Popular Smoked Curry Shop Kunkare to Re-Open in Akasaka on November 27

15.November.2018 | FOOD

Popular smoked curry restaurant Kunkare is set to re-open along Hitotsukidori in Akasaka on November 27.

Kunkare was first established in 2011 in the quaint district of Ningyocho, Akasaka. It was the first curry roux restaurant in Japan to serve smoked curry and acquired a patent for its unique cooking method.

 

In line with the restaurant’s move to Akasaka, they have changed he taste of the curry. It still retains that smokiness but the flavour of the spices has been made more prominent.

All of the other items on the menu have been upgraded too, giving rise to an all-new Kunkare.

 

Tokusei Curry: ¥1,180 (Tax Included)

The Tokusei Curry (literally “specially made curry”) was always the No. 1 most popular dish when the restaurant was based in Ningyocho. This is an upgraded version served on a specially made and original Hasami ware curry plate.

Irodori Yasai x Curry: ¥850 (Tax Included)

This curry dish comes with colourful and seasonal vegetables and an upgraded smoked curry served with turmeric rice.

Another service to look forward to falls on Saturday every week where Kunkare will serve popular curry dishes from famous restaurants in the local area. The first item on the menu is a keema curry from Kai, a cafe and bar in Fukuoka that has continued to be loved for 19 years and which brings in lines of customers. Limited quantities will be served, so you’d better get in there quick if you want to enjoy some authentic Indian cuisine laced with a Japanese touch – salted rice malt, condiment paste made from yuzu zest and chilli peppers, Japanese pepper and more.

 

Kunkare is a place where you can expect to try curry you won’t find anywhere else.

RECOMMENDED ENTRIES

  • Top 7 Places to Eat Curry in Harajuku Not Known by Many People

    08.May.2018 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

    Did you know that there are lots of places to eat irresistibly delicious curry in Harajuku, but not that many people know about them yet? Now you can get in on the secret.

    From standard Japanese-style curry to more unique flavours, here’s our list.

     

     

    Suzuki Satomiさん(@_suzukisatomi_)がシェアした投稿

    YOGORO

    This spinach-based chicken curry (¥900) is a reputable item on YOGORO’s menu, made in a tetsunabe pot! There are two types to choose from: one with spicy tomato as the base and fresh cream, and a milder version made with spinach. You can pick from pork and chicken for the meat to enjoy an original combination. We also recommend it topped with the soft-boiled egg!

     

    ■Information
    YOGORO
    YOGORO
    Address: Komatsu Bldg. 1F, 2-20-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours:
    [Monday-Friday] 11:30-16:00 / 18:00-20:00
    [Saturday] 11:30-16:00
    Closed: Sundays & Public Holidays
    TEL: 03-3746-9914
    Webpage: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1306/A130601/13076645/

     

     

    @beggar_manがシェアした投稿

    Minoringo

    This Keema curry (¥900) looks just like a decorative cake. The top of the curry is flooded with cheese. Its rich flavour is simply irresistible! We also recommend the standard Keema curry without the cheese too♡

     

    ■Information
    Minoringo
    Address: West Bldg. 1F, 1-22-7 Jingumae, Shibuya, Toyko
    Opening Hours:
    [Tuesday-Friday] 11:30-15:00 / 18:30-21:30
    [Weekends & Holidays] 11:30-19:00
    Closed: Mondays
    TEL: 03-6447-2414
    Website: http://www.minoringo.jp

     

     

    Curry Up
    This curry house is produced by ‘A Bathing Ape’ founder NIGO. The beef & butter chicken curry (¥1,100) has a distinct mild yet rich taste to it. It’s enjoyable to enjoy two different flavours in one as seen in the picture. You can also combine your own flavours to your liking.

     

    ■Information
    Curry Up
    Address: 105, 2-35-9 Jinguae, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours:
    [Monday-Saturday] 11:30-21:00 (Last Orders 20:30)
    [Sunday & Holidays] 11:30-20:00 (Last Orders 19:30)
    No Fixed Holidays.
    TEL: 03-5775-5446
    Website: http://www.curryup.jp

     

     

    Akiko Shibataさん(@akiko.shibata)がシェアした投稿

    SHANTi
    If we’re talking soup curry, then where else to go than SHANTi. The spice is on point and there’s a hearty serving of vegetables. There’s also many varieties of curry to choose from, so expect to be spoilt for choice. During lunchtime you can get a large serving of rice for free, and you’re free to enjoy a second helping, so if you’re a big eater, look no further.

