Nenrinya

What we love…

• Despite baumkuchen being a distinctly German delicacy, the Japanese have adopted this lovely layer cake as one of their favorite dessert items, and Nenrinya bakery is one of the best. Baumkuchen means 'tree cake' and got its name from the 15-20 thin layers you see when the cake is sliced, which resemble the inside rings of a tree. The layers are created from the unique baking method: each layer of batter is brushed on a rotating spit, and browned before another layer is applied. This time intensive baking method ensures quality and creates an incredibly moist cake every time.
• There are two baumkuchen flavors to choose from at Nenrinya, the original vanilla and a chocolate cake. The original vanilla is where it's at in our opinion, the chocolate version isn't all that chocolaty so if you're craving a chocolate based dessert there are much better places to find one. 
• At Nenrinya you can get a smaller sized cake to eat that day, or the pre-packaged version that will stay moist for up to a week. The packaged versions make great gifts for travelers looking to bring home something tasty for family and friends. Don't worry the pre-packaged baumkuchen will actually stay fresh right up to the expiration date (if you don't break and eat it on the plane ride home). If you're looking to buy for a someone in Tokyo the baumkuchen cake is also the prefect gift, it's typically given as wedding and Christmas presents but will work for any occasion.
• The Ginza neighborhood is known for luxury department store shopping, but in every department store you'll find fantastic food to sample. Nenrinya is located inside the Matsuzakaya department store right by the entrance, and even has a large window with a rotating spit where you can see the baking process in action. Due to the popularity of baumkuchen bakeries such as Nenrinya are always busy, and of course in Tokyo that means long lines. Don't worry though, the line at Nenrinya moves fairly fast, you'll be enjoying your cake in no time.