【Visited by locals】Full for just a few hundred yen! Impressed by the 24-hour bakery vending machine in Zama City, Kanagawa

I believe that "the best places are those frequented by locals." This time, a friend living in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, recommended the 24-hour unmanned store "Dream Bakery." Not only are the prices more affordable than convenience stores, but the taste is also top-notch!

A beloved unmanned store by locals

The "Dream Bakery," located in Hibari Gaoka, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an unmanned store that operates 24 hours. According to a friend who lives in the neighborhood, "You can't go wrong with any of the items." They also supply to nearby schools, sometimes selling the leftovers at a bargain.

Eight vending machines lined up

Inside the store, there are eight vending machines lined up. I stopped by during the day on a weekday, and there were about five groups of customers from various age groups. Although it’s unmanned, it is completely indoors. Even in April, the temperature was high, so having air conditioning inside was a pleasant bonus.

Let’s check out the products being sold. Wow! There is a surprisingly wide variety of breads available. Moreover, there are also some unique items like crab gratin and fried chicken. Since the products vary by vending machine, many customers in the store were carefully contemplating their choices. It’s certainly hard to decide which one to eat!

This is a bakery. That’s why I was contemplating what kind of bread to choose, but I also discovered rice balls!

No, no, it doesn’t stop there. They also have rice bowls! The size looks a bit small, but at 370 yen, it’s an incredible price considering today’s inflation. Wow, this is intriguing. According to my friend, their child also loves it.

I was quite deliberating, but this time I got the pork rice bowl! I was also curious about the bulgogi rice bowl, which was the best-seller, but I was really hungry today and in the mood for something hearty like pork.

I also found a microwave. Since the pork bowl was cold, let’s warm it up here before eating.

Time to taste on the terrace!

There are vending machines inside the store, and there are terrace seats outside as well. After purchasing, you can take your time to savor your food here.

Since I was hungry, I’ll start with the "Pork Rice Bowl (370 yen)." The pieces are cut smaller, and the pork is tender. The overall flavor is on the sweeter side, which is definitely appealing to children. The pickled ginger adds a nice accent, making it irresistibly delicious. The portion may be small, but it's sufficient when enjoyed alongside other breads or rice balls.

Next, I’ll have the "Melon Bread (130 yen)." Upon opening the bag, a refreshing melon scent wafts out! The texture is moist overall, and it has a nostalgic taste. This is perfect for a snack. As someone who enjoys eating, after having the pork rice bowl and the melon bread, I was completely full. This place was a delightful experience, exceeding my expectations in taste and excitement.

Dream Bakery Vending Machine Store
Address: 2-39-14 Hibari Gaoka, Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, 1st Floor Hikosakaso
Business hours: Open 24 hours

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