A Cream Puff Lover’s Paradise
Published: November 10, 2024
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“Choux lab,” a takeout-only sweets shop specializing in cream puffs, opened in June 2024.
They take great care in their pastry dough, offering various types, including choux pastry, cookie dough, sablé dough, and Aragosta choux, a specialty from Naples, Italy which is sold only 2 days a month.
It’s quite rare to find a pastry shop entirely dedicated to cream puffs. While you’ll find classic choux, some recipes are exclusive to this store, making it a must-visit for cream puff lovers.
The owner, Mr. Watarai, has been dedicated to making cream puffs for many years. True to the name “choux lab,” he continuously experiments with new creations, aiming to bring joy to customers through his cream puffs.
From the counter, you can catch a glimpse of the large, well-equipped lab where all the magic happens. He shared that his day starts early—around 6 AM—to ensure each choux is freshly made to perfection.
Made with simplicity, each bite allows you to savor the rich and deep flavors fully.
While the cream puffs are best enjoyed fresh, some items have a longer shelf life, making them perfect for gifts or later indulgence. Among them, the financiers are particularly popular!
Sweet Red Bean Paste and Cream Cheese
A generous amount of fresh cream is sandwiched between choux pastry, with a layer of cream cheese in the center and sweet red bean paste underneath.
This cream puff is a delightful fusion of traditional and modern flavors. The smooth, slightly sweet red bean paste pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of the cream cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying filling. It’s a unique twist on a classic that offers both comfort and a touch of innovation.
Caramel Chocolate and Raspberry
The limited-time “Caramel Chocolate and Raspberry” features a rich gold chocolate cream with caramel chocolate inside. It’s topped with crispy chocolate-coated feuilletine and a pipette of raspberry sauce inserted into the sablé dough.
This is a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. The pipette of raspberry sauce—an inventive idea I’ve never seen before. It lets you customize the tartness to your liking, making each bite a little different.
Baked Cheesecake
The Baked Cheesecake changes depending on the season, occasionally becoming a Basque Cheesecake or sometimes featuring pistachios.
This cheesecake is rich and creamy, with a perfectly balanced sweetness that melts in your mouth. The choux pastry adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, velvety filling.
“Choux lab” is hugely popular on social media and through word of mouth. Baking times vary depending on the day’s sales and pace, but right after the 10 AM opening, there’s a high chance of enjoying freshly made treats. Plus, visiting early gives you more variety to choose from!
Whether you’re a cream puff lover or just looking to try top-quality sweets, “choux lab” is worth a visit. The shop regularly introduces new creations, especially during seasonal celebrations like Valentine’s Day or Hina Matsuri—perfect occasions to stop by and discover something special!
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Grégoire Renais
・Age：Thirties
・Nationality：France
・Hobbies：Hiking, Photography (Landscapes, Japanese cultural events)
※Information is based on February 2025. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the store directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
