New Bistro in Ikebukuro: Cost Price Drinks and Creative Cheese Dishes
On April 11, 2026, THAN Co., Ltd., a food service company headquartered in Kyoto, will open 'Cost Price Bistro Cheese Plus Ikebukuro', marking its first establishment in Tokyo's 23 wards. Located at 1-19-3 Minami-Ikebukuro, the bistro specializes in innovative cheese dishes that can be enjoyed with beverages priced at cost. This venture is drawing significant attention, especially given the rising costs of dining out.
A Flavorful Concept: Creative Cheese Cuisine
Originating from Kyoto and having previously established venues in Kansai, the 'Cost Price Bistro Cheese Plus' focuses on the theme of 'Cheese + something else', utilizing French cooking techniques to create enticing dishes. The Ikebukuro location will follow the opening of their Machida store last December, making it the second establishment in Tokyo.
Customers will be thrilled to discover that the bistro offers drinks at nearly cost price—highballs starting at ¥64, sour cocktails from ¥75, and draft beer at ¥260. Even non-drinkers can relish the soft drinks available for just ¥1, attracting a diverse clientele.
Signature Dishes to Tempt Your Taste Buds
The bistro’s menu features a remarkable array of cheese from around the world, including about ten types from countries such as France and Italy. Among the highlights is the popular 'Raw Ham and Soft Boiled Egg Chicago Pizza' at ¥2,189, known for its gooey cheese that flows when the crust is cut. Other standout offerings include:
- - 'Cheese Fondue' for ¥1,540, customizable with two cheese types.
- - 'Angelic Cheese Fried Potatoes' (¥990), topped generously with cheddar cheese and a soft-boiled egg.
- - 'Selected Beef Steak with Red Wine Sauce' (¥2,178), enhancing the savory meat with a rich sauce.
- - 'Cheese! Cheese! Cheese! Carbonara!' (¥1,540), loaded with Parmesan, Red Cheddar, and Grana Padano cheese.
In total, diners can choose from approximately 70 different dishes, with all enjoying a complimentary homemade focaccia at ¥550.
An Affordable Dining Experience
The concept of providing drinks at near-cost pricing is particularly innovative—customers can indulge in gourmet food and beverages without financial stress. In light of recent price hikes in food and beverages, the bistro aims to furnish an enjoyable experience that doesn't pinch the wallet.
Drink Selection to Complement Your Meal
To accompany the delicious dishes, the bistro offers a vast selection of around 120 different drinks:
- Highballs starting at ¥64
- Sour cocktails from ¥75
- Draft beer at ¥260
- Various cocktails from ¥156
- Bottle wines starting at ¥2,200
- - Soft Drinks: These include cola, ginger ale, orange juice, grapefruit juice, Calpis, and oolong tea, all available at just ¥1.
Guests can also enjoy a two-hour all-you-can-drink option starting at ¥990, providing an opportunity for cheerful gatherings among friends and family.
Bistro Overview
- - Name: Cost Price Bistro Cheese Plus Ikebukuro
- - Location: 1-19-3 Minami-Ikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo, B1, 5th Nakano Building
- - Contact: 03-5953-1729
- - Business Hours: Weekdays from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM (last order at 2:30 PM) and 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM (food last order at 10:00 PM, drinks at 10:30 PM). On weekends and holidays, from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
- - Seating Capacity: 51 seats across 16 tables
- - Average Spending: About ¥3,000 per guest
- - Restaurant Size: Approximately 23 tsubo
- - Closed Days: None
Company Profile
THAN Co., Ltd. operates a total of 48 restaurants, including this new bistro as part of their expansion into Tokyo. Known for their creative culinary concepts, they also offer consulting services and support for inbound businesses. For more information, visit their website at
THAN.
Media Tasting Event Invitation
In anticipation of the opening, a media tasting event will take place on April 9, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the bistro. Media representatives are encouraged to apply to participate by April 8, 2026. For details or to register, please visit the designated application form link.
This exciting concept restaurant promises an affordable and delightful experience in the heart of Ikebukuro, where cheese lovers and casual diners alike can enjoy innovative dishes and beverages without breaking the bank.