A variety of pastries and desserts are displayed at 58 Sweets, a local bakery within the base library on Camp Foster, Okinawa. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
Tucked within the quiet, book-lined stacks of the Camp Foster library lies an unexpected gem dedicated to elegant pastries and desserts.
The shop, 58 Sweets, serves a variety of decadent treats at this Marine Corps base on Okinawa. The first impression is of an upscale bakery, illuminating an already sophisticated atmosphere, and is a delightful contrast to a charming library.
With meticulous artistry, 58 Sweets offers a tempting selection of delicate cakes, French macarons, refreshing frozen yogurt and coffee. Everything is made in-house with a dedication to quality and detail.
The desserts range from classic layered pieces of fluffy sponge cake to highly intricate pastries decked out with frosting and cream. The frozen yogurt is tangy and flavorful with various toppings to accompany the experience.
I decided to indulge in the standout item, French macarons at $1.75 each. With more than a dozen flavor choices, I opted for pistachio, strawberry cheesecake and shikuwasa — a local Okinawan citrus fruit. The macarons are light, crisp and a perfect harmony between taste and texture.
A variety of pastries and desserts are available at 58 Sweets, a local bakery inside the library at Camp Foster, Okinawa. (Ryan M. Breeden/Stars and Stripes)
The menu may appear small, but there are multiple options for multiple visits. The macarons came in chocolate, coconut, Earl Grey, birthday versions and even holiday favorites like peppermint or white mocha.
The cakes start at $4.50 a slice and you’ll see options such as pistachio ricotta, cinnamon apple, mixed berry with a seasonal option of pumpkin cheesecake.
The staff at 58 Sweets are knowledgeable, friendly and eager to recommend their own favorites. There is an obvious passion for baking evident in each item. Even their to-go packaging was presented as a gift box topped with a bow.
More than a bakery within a military base, 58 Sweets is a culinary sanctuary. It is a perfect spot to indulge in a little bit of luxury without breaking the bank or for those seeking a holiday gift box for their next event.
58 Sweets
Location: Inside the Camp Foster Library, building 5679; Less than 5 minutes south of Gate 5.
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; parking available outside the library or at the nearby commissary.
Costs: Desserts start at $1.75, espresso drinks start at $2, and frozen yogurt starts at $2.50.
Information: Online: tinyurl.com/5n7n25x9
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