Navelumi

French toast

French toast (フレンチトースト) is bread soaked in beaten egg, usually mixed with milk, and then pan-fried. Sweet versions often add sugar, are cooked in butter and come with syrup, fruit or cream; savoury versions are served with ingredients such as bacon or cheese.

Places
18
Popular in
Tokyo · Tokyo · Fukuoka
Often paired with
Cheesecake · Pancake · Pudding
Served in
Dessert cafe · Bakery cafe · Kissaten

History

Soaking bread in egg and frying it is an old way to use up stale bread, and the dish is known across Europe under many names, including pain perdu ("lost bread") in France. In Japan, French toast is a familiar café and kissaten dish, and many cafés now serve thick slices soaked for a long time so the centre turns soft and custard-like.

Why people love it

A crisp, buttery outside gives way to a soft, almost pudding-like centre. Toppings range from simple butter and syrup to seasonal fruit and cream.

How people enjoy it

It is a popular brunch or afternoon treat. Thick versions can take a while to cook to order, and some cafés make only a limited number each day.

Places to visit

Find places serving French toast →

Related topics

Frequently asked questions

Why is it so thick and soft in Japanese cafés?
Many cafés use thick-cut bread such as shokupan or brioche and soak it for a long time, sometimes overnight, so the egg mixture reaches the centre.
Is it always sweet?
No. Many cafés serve sweet versions, but savoury ones with bacon, cheese or egg also exist.
What bread is used?
Shokupan, brioche, baguette and croissant are all common; each gives a different texture.
Why does it take a while to arrive?
Thick slices are often cooked slowly, sometimes finished in the oven, so the centre sets without burning the outside.