The painted letters on the storefront window read "Aji Ichiban, Munchies Paradise." That's no joke. With more than 500 choices of sweets, this place will make you feel as excited as, well, a kid in a candy store. You may not recognize many of the offerings, and only a few bear English-language labels, so feel free to experiment (you can even taste some of the goodies before buying).

As with many Japanese goods, the packaging proves as alluring as the contents. In addition to the expected brightly colored shiny wrappers, you'll find candy in tiny containers shaped like kittens, firecrackers and pineapples. The more adventurous will also find a variety of sweet roasted fish and other salty munchies that may not qualify as "candy" where you come from but are (maybe) worth a nibble. Credit cards are accepted for purchases over $10, which gives you a great reason to buy in bulk.

Centerstage Reviewer: Abigail Derecho