     

    ■Information
    SHANTi
    Address: Honorary Harajuku Bldg. 2F, 3-26-11 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 11:30-00:00 (Last Orders)
    No Fixed Holidays.
    TEL: 03-5772-6424
    Website: http://www.shanticurry.com

     

     

    @mi__ko__がシェアした投稿

    BRITISH INDIAN CAFE 1930
    You wouldn’t think that this is a curry house, with its landmark stylish red wall. They serve Indian curry made the way the British do. Their popular butter chicken curry mixes together honey and fresh cream to give it its distinct sweet flavour. The faint spiciness and milk sweetness has made it a particularly popular dish with female customers. The softness of the tandoori chicken is great too. Being British-style, the curry goes well together with black tea.

     

    ■Information
    BRITISH INDIAN CAFE 1930
    Address: 3-27-7 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 11:30-21:00
    No Fixed Holidays.
    TEL: 050-5590-0486
    Website: http://cafe-1930.com

     

     

    @i.nori_jpがシェアした投稿

    HENDRIX
    You could call the chefs at HENDRIX spice masters. They’re extremely thorough and attentive with the timing of when they put their spices in the curry. A popular dish on their menu is their pork curry. It’s cooked gradually with a large amount of spice and has a deep flavour that doesn’t just simply scream ‘hot.’ They’re also particular about their saffron rice which complements the curry. They use only koshihikari rice from the city of Inzai in Chiba Prefecture. The fact they’re even particular about the rice means you can look forward to some truly layered flavours!

     

    ■Information
    Address: 2-13-2 Jingumae, Shibuya Tokyo
    Opening Hours: 11:30-14:30 / 18:00-23:00
    Closed: Sundays & Public Holidays
    TEL: 03-3479-3857
    Webpage: https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1309/A130901/13007422/

     

     

    mokubaza

    MOKUBABZA

    This keema curry restaurant is located on the corner of a secluded street. It originally used to open only as a night bar, but keema curry became the talk of the town for being delicious, so it came to be open during lunchtime too. The most popular item on their menu is undoubtedly their ‘Cheese Keema Curry.’ It offers a large serving of rice topped with keema curry and melty mozzarella cheese. Placed again on top of that is a perfectly round egg yolk, giving it a unique appearance. This exquisite dish is cooked thoroughly with carefully selected spices.

     

    Full Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/38757/2

     

    ■Informaiton

    CURRY & BAR – “MOKUBAZA”

    Address: 2-28-12 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo

    Opening Hours: 11:00-15:00 (Lunch Time) / 19:30-23:30 (Bar Time)

    Closed: Sundays & Holidays (Only closed for lunch on Sundays)

    TEL: 03-3404-2606

    Website: www.mokubaza.com/

     

    Drooling yet? You’ve absolutely got to try the exquisite curry hidden away in Harajuku. Tuck in during lunchtime or dinnertime!

     

  • The Curry Theme Park “Curry Land” in Asakusa—Stocked With Pouch-Curries from All Around Japan

    04.August.2017 | FEATURES / FOOD

    “I wanna eat curry for breakfast, lunch and dinner all year round!” If you’re a curry lover, and a curry lover to that extent, then do I have the perfect article for you. With just my purse, camera and undying love for curry in hand, I, Rinko Murata, am on a mission to find the best curry houses in the city that are approved by both myself and others.

    This time, I visited “Curry Land” in Asakusa, a place that specialises in local curry-in-a-pouch! I was guided to the dazzling world of curry by its fascinating owner, where every possible retort-pouch curry, from all times and all places, were collected together!

    Asakusa’s Kaminarimon—a majestically built gate. I glanced a certain shop out the corner of my eye when I was looking at a group of cute girls in kimono taking a photo in front of the gorgeous gate. I thought when coming here I had entered a quiet residential area, but I suddenly felt something strange in the air around me.

    Oooooh! What could this be!
    There it was, the striking signboard of Curry Land. Below it, at the entrance, was the shop window—that was completely covered in pouch-curries!

    And at the storefront was something I had never seen before… they even had a curry vending machine!

