Higuma Doughnuts’ Hokkaido-born owner uses ingredients from his home prefecture to create the store’s delightfully fluffy and ‘mochi-mochi’ (springy) doughnuts. Free from additives and preservatives, these rings have garnered cult status in Tokyo. You can’t go wrong with the classic varieties – plain, cinnamon sugar, kinako (roasted soybean powder) and black sugar, and raspberry jam – but keep an eye out on the seasonal offerings such as honey-mascarpone and limoncello. There’s seating inside, where you can watch the doughnut-making action through the glass wall.
Known as ‘Gakudai’ to locals, this lesser-known residential area in Meguro flourished as a former university town along the Toyoko line. Even though it's close to the trendy neighbourhoods of Nakameguro and Jiyugaoka – and only a 10-minute train ride from Shibuya – the area is less crowded and perfect for a relaxing day out. Explore the narrow streets and sample international cuisine at one of the many small restaurants, shop for beautiful ceramics, and unwind in a traditional sento (bathhouse) to round off your day.
