If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo and you love pancakes (like really love them), then chances are you’ve come across Benitsuru Pancake in Asakusa on your FYP. It’s gone viral for a reason — but is it really worth the early morning struggle and the slightly steep price?
Well, I recently went there myself, and here’s my full experience — no fluff, just pancakes (okay, maybe a little fluff… they were that soft 😋).
Benitsuru Pancake is not your typical pancake shop. Located in the heart of Asakusa, it’s been buzzing online thanks to its cloud-like soufflé pancakes that are made fresh right in front of you. Tourists and locals alike rave about it — but there’s a catch.
Reservations can’t be made online, by phone, or through Instagram. You literally have to show up at the store starting 7:00 AM to line up and secure a slot for the day. It’s first come, first served — and once the slots are gone, that’s it.
Our Pancake Hustle: Waking Up Late but Still Got Lucky
We planned to be at the shop by 7 AM but the universe had other plans. We got there at 8 AM, and honestly thought we missed our chance. But to our surprise, we still managed to grab a 2:00 PM slot! You’ll need to pay 2,000 yen upfront to reserve, so don’t forget to bring cash.
With 6 hours to spare, we decided to make the most out of our day in Asakusa and beyond.
How to Kill Time While Waiting for Your Slot?
Here’s what we did while waiting for our pancake appointment:
📸 Snapped photos at Kaminarimon Gate and Sumida River
☕ Had a light breakfast nearby (gotta save space for pancakes)
🛍️ Shopped at Tokyo Solamachi
🌇 Went up to the 31st floor of Solamachi — the same view as Tokyo Skytree, but free!
🚆 Took a quick train ride to the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
location:
Tip: Head to the 8th floor for an unobstructed view of Nakamise Dori, Kaminarimon, and Sensoji Temple. There’s even a cozy coffee shop up there.
Finally, Pancake Time at Benitsuru Pancake
When we got back to Benitsuru Pancake around 2 PM, the shop was already full of hungry, excited guests. The interior is tiny — only about 12 seats — and it’s styled like a bar counter so you can actually watch the chefs prepare your pancakes right in front of you.
Despite the nonstop cooking, the staff were incredibly focused and you could tell they really poured their heart into every plate.
What We Ordered?
We went with two options:
- 🍫 Chocolate & Roasted Nut Banana – 2,100 yen
- 🥓 Bacon & Egg with Hollandaise Sauce – 2,300 yen
The moment those pancakes hit the table, I knew the wait was worth it. They were unbelievably fluffy and warm — like eating a pancake cloud. The chocolate one was perfectly balanced (not too sweet!), while the bacon and egg version gave us that satisfying savory punch. It was so good, we didn’t even want to talk — just eat.
Benitsuru Pancake Review: Is It Worth It?
Let’s break it down.
Worth the Price?
Definitely Yes. For some, 2000 yen for pancakes might feel steep, but this isn’t your average breakfast — it’s a full-on art pancake experience.
Worth the Time?
Only if you have other plans in the area. Don’t just come for the pancakes — explore, shop, and nearby tourist attractions while waiting for your slot.
Is It Delicious?
1000% YES. Fluffy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Will I Come Back?
For sure! Next time I’m dragging my friends so they can taste it too.
How to get to Benitsuru Pancake from Tokyo Station?
Step 1: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line (or Keihin–Tohoku Line) to Kanda Station — approximately 2 minutes, covered by JR lines.
Step 2: Transfer at Kanda Station to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and ride one stop to Tawaramachi Station — about 10 minutes, fare around ¥180–220.
Step 3: From Tawaramachi Station (Exit 2 or nearby), walk approximately 5 minutes to Benitsuru.
Total Travel Time: Around 20–25 minutes, with minimal walking and smooth transfers.
Final thoughts
Benitsuru isn’t just serving pancakes, they’re serving art on a plate. Between the vibe of the store, the passion of the staff, and the insane texture of those soufflé stacks, it’s definitely one of the must-try food experiences in Tokyo.
Just remember:
📍 Show up early
🕖 Be patient
📷 And get your camera ready… because these pancakes deserve a spot on your feed.
