While walking around Ikebukuro in Tokyo, you might come across a minimalist sign that simply says “ぽ” (Po) in Hiragana. This is Ponde Coffee (ぽんでCOFFEE), a hidden gem that has become a local favorite for its unique take on bread and specialty coffee.
For your 2026 visit, this cozy cafe remains a must-stop for anyone seeking the famous Japanese mochi-mochi (chewy/springy) texture.
What is “Ponde”?
“Ponde” is the shop’s signature bite-sized bread, inspired by the Brazilian cheese bread Pão de queijo. However, Ponde Coffee has evolved the recipe to be denser and more varied.
Since you can’t really understand how springy this bread is, check the video below!
The signature elastic, springy texture comes from using tapioca flour. It is remarkably soft and chewy, unlike any traditional wheat bread.
They offer 12 different flavors daily. While 5 or 6 are “standard” classics (like Cheese or Sesame), the remaining flavors change regularly. You might find unique options like Matcha, Chocolate Mint, Red Pickled Ginger, or Green Soybean.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for sampling. You can buy them individually or in popular 5-piece (approx. ¥495) or 10-piece (approx. ¥935) sets.
Specialty Coffee & More
Other than bread, you can also buy sandwiches, side dishes and sweets. You can also try out sandwiches and sweets made using the same flour as that used to make the springy bread. The store opens at 7 am on weekdays, so you can grab a bite to eat before setting off on your Tokyo adventure.
Takeout is also available. Its best to slightly warm the bread to savor the springy texture.
The name of the store is “Ponde Coffee” so no doubt you’ll get brilliant coffee here. The owner loves coffee and is very particular about the choice of beans.
Drip coffee packs are also available for purchase, so you can buy yourself a souvenir from Ponde Coffee to take home or even gift these to a coffee lover friend.
You can even buy an original Ponde Coffee mug.
Just a 5-min walk from the east exit of Ikebukuro Station on the Yamanote Line, Ponde Coffee is an excellent place to have a quick bite of delicious bread or relax with a lovely cup of warm coffee.
ぽんでCOFFEE (Ponde Coffee) Details
Address: 3-13-13 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo (Google MAP)
Opening hours: 10:00 – 21:00 (Hours may occasionally shorten to 11:00–20:00; check their SNS).
Mondays (Open if Monday is a public holiday, closed the following Tuesday).
Official website: https://ponde-coffee.com/
A Chewy Delight
Ponde Coffee is the perfect “only in Japan” cafe experience. Whether you’re grabbing a 10-piece set for a picnic in nearby Minami-Ikebukuro Park or sitting upstairs with a latte, the “mochi-mochi” sensation is something you’ll be thinking about long after you leave.
