Best Gluten-Free Cafes in Tokyo for Cakes, Pastries, Sandwiches & More

H. Fern
Dec 24, 2025
3 min read

Tokyo's gluten-free scene has come a long way. What was once a difficult landscape to navigate now offers some genuinely amazing options for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. These four outstanding cafes prove that going gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing taste or variety.

From French-inspired patisseries to cozy neighborhood bakeries, here are four must-visit spots across Tokyo.

Gluten-Free Cafes in Tokyo: 4 Must-Visit Spots for Cakes, Pastries & Sandwiches

Shimokita Shimai (Shimokitazawa)

Shimokita Shimai requires a bit of a walk – 16 minutes from Sangenjaya Station or 18 minutes from Shimokitazawa station – but this dedicated gluten-free café is absolutely worth the trek. Run by two siblings in a charming storefront, it's become a beloved destination for celiacs and dessert lovers alike.

A person inside a warmly lit cafe seen through a window. Exterior features white siding, a bench, and illuminated signage. Cozy evening vibe.

The real draw is the stunning cake selection. The pistachio shortcake is their signature, but seasonal specials like peach and Earl Grey are equally tempting. Each one is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Beyond cakes, you'll find excellent French-style pastries like madeleines, canelés, and buttery cookies.

Strawberry cake slice with cream on a red plate beside a brown pastry. Background: wooden tray, blue plate with dessert.

Pair your treats with a wide selection of coffees and teas. The cozy interior makes for a lovely spot to linger, though seating is limited. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Cakes with strawberries and frosting on red, blue plates, a madeleine, water glasses, and a striped mug on a wooden tray, outdoors.

Google Maps link, here.

Rizriant (Kichijoji)

A ten-minute walk from Kichijoji Station, Rizriant is a dedicated gluten-free patisserie that specializes in French-style pastries. The owner trained as a pastry chef in Paris before her celiac diagnosis inspired her to reimagine classic French techniques without wheat.

A glass door with a wreath, displaying "Rizriant" in gold text. Payment logos are above. Warm, cozy interior and a Christmas tree visible.

The cafe's name cleverly blends the French words for rice and smile, a promise fulfilled by the stunning display of glossy fruit tarts, silky cheesecakes, and traditional French classics like marjolaine. The menu changes seasonally, so each visit offers something new, though the quality remains consistently exceptional.

Slice of layered almond cake topped with nuts and powdered sugar, next to a chocolate-dusted macaron on a yellow plate.

A handful of seats offer a quiet, relaxing atmosphere perfect for an intimate chat or catching up on work over coffee. Alternatively, grab your treats to go and enjoy them in nearby Inokashira Park.

A slice of nutty cake and macaron on a yellow plate, with a glass teapot of tea and empty cup on a wooden table. Cozy cafe setting.

Google Maps link, here.

Where is a Dog? (Kichijoji)

Where is a Dog? is a serious destination for anyone following a gluten-free diet in Tokyo. This dedicated gluten-free café is just a four-minute walk from Kichijoji Station, perfectly positioned for a meal before or after exploring one of Tokyo's most beloved neighborhoods.

Bakery interior view through window, two people talking inside, framed art on wall, "Where is a dog?" text on glass. Cozy, warm ambiance.

The menu goes well beyond typical café fare, featuring pancakes, waffles, and cakes alongside heartier options like pizza, pasta, and doria. The real standout is the bread – think sweet and savory sandwiches, an impressive selection of bagels, and freshly baked loaves you can take home.

Bagel and sandwich with cucumber slices on a white plate, set on a wooden table. The bagel has a golden-brown crust.

The café is also vegan-friendly, with many items clearly marked on the menu. The owner is exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable about food allergies, making this a safe haven for those with dietary restrictions.

Google Maps link, here.

Bio Cafe (Shibuya)

Tucked away on Spain Hill in Shibuya, Bio Cafe is an organic café and restaurant specializing in French-inspired cuisine. While not exclusively gluten-free, it offers an extensive selection of gluten-free pastries and dishes.

The highlight is the pastry case, showcasing elegant classics like strawberry shortcake and mont blanc alongside more unexpected treats like taro baked pudding. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bio Café offers a cake set that allows you to pair a pastry with tea or wine at a discount.

Chocolate cupcake dusted with cocoa and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a clear glass plate, set on a wooden table with a red napkin.

For those seeking something more substantial, the menu also features gluten-free dishes like brown rice pasta, veggie burgers, and fried chicken. The elegant interior provides a relaxing respite from Shibuya's bustle, whether you're stopping in for a leisurely afternoon tea or an intimate post-dinner dessert.

Google Maps link, here.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're craving an elegant French pastry, a hearty sandwich, or a fresh loaf of bread, Tokyo's gluten-free cafe scene has you covered. Each of these spots offers something unique, making them worth the journey across the city. Happy eating!