch, so making a reservation online is highly recommended, especially for the Omotesando location with its stunning views.
4. Gram Cafe & Pancakes (Harajuku, etc.)
Gram is a name you must know if you're on a quest for the most photogenic pancakes in Tokyo. They are famous for their "Premium Pancakes," a towering stack of three, thick, wobbly discs that look like they defy gravity. These are the pancakes that truly put the "jiggle" in the soufflé pancake trend.
The catch? These premium pancakes are only served at specific times each day (usually 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM) and are limited to a certain number of orders. The texture is unbelievably light and airy, and they come served simply with butter, syrup, and a side of cream, letting the magnificent texture shine.
Pro-Tip: You absolutely need to line up well before the serving time to get a ticket for the Premium Pancakes. Check the specific branch's schedule and plan your visit around it. It's a culinary event!
5. Micasadeco & Cafe (Harajuku)
Originating from Osaka, Micasadeco & Cafe has brought its trendy vibe and delicious ricotta cheese pancakes to the heart of Harajuku. The cafe itself is bright, stylish, and incredibly Instagrammable, with a relaxed, almost Californian vibe. It’s a wonderful place to escape the hustle of the city.
Their signature fluffy ricotta pancakes are a must-order. They are thick, pillowy, and have a wonderful creamy texture from the cheese folded into the batter. They have a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the accompanying fresh cream, syrup, and nuts. It’s a more refined and less eggy take on the fluffy pancake trend.
Pro-Tip: Besides their famous pancakes, they also offer a great selection of savory dishes and creative lattes, making it a perfect all-around brunch spot.
6. Riz Labo Kitchen (Omotesando)
For the gluten-free foodies, Riz Labo Kitchen is a dream come true. Tucked away in a quiet part of Omotesando, this charming cafe specializes in soufflé pancakes made from 100% Japanese rice flour. This simple substitution creates a unique texture that is incredibly light, soft, and slightly mochi-like or chewy at the center.
Their pancakes are beautifully presented, often with seasonal fruits and delicate creams. The flavors are subtle and clean, letting the quality of the ingredients speak for themselves. It’s a wonderful, guilt-free indulgence that proves gluten-free can be every bit as delicious.
Pro-Tip: The cafe is quite small, so be prepared for a potential wait. Check their Instagram for seasonal specials, which are always creative and beautifully crafted.
7. Eggs 'n Things (Harajuku, Ginza, etc.)
Bringing the aloha spirit from Hawaii to Tokyo, Eggs 'n Things is an institution known for one thing: a mountain of whipped cream. Their pancakes are more traditional American-style buttermilk pancakes, but they are served with a tower of light whipped cream that is almost as tall as the plate is wide.
It’s an over-the-top, fun, and delicious experience. You can choose from a variety of toppings like strawberries, bananas, or pineapple, and douse the whole thing in coconut, guava, or maple syrup from the bottles on your table. It’s pure, unadulterated breakfast joy.
Pro-Tip: Don't be intimidated by the mountain of whipped cream; it's surprisingly light and not overly sweet. This is a great spot for groups and families.
8. Cafe Aaliya (Shinjuku)
This is a hidden gem, located in the basement of a building in the bustling Shinjuku area. Cafe Aaliya is famous for what many consider to be the best French toast in Tokyo, but their "pancakes" are a must-try because they blur the line between the two. They are made by soaking thick slices of bread in an eggy batter and pan-frying them to golden perfection.
The result is a dish with a crispy, caramelized exterior and a soft, custardy, pudding-like interior. It’s incredibly rich and decadent. Served simply with butter and syrup, it’s a unique and unforgettable breakfast dish that stands out from the soufflé crowd.
Pro-Tip: It’s a classic kissaten (old-school coffee shop) with a cozy, retro vibe. It's a great place to relax and escape the sensory overload of Shinjuku.
9. Sarutahiko Coffee The Bridge (Shinjuku)
For those who believe that breakfast is incomplete without a truly exceptional cup of coffee, Sarutahiko is your destination. This is a third-wave coffee roaster first and foremost, but their flagship "The Bridge" location in Shinjuku also serves a fantastic food menu, including some delightful pancakes.
