Hitotoki is a Japanese bakery in Toronto that seamlessly blends the rich baking traditions of France and Japan with an emphasis on croissant tarts and Shokupan.

Owner Ada Lu demonstrates clear expertise in crafting Japanese pastries with subtle sweetness and airy textures. 

What steals the spotlight is certainly the tantalizing flaky layers of their croissant tarts that feature a fruit-infused custard and chestnut puree filling.

A stand out creation is their Mont Blanc Tart ($6.50), which harmoniously integrates the mellow nutty chestnut cream with a light and crumbly outer layer.

Also not to be missed is the Blueberry Cream Tart ($6.25) filled with velvety whipped cream and topped with perfectly ripe blueberries and a dusting of icing sugar.

The Mandarin Croissant Tart ($6) is adorned with succulent mandarin orange which makes it a certifiable Instagram showstopper.

Packed with strawberry custard filling, the Strawberry Cream Tart ($6) is distinguished by its floral notes and might be among my favourite items on their menu.

But my absolute favourite here is the Creme Brulee Almond Tart ($6.50) which is a combination of caramel, creamy pudding, blueberry jam and almond cream.

While fruit cream tarts dominate the menu, don't miss the opportunity to try the jiggle custard egg tart ($4.50) when it is fresh from the oven. 

Also on the mtnu is The Palmier ($5), a thin and crispy butterfly-shaped pastry with a pleasantly sweet aftertaste.

And not to be overlooked is the Nama Shokupan ($9), a classic Japanese milk bread characterized by its soft, fluffy interior and golden-brown crust.

A less common variation is the Sweet Potato Shokupan ($8.50), a winter spin on the classic offering thanks to the sweet potato puree filling that adds additional texture and creaminess.

To drink I'd recommend ordering the Mont Blanc Latte ($6.50) a silky milk coffee piled up with whipped cream, vermicelli-shaped chestnut paste and a candied chestnuts garnish.

Hojicha powder is the star ingredient in their unsweetened Hojicha Latte ($5.50) that comes with a bitter but distinctive toasty flavour.

For something more refreshing, opt for the Grape Lemon Soda ($5.50), a non-caffeinated drink layered with vibrant grape syrup and fizzy lemon soda.

Hitotoki Japanese Bakery is located at 25 Carlton St Unit D.