Mugien

Neatly arranged in the display case, the bagels at Mugien offer a springy, pleasantly chewy texture that brings out the natural, unadorned sweetness of wheat. Alongside a simple Plain bagel, the shop keeps a versatile lineup that spans thoughtful sweet pairings to savoury meal options.

Among the standout favourites are the Salted Butter, where rich butter mingles with distinct grains of salt, and the Anko Salty Butter, balancing gently sweetened mashed bean paste with a touch of saltiness. On the sweeter side, satisfying tea-time treats include Apple Cinnamon with tender apple compote, alongside Fig and Walnut, and Caramel Nuts.

For a savoury meal, look to bagels like the fiery Jalapeno, the coastal-scented Aosa Cheese pairing sea lettuce with rich cheese, or spicy cod roe Mentaiko, whose distinct salinity also pairs nicely with drinks. Beyond bagels, baked goods such as butter scones and blueberry muffins add extra variety to a takeaway box.

Operating primarily for takeaway, Mugien's bagels take well to a brief warming in a toaster oven or microwave at home, which revives their crisp crust and plump crumb. It makes an easy stop for a handheld treat while wandering around Higashi-Mukojima Station.