6:00 a.m, you have to prepare breakfast for the little ones, coffee for you and Mister and oh, bad luck, the toothpaste is finished. All supermarkets are closed and anyway you would not have time to go there.
What if, there, just downstairs of your apartment or next to your house, there was a convenience store, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you could go down and buy your toothpaste, two cups of coffee and already toasted sandwiches or fresh brioches for breakfast. Well, in that case all your problems will be solved in 30 minutes and immediately during morning, while go to the corner supermarket will have taken you the whole evening…
That is the worst part of my life! What I will never have in France, a country where the service to citizens is almost zero, you have it in Japan, means: conveniences stores at reasonable prices where you can also withdraw money, make photocopies, read and buy a magazine or cigarettes, alcohol, fresh or cooked dishes, fruit, yogurt, hot and cold drinks, ground coffee before your eyes, sanitary napkins or toothpaste … All the consumables of everyday life are sold there, to which are added seasonal products and limited editions of certain breads or fresh dishes for diversity.
And all of this, in one of the many Convenience stores in the area. There is at least one store every 500 meters. Some offer spaces for eating and drinking on site, others do not.
1. 7-eleven
The American-Japanese chain, born in Dallas in 1927, is the best known and the largest. Its bento are very varied and choice of drinks and snacks endless.
2. Family Mart
It is the second largest convenience store chain in Japan. But Personally, I prefer 7 eleven products.
3. Lawson
3rd largest chain in Japan, its first store was opened in 1975 in Osaka Province
4. Daily Yamazaki et Mini Stop (Aeon Stores)
two other chains competing with the three main competitors. They all have a welcoming and comfortable space (with sockets on the tables so that they can stay at work if necessary), equipped with microwaves, sinks, hot water dispensers and coffee for dining at any time.
My favorite in Osaka, Mini-Stop for its choice of savory dishes and sweet snacks and its very welcoming relaxation area.
And 7-eleven, their Bento are just great and complete.
Bon appétit !
viniedaily 