Hidden away in Boston’s Chinatown is a shop so tiny that you can barely carry a cat inside — never mind swing one. But don’t let the store’s hole-in-the-wall exterior and diminutive size deter you because, once inside, you’ll find cream puffs so alluring that you may develop an addiction. You’ve been warned!

Tripadvisor/NsMommy

Beard Papa’s has mastered cream puff creation. This bakery has its roots in Osaka, Japan. However, there are now numerous Beard Papa’s franchises in California and a sprinkling of locations in other states, including Massachusetts.

Flickr/XXOOPP

The bakery has three locations here. One is at 31 Harrison Avenue in Boston.

Google Maps There’s a second at 827 Boylston Street in Boston…

…and a third at 145 Brighton Avenue in Allston.

Google Maps

In each spot, you’ll find these artfully produced cream puffs that are made using a double layer of crust. The inner layer consists of choux pastry, while the outside layer is crafted with pie crust. The result is a crunchy yet airy texture that enhances any filling.

Flickr/Vincent Diamante Each puff contains a combination of whipped cream and vanilla custard cream.

These cream puffs are fully customizable — you can build your own.

Tripadvisor/NsMommy

Start by selecting a shell: original, honey butter, éclair, dolce de leche, Paris Brest (that’s the ring-shaped one).

Tripadvisor/NsMommy Next, pick a smooth custard filling: vanilla, green tea, plus a flavor of the day, and a flavor of the month.

Since there are only about four seats in total, you’ll probably need to take your sweet treat to go.

Tripadvisor/Christine H If you visit the Harrison Street location, it’s an easy detour to Boston Common, where you can settle on a bench and indulge in the ultimate cream puff.

Have you tried Beard Papa’s yet? Let us know your favorite flavor combinations in the comments.

Tripadvisor/NsMommy

Flickr/XXOOPP

Google Maps

There’s a second at 827 Boylston Street in Boston…

Flickr/Vincent Diamante

Each puff contains a combination of whipped cream and vanilla custard cream.

Next, pick a smooth custard filling: vanilla, green tea, plus a flavor of the day, and a flavor of the month.

Tripadvisor/Christine H

If you visit the Harrison Street location, it’s an easy detour to Boston Common, where you can settle on a bench and indulge in the ultimate cream puff.

Anyone with a sweet tooth should also take this mouthwatering ice cream trail through Boston. Road trip!

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