CONTRIBUTED BY ANGI BRZYCKI

Kama Front

Recently, one of my co-workers brought in a bunch of bread for our office. The slice of bread I tried had a sweet potato swirl inside. It was so good, I went directly to the bakery after work to see where something so amazing was made. I kind of giggled when another co-worker of mine was in line when I got there. The sign on top of the bakery reads “Hide's Bakery Factory," but I've heard it called Kama, the kanji is 窯. When translated into English it means kiln.

Kama Inside

It's a tiny space that has been a popular spot for a long time. Since the place is so small, there is usually a long line out front. Don't let that intimidate you, only two or three customers are inside and the line moves pretty fast. All bread is baked fresh without preservatives or additives, so it is best if eaten within a few days or refrigerated if it's not.

Kama Breads 1

Kama Breads 2

I personally like that most of the bread is behind a glass case and in racks. Instead of customers grabbing a metal plate and tongs for self-service, the person working at the bakery handles the bread for the customers. Most of the bread labels are in katakana (foreign words-mainly English) -so if you know what type of bread it is, most likely you'll be understood if you ask for it in English. If you are unsure what kind of bread it is you can get by with a smile; point and say “kore onegai shimasu” (this please).

Kama Breads 3

Kama Sign

Directions:  Getting there is fairly easy. If you are heading south on the 58 toward Naha, make a left on Ameku Street. There is a Lawsons on the left (it is the block just before Konami workout center on the right). Continue on the street until you reach Naha Kokusai high school. You will see a large field on the right hand side. Make a left turn just before it (on opposite side of the school). Okinawa Beans Shop is on the corner. The bakery is right next door. Look straight ahead for the 窯 sign for the parking lot.

Address: 1-3-38 Aja, Naha, Okinawa

Phone: 098-869-3177

Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Closed on Sundays

Payment:  Yen