THE BAGEL by CIAO Opens in Kagurazaka, Tokyo on June 8, 2026 — Rice Flour Bagels with a 1-Hour Expiry

A rice flour bagel specialty shop called THE BAGEL by CIAO is opening in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo on Monday, June 8, 2026.

THE BAGEL by CIAO is a bagel shop that focuses on using wholesome ingredients while delivering genuine flavor. Its concept centers on a new generation of bagel—soft and yielding rather than the typically dense and chewy variety—drawing inspiration from London-style bagels that have gained attention in Korea, and adapting them with rice flour instead of wheat.

The shop chose Kagurazaka as its first location for a reason: the neighborhood's stone-paved alleys lined with established restaurants and newer shops reflect a culture of craftsmanship and discernment that aligns with the shop's own values around ingredients and technique.

Beauty Food: Healthy Ingredients Without Compromising on Taste

THE BAGEL by CIAO bagel and beverage

As consumer interest in food that supports health and beauty has grown, THE BAGEL by CIAO aims to make eating an enjoyable experience rather than something to moderate. Using rice flour in place of wheat, the bagels are designed to feel lighter after eating, while remaining genuinely satisfying. Each bagel is also made slightly smaller than a standard one, making it easy to sample multiple flavors in one visit.

The "Crunchy, Chewy, and Juicy" Texture

After researching bagels extensively across Japan and in Korea, a consistent quality emerged among the best ones: a crunchy exterior paired with a soft, chewy interior. THE BAGEL by CIAO builds on this by adding another layer—a burst of savory richness with each bite. The dough is worked with as much grass-fed butter as possible, so the flavor peaks right as the bagels come out of the oven.

This combination—crunchy outside, chewy inside, juicy on the bite—is what the shop calls "Kari, Mochi, Juwa" (カリ・もち・ジュワ), and it defines the entire menu.

The Signature "1-Hour Expiry Bagel"

One standout item at THE BAGEL by CIAO is its "1-hour expiry bagel." Rather than stretching shelf life, this bagel is served as an experience meant to be had at the moment of peak freshness—right after baking, when the aroma and texture are at their best.

The shop lets the quality of the dough speak for itself, avoiding reliance on dips or elaborate toppings.

Featured Menu Items

1-Hour Expiry Bagel

The signature item, made with generous amounts of grass-fed butter. It delivers the "crunchy, chewy, and juicy" texture that defines the shop's approach to bagels.

Kagurazaka Bagel

Inspired by Kagurazaka's blend of Edo-era Japanese tradition and French influence, this bagel pairs Saikyo miso with Brie cheese—a combination that reflects the neighborhood's unique character.