Karina James is a native of Antigua and Barbuda. She resides in Tokyo and works as a cat butler, pre-school teacher and writer/editor. She’s open to trying any hobby at least once as long as it does not involve ice or snow. Lover of all things snack-related, she adores her friends’ gifts of chocolates and TOUGH gummies. Her dream is to move to Iceland after Japan and swim in the hot springs in her free time.
This post may contain some affiliate links. When you click through and make a purchase we may receive some commission, at no extra cost to you.
History of Shimokitazawa “Curry Town”
Shimokitazawa, a cultural hub in Tokyo, is widely recognized as “Curry Town” due to its impressive number of curry restaurants. The hip and bohemian area has embraced curry culture for decades, with a variety of styles ranging from traditional Japanese curry rice to Indian-inspired and spice-rich soup curries. Shimokitazawa is also known for its artsy, laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect place to explore unique curry dishes while strolling through its vintage shops and retro cafes.
Shimokitazawa Curry Festival
Every October, Shimokitazawa hosts the Shimokitazawa Curry Festival, a highly anticipated event where participating restaurants serve exclusive festival-only curries. Cafes, izakayas, bars, and ramen shops take part too. Visitors can try mini portions of various curry dishes, making it a fantastic opportunity to sample a variety of flavors. From rich, hearty curries to spicy soup curries and even curry bread, the festival is a must-visit for any curry lover. There are also many curry-related prizes available for participants who collect the most stamps during the festival’s stamp rally. You can collect stamps by eating curry, buying sweets, shopping, and completing missions!
Must-Visit Curry Places
1. Nasu Oyaji Curry
One of the oldest curry spots in Shimokitazawa, Nasu Oyaji Curry has been serving delicious homemade curry since 1990. Their specialty is a rich, vegetable-based curry with a deep umami flavor, often featuring their signature eggplant topping. Kinako, vegetable, beef and chicken curries are very popular. They also have live music events, records and coffee for sale. The restaurant is open noon – 10:00 PM and is a 4-minute walk from Shimokitazawa.
2. PANNYA CAFE CURRY
PANNYA CAFE CURRY is famous for its delicate balance of spices and smooth, aromatic curry sauce. The stylish cafe setting provides a cozy environment to enjoy an elevated take on Indian curry. Menu options include maha cutlet curry, and the chicken and keema curry. You can choose from a wide selection of toppings and drinks. The restaurant is open 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Mon and Tue), 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM and 5:30 – 10:00 PM (Thu – Sun).
PANNYA CAFE CURRY
3. Oishii Karee
True to its name, Oishii Karee (or “Delicious Curry”) offers a variety of flavors, including spicy keema curry and classic Japanese-style curry rice. Their dishes feature fresh ingredients and bold spices. The restaurant is open 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM (closed on Mon) and is a 2-3-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station.
4. Kyu Yamu Tei Shimokita So
With various locations around Tokyo, this restaurant specializes in authentic, slow-cooked curry dishes bursting with deep flavors. Their hearty curry bowls like the special mixed curry and the seasonal domestic pork cutlet curry are popular among locals and visitors alike! Customers also love their small dishes such as oyster achar and spiced grilled chicken breast. The restaurant is open 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM and 6:00 – 9:00 PM (Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri), and 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM and 5:30 – 9:00 (Sat, Sun, public holidays). It’s a 7-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station.
5. Curry Spice Gelateria KALPASI
A unique blend of curry and gelato flavors, Curry Spice Gelateria KALPASI is a must-visit for adventurous foodies looking for creative takes on curry cuisine. Their menu includes vegetable istu curry, bitter chicken curry, Nepali pork curry and chicken keema curry. The gelato is amazing, with innovative options like the cardamom pink grapefruit, lemongrass yogurt, tropical garam masala and spiced rooibos tea. The restaurant is open 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (closed on Thu) and is a 2-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station.
6. Hachigatsu Curry
Hachigatsu Curry is known for its deep, aromatic flavors and a focus on natural ingredients without additives. Their cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to unwind while enjoying a steaming bowl of their special Hachigatsu curry. Other curries such as mixed keema, shrimp and stewed hamburger. The operating hours are 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon – Fri) and 11:30 – 20:30 (Sat, Sun and public holidays).
7. Anjali
For those craving authentic Indian-style curry, Anjali offers a flavorful mix of spice-infused dishes. From rich butter chicken to hearty vegetarian curries, there’s something for every palate. Their opening hours are 12:00 – 3:00 PM (Mon, Tue), 12:00 – 3:00 PM and 6:00 – 8:30 PM (Thu, Fri), 12:00 – 3:30 PM and 6:00 – 8:30 PM (Sat, public holiday), and 12:00 – 3:30 PM (Sun).
8. Soup Curry and Dining ELVIS
Known for its delicious soup curry, ELVIS offers a flavorful broth-based curry filled with tender meats and fresh vegetables. The menu includes crispy chicken curry, lamb shabu curry and the delicious Hokkaido Mochi Pork Kakuni Curry. For dinner, they offer two ELVIS Dinner Course options. Their operating hours are 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 5:00-9:00 PM (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri), and 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Sat, Sun, Holidays).
Soup Curry and Dining ELVIS
9. Magic Spice Tokyo Goten
Magic Spice is famous for its soul-warming soup curry, filled with a rich, spiced broth and an array of toppings. You can choose from seven different spiciness levels to customize your dish to your heart’s content. Soup curry options include chicken, seafood, hamburger steak and momo (Nepalese gyoza). Their Tokyo location is open from 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM and 5:30 – 11:00 PM (Mon, Thu, Fri) and 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM (Sat, Sun, public holidays), and is a 4-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station.
Magic Spice Tokyo Goten
10. Rojiura Curry SAMURAI. Shimokitazawa
SAMURAI is known for its vibrant, vegetable-packed soup curries. The deep flavors and healthy ingredients make it a favorite among health-conscious diners. The vegetables and rice are procured from Hokkaido farms with a high reputation for freshness and quality. Their dishes are made fresh daily without chemical seasonings, flour, or oil. Diners can choose the curry (such as chicken and 20 kinds of veggies, or braised pork belly and 12 kinds of veggies), soup base (regular, mild, coconut or mild coconut), spiciness level (0 to 10), and rice portion size. The restaurant is open from 11 AM – 3:30 PM and 5:30 – 9:00 PM (Mon-Fri) and 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Sat and Sun).
Rojiura Curry SAMURAI. Shimokitazawa
Shimokitazawa’s curry scene is as diverse and exciting as its vibrant streets. Whether you’re visiting during the Curry Festival or just exploring the area, these must-visit spots promise an unforgettable dining experience. Grab your spoon and get ready to enjoy some of the best curry dishes Tokyo has to offer!
Japan Wonder Travel Tours
Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.
From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!
In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or need some help!
▶Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour
Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides!
▶Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours)
There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.
▶Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo
Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.
▶Kyoto Private Full Day Walking Tour
On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!
Happy traveling!
Subscribe to our newsletter!