    That’s right! This time, coming to Asakusa, I have found a place truly spectacular!
    For me and other people who cannot contain their love for curry, even the entrance is welcoming at this dream theme park called “Curry Land,” with curry from all around Japan there to greet us.


    ※ The ranking of recommended curry changes every month

    The shelves are packed and lined with pouch-curries and divided by the region that they come from. From Hokkaido all the way to Okinawa, they boast an immense selection of curries from all prefectures around Japan!

     

     >>next page

  • “Mount Fuji Curry” Arrives at Lava Cafe in Fujisan World Heritage Center

    11.May.2018 | FOOD

    The Lava Cafe, located in the north block of the Fujisan World Heritage Center in Yamanashi Prefecture, has introduced the new Mt. Fuji Curry to its menu.

     

    The blue coloured curry dish is made to look just like Mount Fuji while the pickles represent the surrounding forest at the base of the mountain Aokigahara, also known as the ‘Sea of Trees.’ This Instagrammable meal is aimed at both Japanese and foreign tourists.

     

    富士山カレー

    There have been many curry dishes on the market with rice formed in the shape of Mount Fuji, but this dish not only maintains the shape, but the colouring too. It took them over half a year to perfect the dish.

     

    The cafe will also begin serving a ‘mega size’ version of the blue curry from June 22 to bring it closer to the size of Mount Fuji. They also plan to release a spicy red version in autumn to bring to life the scene when Mount Fuji appears red when the sun’s rays shine over it. Make sure you don’t miss out on this one either.

     

    Head to the Lava Cafe to try eating this stunning curry that you can’t get anywhere else!

     

    ■Information

    Lava Cafe

    Address: Fujisan World Heritage Center North Block 2F, 6663-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture

    Opening Hours: 09:30-16:30 (Last Orders 16:00)

    No Fixed Holidays.

    TEL: 0555-72-0259

    Information: https://tabelog.com/yamanashi/A1903/A190301/19009495/

     

    Mt. Fuji Curry

    Price: ¥1,000 (Tax-Included)

    *There is also a Halal option.

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  • Ornament-Like Cake Parfaits Now Being Baked Up at Pascal Le Gac Tokyo in Akasaka

    05.April.2020 | FOOD

    Pascal Le Gac Tokyo is the first overseas branch of internationally-recognised French-based chocolate company Pascal Le Gac which released some breathtaking new desserts to its menu on Wednesday.

    Chocolate Parfait Flurry / Phrase Parfait Flurry

    The original Parfait Flurry desserts are made in the image of a bloomed flower. When they were released back in April 2019, they instantly garnered attention across social media and news websites for their gorgeous design. Pascal Le Gac Tokyo has brought them back to the menu, this time in the form of cakes.

     

    Cakes that are like parfaits

    The new desserts take the same concept of the original parfaits, but instead turns them into cakes. But that doesn’t simply mean taking the parfait ingredients as they are and turning them into a cake. Rather, the cakes recreate the taste of the parfaits, so it’s like eating the real thing. The wine glass that the parfaits were served in have been recreated using icing to give that shiny effect, and the chocolate flowers have been cut thin so they are easy to eat.

    Chocolate Flurry – ¥864 (Tax Included)

    Starting from the bottom upwards, the Chocolate Flurry is layered with chocolate cookie pieces, chocolate flavoured almond sponge, chocolate cream, chocolate mousse, cacao flavoured vanilla cream, more chocolate cream, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and chocolate glaçage. Every part of this art piece is made with cacao.

    Phrase Flurry (Tax Included)

    Starting from the bottom upwards, the Phrase Flurry is layered with pistachio cookie pieces, almond sponge, pistachio mousse, strawberry mousse, lychee jelly, strawberry compote, raspberry flavoured fresh cream, strawberry chocolate, and red glaçage. The marriage of strawberry, lychee, and pistachio flavours is nothing short of heavenly.

     

    *Please note that opening hours and closures are subject to change depending on the situation of the coronavirus outbreak. Check the cafe’s official website for the latest details.

  • Akasaka Yuuga: The New Japanese Restaurant in Tokyo’s Gourmet Warzone Akasaka

    13.December.2019 | FOOD

    Akasaka is known as a warzone when it comes to gourmet restaurants, but a new contender has arrived. Akasaka Yuuga opened this month in Akasaka Ni-chome, Tokyo. This restaurant serves Japanese style cuisine featuring carefully selected flavours taken from across the country.

