Chez Lui

If you’re choosing a canelé, the contrast between its exterior and centre is worth noting. One customer who bought one at the Shimokitazawa branch said it had a firm, crisp outside and a moist inside. Another bought one chocolate and one pistachio canelé and enjoyed both. You could go for the classic, or try two different flavours; either way, the baked treats make a good reason to stop by.

The pies and tarts also offer tempting options to take away. One diner praised the caramelised finish on the kouign-amann, while apple tart has also been recommended. A customer who tried the apple pie remembered its crisp pastry, apple compote and sweet-tart flavour. Alongside choosing a few small treats, you could pick up a tin of cookies for yourself or as a gift. One report describes a tin packed with plenty of small cookies, making it worth a look when you’re searching for a present.

There are options beyond sweets, too, if you’re after bread for a meal. One customer described the piroshki as small but satisfying, with a filling that was both sweet and savoury. Another chose a hot-dog bun and a French onion and ham bread. A customer who bought French bread said it brought to mind the familiar taste of France, offering a different choice from sweet pastries.

Chez Lui is a takeaway shop rather than a place to eat in. Choose canelés or pie for a snack, baguettes or savoury breads for a meal, or a tin of cookies to give as a gift.