If you’ve never had milk bread, you’re missing out on a fluffy, slightly sweet bakery delight. This Asian staple is a must-try for anyone who loves bread. Here’s where to find quality milk bread in Washington DC.
Asian Markets and Bakeries
Hana Market: At 17th and U street NW, Hana Market has authentic Japanese shokupan.
Korean Bakeries: Several Korean bakeries throughout the DMV carry milk bread, Breeze Bakery in Annandale and Wheaton come highly recommended by locals as well as Shilla.
HMart: With locations in Wheaton and elsewhere, HMart is a reliable chain that offers milk bread.
99 Ranch: Another chain offering milk bread, 99 Ranch is good if it’s closer or more convenient than HMart.
Maruichi: A Japanese grocery store in Rockville that stocks milk bread if you’re willing to make the trip.
Japon Bakery, Teamania: Both of these Rockville bakeries offer a variety of great-tasting breads including milk bread.
Specialty Bakeries and Cafes
SakuSaku Flakerie: A Japanese-French pastry shop located at Tenleytown. In addition to normal shokupan, they have cream pan with matcha or cherry fillings (which are extremely tasty).
Milk Bar DC Flagship:
While not an Asian bakery per se, this Logan Circle spot has plenty of baked goods and desserts available for same-day delivery through local partners Uber Eats, Postmates and Caviar.
Other Notable Bakeries
Boulangerie Christophe
Bread Furst
Mah-Ze-Dahr
Manifest Bread
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
Rose Ave Bakery
Sunday Morning Bakehouse
Un Je Ne Sais Quoi
While not specifically mentioned above for their offerings of milk bread or similar bread, all of these establishments are praised by pastry enthusiasts for other aspects of their menus. It’s worth giving them a call to ask if they have milk bread available.
Historical Context
The Holmes Modern Bakery was once one of DC's largest bakeries and churned out loaves of home-made milk bread made with fresh milk from local dairies.
Conclusion
With so many great options in the District, you can get your fix for shokupan or any variety of twists on milk bread. Whether you’re searching for a traditional Japanese offering or a trendy take, the above locations will help satisfy your cravings.