Their "Hotcakes" are classic, no-fuss, and perfectly executed. They are fluffy, golden-brown, and have a wonderful buttermilk tang. Paired with one of their expertly brewed single-origin drip coffees or a silky latte, it’s a match made in breakfast heaven. This is the place for the discerning coffee lover who also appreciates a good pancake.
Pro-Tip: The Bridge location is on the 8th floor of the Shinjuku Lumine 1 department store, offering great views over the station. It's a surprisingly calm oasis.
The Sando Sanctuary
10. Centre The Bakery (Ginza)
This place is a temple dedicated to shokupan. Centre The Bakery is a high-end bakery where you can buy incredible loaves of milk bread, but the real experience is dining in at their attached cafe. Their signature offering is the "Toast Set," where you can choose different types of their bread to toast yourself at your table with a selection of high-end toasters.
But for the sando lover, their menu is paradise. The Katsu Sando, made with a thick, juicy pork cutlet and their pillowy bread, is legendary. The Fruit Sando is also a work of art, with beautiful seasonal fruits and lightly sweetened cream. Dining here is an education in how a simple loaf of bread can be elevated to gourmet status.
Pro-Tip: Expect a long queue, often starting before they even open. It is absolutely worth the wait. Go for the Katsu Sando; you won't regret it.
11. Lawson / 7-Eleven / Family Mart (Everywhere)
It might seem strange to include a convenience store on a list of top foodie spots, but to ignore the konbini egg sando is to miss a crucial part of Japan's food culture. The Tamago Sando from Lawson or 7-Eleven is a masterclass in simplicity and perfection.
It consists of a creamy, rich egg salad with whole and mashed egg yolks, seasoned with Kewpie mayo, sandwiched between two crustless, impossibly soft slices of shokupan. It’s cheap, ubiquitous, and consistently delicious. It's the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack that has won over locals and tourists alike.
Pro-Tip: Don't just stick to the egg sando. The konbini Katsu Sando and Strawberry Sando (when in season) are also fantastic and offer incredible value.
12. Camelback Sandwich & Espresso (Shibuya)
Tucked away in a quiet backstreet near Yoyogi Park, Camelback is a tiny, hip sandwich stand that punches way above its weight. They are known for their superb coffee and their inventive, delicious sandos. This isn't your traditional sandwich shop; the flavors are creative and the execution is flawless.
Their most famous creation is the "Sushiya no Tamago" sando, which translates to "sushi shop's egg." It features a thick slice of dashi-seasoned tamagoyaki (rolled omelette), a shiso leaf, and a smear of wasabi-infused butter on a toasted baguette. It's a brilliant fusion of Japanese flavors in sandwich form.
Pro-Tip: The shop is standing-room only. Grab your sando and coffee and head to nearby Yoyogi Park for a perfect picnic breakfast.
13. King George Sandwich Bar (Daikanyama)
If you're craving a sandwich that's hearty, healthy, and packed to the brim with fresh ingredients, King George is your spot. Inspired by New York delis, their sandwiches are massive, multi-layered creations that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
They use toasted rye or dark bread and stuff it with a mountain of fillings. The "King George" is a classic with turkey, provolone, and veggies, while the "The Mex" is a spicy delight. It's a refreshing change of pace from the more delicate Japanese sandos and perfect for when you have a serious appetite.
Pro-Tip: The sandwiches are huge, so you can easily share one between two people if you're not starving. The rooftop seating area is lovely on a nice day.
14. Kayaba Coffee (Yanaka)
Step back in time at Kayaba Coffee, a beloved kissaten that has been serving the quiet Yanaka neighborhood since 1938. Housed in a traditional two-story wooden building, the atmosphere is pure nostalgia. This is the place to experience the soul of old Tokyo.
Their signature dish is the simple yet iconic Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando). Unlike the konbini version, this one features a fluffy, warm, folded omelette tucked into lightly toasted bread with a hint of Japanese mustard. It's comforting, perfectly balanced, and best enjoyed with a siphon coffee while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Pro-Tip: Explore the surrounding Yanaka area before or after your visit. It’s one of the few parts of Tokyo that survived the war and retains a charming, old-world feel.
15. Ippuku & Matcha (Ginza)
For the most aesthetically pleasing sando, head to the basement of the Tokyu Plaza Ginza. Ippuku & Matcha specializes in beautiful, high-quality Fruit Sandos. These aren't just sandwiches; they're edible works of art.