    Yuuga gets most of their fish from Choshi Port, which boasts the best fish yield in Japan, as well as other carefully chosen seafood from across Japan in addition to seasonal vegetables. They bring out the full flavour of their ingredients, all of which are matched to the current season. They even serve Japanese black beef.

    Their concept centres on how recognised and loved Japanese food is internationally. The restaurant makes full use of Japan’s traditional food culture and prepares food using a variety of cooking methods. Everything in the restaurant is carefully considered to ensure diners enjoy their meal experience with all five senses, from not only the food but the decor and hospitality too. There are also counter seats available for customers who want to watch their food being prepared while they talk, whether to their friends or with the skilled chefs, offering an unforgettable dining experience for Japanese people and foreigners alike. There are also private eating booths for those who want to eat with friends, family, or celebrate a special day.

     

    Nijushisekki

    Nijushisekki refers to the days that divide the solar year into twenty four equal sections and highlight the longest days of sun in summer, the shortest days in winter, and the days being the same in spring and autumn.

    The dishes at the restaurant reflect these regular changes; the dishes are not bound strictly by Japanese cuisine, but make use of various cooking and preparation methods, with thought and consideration put into every dish.

     

    Japanese Black Beef

    Yuuga prides itself not only on seasonal vegetable and fish-filled menu, which is both a feast for the belly and eyes, but on the beef used in its course meals too.

    Yuuga serves Japanese black beef which comes from a rare breed of cow which is difficult to rear. It has a distinct rich flavour and low melting point which gives it a melt-in-the-mouth texture.

     

    Courses

    There are three courses to choose from that cater to customers desires, costing ¥8,000, ¥12,000, and ¥20,000 respectively. This includes appetisers, and customers can choose from a range of wines from around the world select by sommeliers, as well as champagne, whisky, and of course sake and shochu.

  • Go Grape Picking, Buy Fresh Fruit and Veg & More at Hills Marche in Tokyo This Autumn

    06.September.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

    Hills Marche is a market held every Saturday at ARK Hills in Tokyo, and on September 28, it is set to hold the Hills Marche 10th Anniversary “Great Harvest Festival.”

     

    Hills Marche began in September 2009 as the first project of Marche Japon which is run by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. It has become one of Tokyo’s representative markets, with more than 740,000 people having attended since its establishment.

     

    The 10th Anniversary Great Harvest Festival brings together farmers from all across Japan, with fresh fruit and vegetables harvested from that morning. There will also be various events including a grape-picking session. Lots of lunch options will also be served using fresh vegetables used as the market.

     

    Farmers Band Together

    A total of 44 sellers from both Japan and overseas will set up shop for the Marche. The first 100 people to shop at over 5 stalls and collect the stamps will also receive a festival tote bag.

     

    Taste and Compare 10 Varieties Of Grape

    From popular varieties such as Shine Muscats to rarer, hard-to-find varieties, choose from 10 different types of grapes to enjoy. You’ll be surprised at how different their sweetness and sourness is!

     

    Go Grape Picking

    Have even more fun by picking your own grapes at Karayan Square. Kids and adults alike will enjoy this experience. Bring friends and family and relish in the flavours of the autumn harvest.

    Time: From 11:00

    Price: ¥500
    Anyone can join, but the grapes are limited in stock, so it’s first-come, first-served!

     

    Bistro Marche with Ark Hills Cafe

    The Ark Hills Cafe is also celebrating its 10th anniversary alongside Hills Marche and will collaborate with the market for the occasion. Tuck into a healthy buffet made with ingredients from Hills Marche and enjoy a saxophone performance by Japanese musician Shunosuke Ishikawa. There will also be discount lunches using the ingredients from the market from September 24 to 27.

    Price: General – ¥1,000 (Tax Included) / Elementary School Children & Younger – ¥500 (Tax Included)
    Time: 10:00-15:00 (Last Entries 14:00)

    Jazz Performances: ①11:15 / ②12:15 (subject to change)

    There’s plenty more to look forward to as well, including lots for parents and children to enjoy together such as workshops.

  • From July 25 to August 28, four Afternoon Tea shops will be collaborating with the French picture book Gaspard and Lisa to celebrate the book’s 20th anniversary. The collaboration will only be running at the following branches: AEON Lake Town kaze, Koshigaya, LaLaport Yokohama, Terrace Mall Shonan and Nagoya LACHIC.

