Tokyo’s Curry Capital: 4 Must-Try Curry Shops in Jinbocho
- Frank Striegl
- Jan 14
- 3 min read
Jinbocho isn’t just Tokyo’s bookstore district.
It’s also one of the city’s most concentrated curry areas - old-school diners, European-style curry houses, and modern spice curry shops all packed into just a few blocks.
With so many curry shops in such a small area, choosing where to start can be overwhelming.
These four standout spots show just how diverse Jinbocho's curry scene can be, from nostalgic katsukare to colorful, spice-driven plates.
1. Kitchen Nankai - Old-School Katsukare With a Jet-Black Roux
If you want classic Japanese curry done right, start here.
Kitchen Nankai (キッチン南海 神保町店) serves one of Tokyo’s best katsukare (katsu curry) plates: crispy tonkatsu on rice, covered in their signature jet-black curry sauce. The sauce is sweet, slightly spicy, savory, and deeply nostalgic. It's the kind of flavor you only get from a shop that’s been serving the same dish for decades.
It’s simple food, done with confidence - and done the same way for years.
You’re here for comfort, speed, and a true “everyday Tokyo” experience. Lines form during peak hours, but they move quickly.
Vibe: Old-school diner, counter seating, fast turnover
What to order: Katsukare (Katsu Curry)
Why it’s special: That jet-black roux - sweet, spicy, and addictive
2. Gavial - Refined European-Style Curry in a Jazz-Filled Space
Gavial (ガヴィアル) is Jinbocho’s more refined curry option - ideal if you’re in the mood for something rich, elegant, and slow-cooked.
Inside, expect warm lighting, wooden décor, and soft jazz playing in the background. The curry arrives tableside in a polished metal pot, and you pour it over your rice yourself. It’s a little theatrical, but the flavor backs it up - velvety, buttery curry with real depth.
Seafood curry, beef curry, and cheese-topped variations are all excellent.
If you’re looking for the most refined curry experience among Jinbocho curry shops, this is it.
Vibe: Relaxed, warm, low-lit, jazz playing
What to order: Seafood curry with cheese
Why it’s special: Slow-cooked European-style curry with a rich, buttery finish
3. Ethiopia - Spice-Forward, Vegetable-Heavy Curry With Serious Depth
Ethiopia (エチオピア 本店) is the shop that surprises people.
The curry here is lighter and far more spice-driven than typical Japanese curry. You choose your spice level from a wide scale, and the kitchen uses dozens of spices to create a bright, earthy flavor with slow-building heat. Many dishes come piled with vegetables, giving the curry a refreshing, almost South Asian or even North African feel. This is very different from standard Japanese roux.
It’s hearty without being heavy, making it a great contrast to more traditional Jinbocho curry shops.
Another bonus: Ethiopia usually doesn’t have much of a line, which makes it an easy option for a spontaneous lunch.
Vibe: Simple, no-frills, counter-focused
What to order: Chicken or vegetable curry (spice level 5+ if you like heat)
Why it’s special: Spice-driven curry with tons of vegetables and customizable heat
4. Takeuchi - Colorful, Modern Spice Curry With Big Personality
Takeuchi (タケウチ) is where Jinbocho’s curry scene gets playful.
This modern spice-curry shop serves dishes that look like edible artwork - vibrant colors, layered curries, scattered herbs, and bold toppings. Many plates include multiple curry types, each with its own personality, creating a fun mix-and-match experience.
Expect bright spices, tangy notes, creamy elements, and plenty of contrast from bite to bite.
It’s expressive, creative, and consistently the highest-rated curry shop in Jinbocho.
Because of its popularity, expect a line during lunch hours - but the payoff is worth it.
Vibe: Casual, modern, slightly bohemian
What to order: Moriawase-style mixed curry plate
Why it’s special: Multi-curry plates bursting with color, creativity, and spice
Quick Tips for Eating Curry in Jinbocho
• Lines:
– Expect lines at Kitchen Nankai and Takeuchi
– Usually no major wait at Ethiopia
– Moderate or no wait at Gavial
• Cash vs card: Some shops are cash-forward - bring cash just in case.
• Timing: Lunchtime is peak. Go early if you want a shorter wait.
• Try more than one: All four Jinbocho curry shops are within minutes of each other - perfect for a mini curry crawl.
Looking for More Local Food Spots in Tokyo? Follow Japan Food Travels for more neighborhood food guides, hidden gems, and Tokyo itineraries built around how locals actually eat.
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