The Charm of Freshly Baked Melon Pan in Nishi-ojima
Published: October 28, 2026
※Prices are subject to change from those in effect at the time of the interview. Please contact the store directly for the latest information.
“BAKERIES LAB. Nishi-Ojima Store” is part of a bakery chain with locations mainly across the Kanto region.
The official opening time is 6:30 a.m., but a small selection of freshly baked bread may be available from around 5:30 a.m.
For this interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Ms. Uchida, who works at BAKERIES LAB. Nishi-Ojima Store. When the shop opened in her neighborhood, she was looking for a new opportunity where she could stay active and enjoy meeting people. She decided to call BAKERIES LAB. and was pleased to learn the company welcomed people of all ages, especially those comfortable working early in the morning. After trying their delicious melon pan, she became even more excited about joining the team.
At “BAKERIES LAB. Nishi-Ojima Store,” ingredients such as flour, butter, fresh cream, and honey are carefully selected from around the world. The dough is then left to ferment slowly for a long time.
Located on a busy avenue right next to the station, the bakery catches the eye of commuters, many of whom grab some bread before hopping on a train to their destination. It is no wonder that the bread often sells out in less than two hours! Some varieties are baked again throughout the day, so you may still find freshly baked bread later on. I would still recommend stopping by early whenever possible, just in case your favorites sell out before you get a chance to try them.
“Ano Melonpan,” the bakery’s No. 1 most popular item
One bite of their melon pan, and you will understand why it is the bakery’s best-selling item. Slightly crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy inside, the crumb almost melts apart as you break it open. The sweet aroma of freshly baked Japanese melon pan drifting through the street is hard to resist, making you want to follow the smell straight to the bakery. There are always at least three different flavors to choose from!
“Croissant”
The croissant is another must-try, with its sweet, buttery aroma and the delicate, flaky texture you can only get from freshly baked pastry. Many of the bakery’s customers are foreign residents from the neighborhood and tourists, and some locals have even become regulars!
“Apple Pie”
The generous chunks of apple inside the pie give it a gentle, natural sweetness you will remember for days. Ms. Uchida is happy to have found a job she truly enjoys, and she loves chatting with the many different people who stop by the bakery. Talking with her is just as delightful as tasting her freshly baked treats!
Being able to buy freshly baked bread early in the morning is a convenient option for people on their way to work or school.
The shop also accepts most cashless payment methods, making purchases quick and easy.
There is something really special about enjoying freshly baked bread, knowing each piece has been made by hand with care and affection. Ms. Uchida even talks to the bread as she puts it in the oven, gently encouraging it to “grow big and turn out delicious!” It is a lovely little detail that makes these breads feel even more special, especially when they cost only around 300 yen each!
“BAKERIES LAB. Nishi-Ojima Store” is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Nishi-ojima Station.
For now, BAKERIES LAB. Nishi-Ojima Store is a small street-level shop without seating, but they hope to expand in the near future so customers can enjoy a coffee with their bread. This may mean moving to a new location, so do not miss the chance to try her freshly baked treats while she is still in Koto Ward! Remember: when that delicious smell reaches you, you will know you have arrived!
≪English Reporter Journalist Profile≫
・Name：Diana
・Nationality：Spain
・Hobbies：Dancing, Bon Odori, DIY, and Crafts
※Information is based on October 2026. Prices, operating hours, and other details may change. Please verify with the class directly.
※All amounts mentioned in the article are inclusive of taxes.
