Beradonna

Beradonna’s shortcake is neatly made, with balanced sweetness and plenty of strawberries tucked inside. A little heart-shaped chocolate sits on top, a small detail that speaks to the care behind the baking. The pastry chef trained at Le Cordon Bleu, and the cakes are intricate despite their modest size. The rich, full-bodied opera cake is among the favourites.

In Midori-cho, Musashino, Beradonna is a welcoming café for a quiet pause. At lunchtime, a casual set of sandwiches with a mini salad and drink makes it easy to stop in for a quick meal, even alone. There is a good selection of tea as well as coffee, and the combination of cake and a hot drink makes for a pleasant break with a book.

Takeaway is also available, including baked treats. Animal-shaped cookies and lemon cookies are among the sweets that make appealing gifts or accompaniments to tea.