Olive

A short walk from Sugamo Station along the street, nestled between drink vending machines, Olive presents a modest storefront where rows of handmade sandwiches fill the display case. Opening at 5:00, it caters to morning commuters and early walkers while the town is still quiet, handing wrapped sandwiches directly through the counter window. With no dine-in seating, the takeaway-only stall retains an old-fashioned street-corner charm, built on brief morning exchanges with the shopkeeper over the counter.

A signature offering is the egg sandwich, prepared with coarsely chopped boiled eggs for texture and a light hand on the mayonnaise to let the egg flavour come through. The distinctive Popeye sandwich, which pairs egg filling with potato salad, is another beloved option, both packed generously between slices of thin white bread. Unpretentious in appearance, each bite feels thoroughly satisfying and reassuringly homemade.

The display cabinet balances classics like mixed, ham, and tuna sandwiches with heartier fried options including chicken katsu, menchi-katsu, and fried squid. On certain days, yakisoba dogs or sweet fruit-filled sandwiches also appear, offering the chance to take home both savoury lunch fare and a sweet treat. Kept at accessible prices, the sandwiches work equally well for an early morning boost, a midday bite, or an afternoon snack.