    Tomboy Lisa Katsu Curry Plate (Drink included): ¥1,491 (after tax)  

    Lisa’s Tomato Chicken Curry (Kids Drink included) : ¥1,005 (after tax) 

    The Tomboy Lisa Katsu Curry Plate consists of a European-style curry with a crispy chicken cutlet and carrot marinade. There is also a sweet apple and honey tomato chicken curry which is limited to kids only.

    Peach Peach Clown Parfait Straight Out of the Picture Book: ¥1,404 (after tax)

    Lisa and Gaspard Strawberry/ Melon Sundae Sodas: ¥864 (after tax)

    The menu also includes desserts and drinks from the picture book. For example, the peach peach clown parfait and two flavours of Lisa and Gaspard Sundae Soda. Make sure you order one of these drinks to go with one of the five delicious collaboration meals. 

     

    During the collaboration period, the tea shop will be decorated with a special Lisa and Gaspard theme. There will be photo spots and even a book corner with 20 Lisa and Gaspard books (limited to Nagoya LACHIC only).

     

    This is the perfect place to enjoy a special summer meal with your family so please check it out!

     

     

    ©2019 Anne Gutman & Georg Hallensleben / Hachette Livre

  • Tokyo Stroll: Walking Through Akasaka Palace, a European-Style Splendor

    29.May.2019 | FEATURES / SPOT

    Akasaka Palace―a building that has welcomed emperors, presidents and prime ministers across the world into its architectural wonders. While it is mainly used for official purposes, did you know that it also offers a public viewing, one that doesn’t hinder on business affairs?

     

    The palace is considered a national treasure of Japan. I paid a visit to this gorgeous edifice that looks just like a European-style palace. Photography is strictly forbidden when visiting, but I was able to receive special permission to cover the inner secrets of this exclusive wonder.

    Akasaka Palace is open throughout the year. There is a daytime reception that lets you enter without having to book a spot in advance (though you’ll have to book if you want to visit the Japanese Style Annex). Visitation is restricted when international state officials are present, so when planning your trip be sure to check the palace’s schedule on the official website. Visitation through the daytime reception begins at the West Gate.

    Originally built in 1909 as the Imperial Palace for the Crown Prince, the building is the only example of neo-Baroque architecture in Japan. It was built by Japanese imperial court architect Katayama Tōkuma. When planning the design for the building, he referenced various palaces across Europe which is why people liken it to Palace of Versailles in France.

     

    Hagoromo no Ma – A reception hall for visitation welcomings

    The first room you come to on the public viewing is “Hagoromo no Ma.” It was originally called a ball room which is why it houses orchestra boxes. Aperitifs dance around the room for invitees who may be there for send-offs, dinner parties or even musical performances.

    Overhead is a gorgeous chandelier which is made up of almost 7,000 separate parts, most of which is crystal. It is the biggest chandelier in the entire palace. The inner part of the mezzanine floor, which looks like a balcony, is used as an orchestra box when the room is used for orchestral concerts.

    The intricate design of the chandelier includes masks inspired by a ball while the walls too are littered with relevant motifs such as instruments. The whole room is decorated in all things musical.

     

    Asahi no Ma – The most high-class room of the palace

    The next room you step into is “Asahi no Ma” which is used for courtesy calls of officials and important people as well as summit meetings. It is the most high-class room in all of Akasaka Palace and is where the state guests say their goodbyes to the Emperor and Empress. The room began reconstruction two years ago and reopened in April this year.

    The room gets its name Asahi (“morning sun”) from the painting of Aurora, the Roman Goddess of dawn, that overlooks the room.

    It is said that in the Meiji Period, when the palace was built, people painted pictures of helmets to symbolize the army and boats to symbolize the navy as the country declared the political measure known as Fukoku kyōhei, which meant to “Enrich the Country, Strengthen the Armed Forces.”

     

    Shoumen Genkan/Large Hall – Welcoming guests of honour

    The “Shoumen Genkan,” or front entrance is where international guests of honour are welcomed. When visiting during public opening hours you don’t enter from this entrance but you are allowed inside. The large hall, which is located up the stairs from the hall that continues through the entrance room, has a striking and vivid deep crimson carpet. Together with the eight towering marble pillars, this hall makes for an overwhelming viewing. The room directly opposite down the stairs is Asahi no Ma.

