PICS: MARCO POLO

Tucked away in a desolate alley in Patan, Fuji Bakery defies the trader's triadic mantra: 'Location! Location! Location!' In its ninth baking year, the Japanese-inspired bakeshop has kneaded its own niche of signature breads and confections, despite a crummy location.

Early birds (8 am) get first dibs at racks of homemade goods that have yet to thwart our craving. During peak loadshedding hours, it's best to call ahead and avoid disappointment.

Sweet standards popular with local schoolchildren like the Apple Pie (Rs 45), pain au chocolat (Rs 35) and Banana Cake (Rs 50) are arguably the best recipes in the valley. When it comes to pains au chocolat or chocolate croissants, bakers commonly skimp on filling; but Fuji spreads a thick, generous layer ensuring a chocolatey bite throughout.

For a Japanese twist that may sound outrageous, the Melon Bread (Rs 35) features a simple, delectable bun with a green pea centre. Fans of Chinese red bean buns and desserts will likely lap up its green cousin.

Fuji's Sour Creams (Rs 50 for a package of eight), a Nepali Times staff favourite, are meant for sharing�but only if you are so generous. Delicate orbs of flaky puff pastry are freshly piped to order with rich custard cream that gushes in your mouth. Balk the embarrassing innuendo and keep it a one bite sensation.

On the side of savoury, the Wiener Roll (Rs 50) and Croquet (Rs 35) are top-choice contenders for a light lunch or an after-school sedative. The spiced sausage in a semi-sweet bun is perfect on its own or with a touch of dijon, while the croquets are fast-selling, deep-fried pockets stuffed with chicken or veggies.

Fuji sets up a few tables and serves tea and Nescafe but is more shop than cafe and by no means a place to study or lunch. Pick up Fuji's sandwich saviour, the Pullman, a sliced or unsliced square, white loaf, or browse through other food products other than bread like organic coffee, honey, miso, white cheese and lapsi.

Like many good things, Fuji's closed on Mondays and prices may have slightly increased since the time of review.

Revisiting Fuji Bakery serves a sweet ending for this nomad's gastronomic tour of the Land of Gandharvas. Who knew that Nepal was not just about momos and tungba? They will be missed, truly.

Towards Patan Dhoka, back track to the juncture between Pulchok Engineering College and the World Food Program and veer left down to the end of the lane