Japanese Curry
カレー
The Japanese version of Indian curry, milder and thicker, has become a national comfort food. Infinitely customizable to your taste.
Unique Japanese Curry
Introduced in the Meiji era via the British Navy, Japanese curry has evolved to become milder and thicker than the original Indian version, adapted to the Japanese palate.
Served with white rice, it has become so popular that it's considered one of Japan's three national dishes along with ramen and sushi.
Popular Curry Types
Katsu Curry
カツカレー
Curry with breaded pork cutlet, the most popular in Japan
Chicken Curry
チキンカレー
Curry with tender chicken pieces, classic option
Vegetable Curry
野菜カレー
Vegetable curry, perfect for vegetarians
Seafood Curry
シーフードカレー
Seafood curry, specialty of certain chains
Beef Curry
ビーフカレー
Curry with braised beef, premium version
Spice Level Guide
Level 0
Very mild
甘口
For children and beginners
Level 1
Mild
やや甘口
Slightly spiced
Level 2
Normal
普通
Japanese standard
Level 3
Medium spicy
やや辛口
Starts to tingle
Level 5
Spicy
辛口
For enthusiasts
Level 10
Very spicy
激辛
Extreme challenge!
🌶️ Tip for beginners
Start with level 1-2. Level 0 is very mild (suitable for children). Levels 5+ are for spice lovers! You can always add spice but you can't remove it.
Major Curry Chains
CoCo壱番屋
ココイチ
CoCo Ichibanya
The undisputed king of Japanese curry with over 1,400 restaurants worldwide. Known for its infinite customization options.
Specialties:
Pork katsu curry, Vegetarian curry, Spicy level 10 curry
Unique Features:
21 spice levels, Over 40 toppings, Certified vegan options
Go!Go!Curry
ゴーゴーカレー
Go Go Curry
Chain from Kanazawa, famous for its thick black curry and unique retro atmosphere.
Specialties:
Kanazawa black curry, Major Curry, Champion Curry
Unique Features:
Signature black curry, Baseball theme, XXL portions available
Sukiya Curry
すき家カレー
Sukiya Curry
Curry extension of the famous Sukiya chain, offering curry and gyūdon in the same restaurant.
Specialties:
Curry Gyūdon, Cheese Curry, Katsu Curry
Unique Features:
Curry + gyūdon combination, Affordable prices, 24/7 service
How to Order Japanese Curry
1. Curry Type
- • Choose your base (pork, chicken, vegetables...)
- • Katsu curry = most popular
- • Vegetarian available everywhere
2. Spice Level
- • From 0 (very mild) to 10 (extreme)
- • Level 2 = standard for beginners
- • You can ask "Kara-sa wa?" (Spicy?)
3. Portion
- • Normal rice = free
- • Large (大盛) = +¥100-200
- • Extra curry = more sauce
4. Toppings
- • Egg (卵) = +¥100
- • Cheese (チーズ) = +¥150
- • Extra vegetables
Useful Phrases
Katsu karē kudasai カツカレーください
A katsu curry, please
Ni-ban onegaishimasu 2番お願いします
Spice level 2, please
Ōmori dekimasu ka? 大盛りできますか？
Can you make a large portion?
Yasai karē arimasu ka? 野菜カレーありますか？
Do you have vegetarian curry?