They use premium seasonal fruits—perfectly ripe strawberries, kiwis, and mangoes—and arrange them in stunning patterns within a lightly sweetened, whipped cream-like filling. The bread is, of course, soft and pillowy. Each bite is a burst of fresh, juicy flavor balanced by the creamy filling.
Pro-Tip: These are designed for takeaway. They come beautifully packaged, making them a perfect gift or a special treat to enjoy in a nearby park.
16. Tonkatsu Maisen (Aoyama)
While primarily a famous restaurant for full tonkatsu meals, the takeaway kiosk at Maisen's Aoyama flagship store sells what is widely considered the king of Katsu Sandos. This is a spot my friend Goh Ling Yong insisted I visit, and he was spot-on about its iconic status. It’s a pilgrimage site for pork lovers.
Their sando features a tender, juicy pork cutlet, breaded and fried to perfection, slathered in their sweet and tangy signature sauce, and sandwiched between soft white bread. The secret is the quality of the pork, which is so tender you can "cut it with your chopsticks." It's simple, elegant, and utterly delicious.
Pro-Tip: The takeaway kiosk is right outside the main restaurant. Grab a box of the classic "Hire Katsu Sando" (pork fillet) to go. It's the perfect high-end picnic food.
17. Pelican Cafe (Asakusa)
Pelican is a legendary bakery that has been making one thing since 1942: perfect shokupan. Their bread is so popular that it sells out daily. A few years ago, they opened Pelican Cafe just down the street, allowing fans to enjoy their famous bread in various prepared forms.
The menu is simple, showcasing the bread itself. The toast is a must-try, but their sandos are where the magic happens. The "Ham Cutlet Sandwich" is a standout—a thick, crispy ham cutlet with shredded cabbage on their phenomenally soft, slightly chewy toast. It’s a testament to how incredible a sandwich can be when the bread is the star.
Pro-Tip: Put your name down on the list outside the cafe, then explore the neighborhood. The wait can be long, but it moves faster than you'd think.
18. Coffee House Rouen (Oimachi)
If Kayaba Coffee is a trip back to the Showa era, Rouen is a fully preserved time capsule. This dark, moody kissaten is filled with ornate lamps, velvet chairs, and the smell of siphon coffee. It feels like walking onto the set of a vintage film.
Their sandos are classic kissaten-style fare, perfectly executed and served with a side of nostalgia. The "Mixed Sandwich" is a great choice, featuring layers of egg, ham, and fresh vegetables. The experience is about more than just the food; it's about sitting in a piece of living history and watching the master at work.
Pro-Tip: This is a smoking-allowed establishment, which is part of its old-school charm but something to be aware of if you're sensitive to smoke.
19. Buy Me Stand (Shibuya, Motomachi)
For a taste of retro Americana, head to Buy Me Stand. With its mint-green tiled interior and vintage decor, this spot channels a 1950s American diner vibe and specializes in one thing: incredible grilled cheese sandwiches.
Their signature sandwich, "Apple Cheeks," combines grilled pork, melted cheese, and caramelized onions with slices of apple on rye bread. It’s a glorious, gooey, sweet-and-savory mess. They press their sandwiches until the bread is perfectly crispy and the cheese is molten. It's the ultimate comfort food sando.
Pro-Tip: Pair your sandwich with one of their creamy soups or a classic coffee. The Shibuya location is a great place to refuel after a day of shopping.
Your Pilgrimage Awaits
Tokyo's breakfast scene is a universe of flavor and texture, a place where humble dishes are transformed into culinary masterpieces. From the lightest, fluffiest pancakes you'll ever encounter to sandos crafted with mind-boggling precision, this city offers a morning meal for every mood and every palate.
This list is just the beginning of your journey. Each of these spots offers a unique window into the heart of Japanese food culture. So, on your next trip, set your alarm a little earlier, skip the hotel buffet, and embark on a pilgrimage of your own. You'll be rewarded with some of the most memorable bites of your life.
What are your go-to pancake or sando spots in Tokyo? Did we miss any of your favorites? Share your recommendations in the comments below—we'd love to add them to our list
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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