How Crowded is the Restaurant Floor at Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro on a Holiday Afternoon?
My Experience at Tobu Department Store
So, I recently found myself at Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro on a holiday afternoon, and let me
tell you, it was quite the adventure! I had planned to meet a friend for tea and a light bite around 1 PM, and I was both excited and a little nervous about the crowd situation. I mean, Ikebukuro is known for being bustling, and I wasn’t sure if we’d be able to snag a table without a reservation. I arrived a bit early (classic me—always overestimating how long it takes to get places), so I wandered around the food floor for a bit. The variety of restaurants was impressive—everything from cozy Japanese tea spots to trendy dessert cafes. I couldn’t resist grabbing a matcha latte from a little stand while I waited. (Okay, fine, I also bought a melonpan. And maybe a taiyaki. Don’t judge me—I was hungry!) When my friend arrived, we started scouting for a place to sit. The floor was definitely lively, but it wasn’t the chaotic, elbow-to-elbow madness I’ve experienced in Shinjuku. We checked out a few spots, and while some had a short wait (like 10-15 minutes), we eventually found a charming little café with a free table. The staff were super friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed—perfect for catching up.
Surprising Discoveries and Funny Moments
One thing that surprised me was how efficient the system was. Many restaurants had digital waitlists, so you could put your name down and explore the floor while waiting. My friend and I ended up browsing a nearby bakery (and yes, I bought another snack—I have no self-control) while we waited for our table. The funniest moment? When we finally sat down, I realized I had accidentally smudged matcha powder on my sleeve from my earlier latte. My friend couldn’t stop laughing, and we ended up joking about it for the rest of the meal. (Pro tip: don’t wear white if you’re planning to indulge in matcha treats!)
Personal Reflections
Overall, I’d say Tobu Department Store’s restaurant floor is busy but manageable on a holiday afternoon. If you’re flexible and don’t mind a short wait, you’ll definitely find a spot. It’s not as overwhelming as Shinjuku, and the variety of options makes it worth it. Plus, the people-watching is top-notch—I saw everything from families enjoying lunch to couples sharing desserts. It felt like a little slice of Tokyo life.
Your Turn!
If you’ve been to Tobu Department Store’s restaurant floor, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you have a favorite spot? Any tips for navigating the crowds? Or maybe you’ve got a funny story about overindulging in snacks like I did? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’m always looking for new recommendations!
