Times Of TIU

Writer: Isabelle L.
Editor: Kimmi
Translator: Syoh

Introduction

As we enter the Spring Semester at TIU, it’s easy to get caught up with the workload and stress, especially coming back after a long winter holiday. Don’t you ever just want to get a break from the busy semester to get a sweet reward after class? Well, do not worry! As one of Tokyo’s large-scale districts, there are many options available in Ikebukuro to fulfill your sweet cravings. Verified by TIU students, these delicious and reasonably priced sweets, all within walking distance from campus, can be an amazing option for you to check out – whether it be alone, or with a friend. Ranging from Sundaes to Crepes, here are some dessert recommendations worth checking out!

Top 5 Locations to Visit:

Donuts – I’m Donut?

Address: 〒170-0013 Luce Jardin, 1 Chome-17-4 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo 

The first location is the author’s favorite dessert shop and a popular donut place known all over the country. I’m Donut? is both a local and tourist favorite, suitable for anyone who’s craving a fluffy, tasty treat. Famous all over social media for their signature nama donuts, they offer a delicately chewy treat, with a variety of savory and sweet flavors. Located in front of Naka-Ikebukuro Park, I’m Donut? offers the perfect excuse to relax outside in the benches while enjoying delicious, airy donuts all ranging from ¥200 to ¥500. Additionally, it’s important to note that there may be long lines and limited stock due to the store’s popularity!  

Crepes – Dipper Dan

Address: 〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3 Chome−1, サンシャインシティ 専門店街アルパ B1 

Dipper Dan, specializes in soft, freshly baked crepes. Featuring a wide variety of classic and seasonal flavors, ranging from strawberry cream to banana custard, making them a good option for many young adults, particularly students. The store also serves delicious tapioca drinks to complement the crepes— if you’re ever feeling thirsty. Located only 5 minutes away from Campus at Ikebukuro Sunshine City, the store is highly convenient and within walking distance. Additionally, with an ideal student price range, varying more or less around ¥500, Dipper Dan provides you with a fulfilling sweet treat that will keep you satisfied for the whole day!

Ice Cream Sundaes – Milky Way

Address: 〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 1 Chome−12−8 富士喜ビル ２階

Famous for its creative menu and delicious ice cream flavors based on astrological signs, Milky Way Cafe provides unique desserts that will keep you wanting more. As a star-themed cafe, the menu has flavors you won’t be disappointed by. With outstanding plating that makes you feel guilty for digging in, or waffles with ice cream that simply melts in your mouth, Milky Way Cafe offers plenty of items ranging around the ¥800 range that’ll make you keep coming back for more. Located at the center of Ikebukuro, a 12-minute walk from campus, not only are the sugary treats delicious, but the outstanding ambience of the store makes it an amazing place to hang out with your friends after class! 

Pancakes – A Happy Pancake

Address: 〒170-0013 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 1 Chome−12−13 池袋東口セイコービル ３階

Craving fluffy souffle-styled pancakes that melt in your mouth? A Happy Pancake is widely known for serving thick, ricotta-based pancakes, making it the perfect spot for students who love a delicate and airy treat. With unique and classic toppings like tiramisu and fruits, the cute, relaxed atmosphere makes eating soft pancakes immensely more pleasing! Although a bit on the pricier side for students, ranging around ¥1,200, A Happy Pancake’s sweet and savory options makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. With an 11-minute walk from campus and located near Ikebukuro Station, A Happy Pancake’s cozy and laid-back vibe makes it a delightful reward after a long, hard day in class!

Tart – Bake Cheese Tart

Address: 〒171-0022 Tokyo, Toshima City, Minamiikebukuro, 1 Chome−28−2 JR池袋駅構内 Central Passage, 中央改札外

Last but not least, featuring delicious types of Hokkaido-style tarts, Bake Cheese Tart combines both a cookie-like crust with a creamy filling that’ll leave you craving for more. Often served fresh out of the oven, the enticing aroma is hard to miss when you go through Ikebukuro station — making it the perfect snack before taking your train back home! From flavors such as its famous Original Cheese to Matcha Cheese, and even more ravishing delights such as Fig Cheese, the menu regularly changes depending on the season. During rush hour, the store is often crowded with students, workers, and elderly alike – all craving for that addictive, light, tangy cheese filling. With prices ranging from ¥250 to ¥400, Bake Cheese Tart offers a quick light bite in the case of an urgent hunger fix!

Conclusion

So, if you’re ever feeling sugary, and craving a small — or even a big, bite of dessert, don’t forget to check these locations out! Whether it be pancakes, fluffy donuts, or even delicious cheese tarts, Ikebukuro offers a diverse range of sweet treats for you to explore. Remember! Take note of both opening and closing times, as some stores may close earlier depending on certain days of the week. With that being said, don’t forget to try these deliciously addictive treats, and we hope the sugar rush will keep you energized for classes and the long spring days on Campus!