During his visit to Japan, BTS’s Jimin gained widespread attention for his visit to the CoCo Ichibanya branch in Shinjuku Kabukicho, Japan. Fans eager to recreate his experience at the eatery he visited shared photos of themselves in similar outfits, posing in the same spot where Jimin sat. This phenomenon turned the restaurant into a hotspot among fans.
Jimin’s Japan trip, which started on November 24, became a topic of interest when he posted a photo on Instagram from the restaurant on November 25. Fans responded by flocking to the same restaurant, wearing black berets and gray sweatshirts like Jimin, and even queuing for hours to sit at the table where he had been.
Further highlighting his impact, fans brought along CHIMMY, the beloved BT21 character associated with Jimin, and other merchandise during their visits. The trend sparked a wave of social media posts, with many fans expressing their enthusiasm and desire to visit the restaurant and replicate Jimin’s experience.
People have been flocking to CoCo Ichibanya after Jimin's post!
Fans share that the restaurant now gives out numbered tickets and has queues for people who only want to eat at exactly Jimin's table. The queues went on even though waiting could take them 5hrs!🤯
THE JIMIN EFFECT pic.twitter.com/UFxKtoloAN
— Jimin Global (@JiminGlobal) November 26, 2023
CoCo Ichibanya in Shinjuku Kabukicho
It’s quite fitting that BTS’s Jimin, a global star, visited a CoCo Ichibanya branch, as the restaurant chain itself has a strong international presence, much like the worldwide popularity of BTS. CoCo Ichibanya’s expansion across various countries in Asia and beyond mirrors the international reach and influence of BTS, making it a suitable dining choice for a member of such a globally recognized group. Jimin’s visit to the restaurant, therefore, aligns well with both his and BTS’s international status and appeal.
Located at 1-18-10 Yoshikawa Bldg. 1F, in the Kabukicho district of Shinjuku, Tokyo Prefecture, this branch holds a significant position. It is situated right in the heart of one of Tokyo’s most bustling areas. It is rated as #67 out of 801 restaurants in Kabukicho. Its menu offers a range of Japanese, Asian, and fast food options.
This branch serves both lunch and dinner and features facilities for takeout, reservations, and seating. The branch is open daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. This makes it a convenient option for both locals and tourists exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Shinjuku. The restaurant’s proximity to the Kabukicho District, a famous entertainment and red-light area in Shinjuku, adds to its appeal, offering a unique dining experience amidst Tokyo’s lively urban landscape.
People lining up at Coco Ichibanya at 9am 🤯
The Jimin Effect pic.twitter.com/8ivOTeHCZm
— Jimin Global (@JiminGlobal) November 29, 2023
‘CoCo Ichi’
CoCo Ichibanya, also known as “CoCo Ichi,” is a famous Japanese restaurant chain specializing in customizable curry rice dishes. Established in Japan, it has expanded globally to countries including the United States, China, Thailand, and the UK. The chain’s appeal lies in its ability to offer personalized meals. This allows customers to choose their curry’s spice level, rice, and toppings.
The brand’s strong identity is marked by its distinctive color scheme and logo. This, in turn, contributed to the popularization of Japanese-style curry rice. This success demonstrates the global appeal of Japanese cuisine and CoCo Ichibanya’s ability to attract a diverse customer base.
With branches in several Asian countries, CoCo Ichibanya’s international presence mirrors its popularity. The expansion across Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and more, reflects the widespread appeal of its Japanese-style curry rice, catering to various tastes while maintaining its authentic culinary roots. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jimin’s star power caused people to flock to the restaurant. Source: X/@amabile_suga.