While the vast selection of Japanese food available should be sufficient to keep the wolves at bay, there are times when nothing will satisfy like a taste of home. Fortunately, Tokyo has a number of international supermarkets and imported food stores that stock western favourites such as Weetabix, Vegemite and Heinz baked beans – unfortunately they cost almost double what they would at home. Some supermarkets also have sections with food from around the world such as Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Indian and Thai shelves. National Azabu and Kinokuniya International are the two best-stocked supermarkets for western food, but those looking to buy cheaper items in bulk should take the long trip out to Costco or order their imported goods online at The Flying Pig (www.theflyingpig.com). One Italian emporium worth a visit is Ferrarini. It sells great Italian meats, cheeses, pasta, oils and vinegars, and there’s a cool Milanese restaurant there too. Of the Japanese supermarkets, Seijo Ishii and Daimaru Peacock have the best selections of international food, but these are on the more expensive side. As well as a good selection of wine at reasonable prices, YaMaYa also carry a wide range of foods from across the world. The Kaldi coffee chain is also a good place to pick up items not normally found on the shelves of Japanese supermarkets. In the past, it used to be hard to get decent bread in Japan, but things are much better now, with excellent bakery chains located in or around most stations that bake baguettes, loaves and some slightly stranger items you might not have seen in a bakery before. Favourite bakeries include Kyle’s Good Finds and Kobeya Kitchen (www.kobeya.co.jp) which can be found at many of the city’s train stations.