For over 120 years, Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop has been a favorite in Los Angeles for Japanese treats namely mochi (rice cake) and manju (sweet bean-filled rice cake).
While this might be a small confectionery shop, a ton of history is packed inside.
Established in 1903, this family-owned-and-operated shop is the oldest business located in the Historic District of the Little Tokyo neighborhood.
The shop was founded by Seiichi Kito, who immigrated from Japan, and brought with him his passion for for traditional Japanese sweets.
What began as a modest venture blossomed into a beloved and treasured LA institution, renowned for its commitment to quality and the preservation of time-honored recipes.
Fugetsu-Do offers a variety of mochi options but the most popular is the fresh strawberry.
Other unique options include strawberry anko (topped with a hazelnut ganache); chofu (pancake wrapped around a slice of sweet mochi; sakura (cherry blossom); pink (with white bean paste filling) and more. The pieces are around $2 each.
I picked a few to try and they were delicious and beautifully crafted. The mochi was smooth and chewy and the fillings were subtle and not too sweet.
Strawberry Anko topped with hazelnut chocolate ganache
Blueberry Anko: blueberries cooked with white bean paste
Chofu: pancake wrapped around a slice of sweet mochi
Pink: pink colored mochi with white bean paste filling
Multi-color Suama mochi (no flavored centre)
The shop also carries a variety of Japanese candy and snacks.
This bakery showcases the beauty of family legacy and the joy of sharing authentic Japanese sweets with a global audience. Check out Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop at 315 1st St, Los Angeles, CA.