Nagoya Specialty "Ogura Toast"—A Delicious Sweet Born from Morning Culture
When you think of Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, you think of the famous morning culture.
The most popular among these is the "Ogura Toast".
This delightful gourmet dish features crispy toast topped with a generous amount of ogura an (red bean paste) and butter, offering a sweet and savory flavor.
This article will delve into the charm, origins, and recommended places to try Ogura Toast!
What is Ogura Toast?—A Unique Toast Originating from Nagoya
1. Characteristics of Ogura Toast
Ogura Toast is a simple dish made by spreading ogura an (sweetened red bean paste) and butter on toasted bread.
The saltiness of the butter and the sweetness of the ogura an complement each other perfectly, making it an excellent match with coffee!
2. Nagoya Morning Culture and Ogura Toast
In Nagoya, it is common to find "morning service" where you get toast and eggs with a cup of coffee.
Among these, the most popular toast menu item is Ogura Toast.
It is now widely offered in cafes and coffee shops throughout Nagoya.
The History of Ogura Toast—How Was It Born?
1. Born from Nagoya's Coffee Shop Culture
Nagoya has long had a developed coffee shop culture, and in the early Showa period, there was already a habit of spreading butter or jam on toast.
Adding the Japanese element "ogura an" marked the beginning of Ogura Toast.
2. The Birthplace is "Mitsuha"
There are various theories about the origin of Ogura Toast, but it is said to have been first served at a coffee shop called "Mitsuha" in Nagoya around 1950.
This combination spread by word of mouth, becoming a classic morning staple in Nagoya today.
Where to Eat Ogura Toast in Nagoya! Recommended Coffee Shops
1. Komeda Coffee (Nationwide)
At the coffee chain "Komeda Coffee", which originated in Nagoya, you can enjoy a simple Ogura Toast.
The fact that it's available nationwide makes it even more appealing!
- Access: Many locations around Nagoya Station
- Recommended Point: Soft bread and plenty of ogura an
2. Cafe Yoshino (Within Nagoya City)
A place where you can enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional retro coffee shop.
The morning set comes with boiled eggs and salad!
- Access: About 15 minutes by car from Nagoya Station
- Recommended Point: Classic Ogura Toast in a traditional coffee shop
3. Cafe Lyon (Near Nagoya Station)
A coffee shop offering "all-day morning service".
You can enjoy Ogura Toast and coffee at your preferred time!
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from Nagoya Station
- Recommended Point: Enjoy morning service at any time of the day
Tips for Enjoying Ogura Toast Deliciously
1. Thoroughly Melt Butter on Warm Toast
By spreading butter on warm toast, you achieve a rich and flavorful taste!
2. Generously Spread Ogura An
The sweetness of the ogura an and the saltiness of the butter create a perfect balance, so the key is to spread it generously.
3. Enjoy with Coffee
The bitterness of coffee enhances the sweetness of Ogura Toast.
It pairs excellently with black coffee!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access to Nagoya
- From Tokyo: About 1 hour 40 minutes by Shinkansen
- From Osaka: About 50 minutes by Shinkansen
- From Kyoto: About 35 minutes by Shinkansen
2. Price Range of Ogura Toast
- General Price: 400 yen–700 yen (depending on the coffee shop)
- Morning Set: 500 yen–800 yen (with coffee)
3. Recommended Time to Enjoy
- Morning: Best time to enjoy authentic Ogura Toast!
- Cafe Time: Some places offer it during the day or evening as well
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Ogura Toast is a local gourmet originating from Nagoya.
- The sweetness of ogura an and butter's saltiness are a perfect match.
- Experience morning culture at coffee shops in Nagoya.
- Available at Komeda Coffee and traditional coffee shops!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Ogura Toast taste like?
A: The sweetness of ogura an and the saltiness of butter create a perfect balance, offering a taste that anko (red bean) lovers will adore!
Q: Where can I eat Ogura Toast?
A: It can be enjoyed at most coffee shops in Nagoya city.
Especially recommended are Komeda Coffee and retro coffee shops!
Q: What is the best time to eat Ogura Toast?
A: While it's classic to eat it for breakfast, many places offer it during the day for cafe time as well!
In Conclusion
If you visit Nagoya, don't miss the chance to try the local gourmet "Ogura Toast".
Enjoy the unique flavors that are distinctive to Nagoya along with its coffee shop culture!