     

    Sairan no Ma – Where treaties are signed

    The next most high-class room from Asahi no Ma is “Sairan no Ma” which is primarily used for signing ceremonies of treaties. When Asahi no Ma was undergoing renovations, this room was used for informal talks carried out by the emperor and prime minister with foreign rulers.

    The entire room takes on the Empire style which was popular during the rule of Napoleon I. Scattered throughout the room are gold leaf designs of armour, helmets, swords and so on.

     

    Kacho no Ma – Dinner parties with guests of honour

    Kacho no Ma is used for dinner banquets with important official from countries around the world. The room has a more relaxed feeling from the others due to its interior wooden design. It’s also often used for press conferences so those who watch Japanese news may recognise it.

    The room, with its mellow deep wooden design, houses 30 oval cloisonné medallions, depicting four seasons’ flowers and birds. The ceiling art, too, depicts images of birds and wildlife killed by hunting.

    It also has the heaviest chandelier in the palace inside which is a globular speaker.

     

    Yushintei – Japanese-style hospitality in the Japanese Style Annex

    The Yushintei is located in the Japanese Style Annex on the west side of Akasaka Palace. It was built in 1974. Akasaka Palace carries out events and receptions in a western style but the Yushintei welcomes international guests of honour with Japanese-style hospitality. Those who wish to enter must book in advance. The booking comes with a tour.

    As you step through the entrance and into the inner garden through the passage, you will see moso bamboo. This area has a garden with shirakawa gravel and kibune stone from Kyoto.

    In the main Japanese-style room where guests are served Japanese food one can observe the pond from the window. You might recognise it as the place where Prime Minster Shinzo Abe and President Donald Trump fed the fish.

    The tea room comes with chairs for foreign visitors who are unable to sit in the traditional Japanese seiza position. Tea is prepared on the upper step which is inspired by Noh theatre.

     

    Afternoon tea in the extraordinary front garden

    20 afternoon tea sets are prepared each day to be enjoyed in the front garden of Akasaka Palace. These cannot be reserved in advance so be sure to arrive early if you’d like to order one. As you enjoy your afternoon tea while gazing around you are filled with a gorgeous feeling you can’t experience anywhere else.

    The general public viewing offers a chance to see numerous parts of the palace. We asked Rinko Murata, who’s pictured in the photos on the viewing, for her thoughts.

     

    “With the first step you take in a gorgeous space unfolds before you. Its grand design made me feel as if I had been summoned to the palace. It was like visiting a foreign country. When you look closely there are lots of decorations that symbolize Japan. It was a fresh experience where you can feel both the Japanese spirit and culture of another country. I feel moved that Japan has such a place as beautiful as this. You all need to visit too.”

     

    There is no requirement to book this viewing in advance, but during busy times (20+ people) those who do book online prior to visiting will be prioritized. Foreign visitors won’t miss out on anything either as they can purchase a voice guide machine for ¥200. These guides come in Japanese, English, Chinese, French and Spanish. A visit to the Japanese Style Annex Yushintei however requires booking prior to your visit. When doing so you can choose between either a Japanese or English-speaking guide. In the case of a sudden official reception, all scheduled public viewings for that day are cancelled, so be sure to check the calendar on the official website before heading there.

     

    Model:Rinko Murata

    Writer:Sayoko Ishi

    Photographer:Kayo Sekiguchi

    Translation: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

    TALENT PROFILE

    Rinko Murata

    Rinko Murata works in fashion and is active on radio and TV. Sales of her first style book were so successful that it required extra printing during its first week. She also has a rapidly growing following on her social media. As well as modelling at big fashion events, she has her own column online at “She magazine,” and receives much attention for her work in the areas of culture and lifestyle.

  • See Inside the Gorgeous Akasaka Palace in This New Promotional Video

    17.March.2019 | SPOT

    The Akasaka Palace State Guest House is considered one of Japan’s National Treasures in the architecture department. Originally built in 1909 as the Imperial Palace for the Crown Prince, the building is the only example of neo-Baroque architecture in Japan. To date, it has opened its doors to emperors, presidents and prime minsters, and has even served as a venue for international conferences.

     


    An in-depth promotional video was recently released showcasing the outside and inside of the palace, shining light on its beautiful features and architecture.

    The video begins at the dazzling and elegant entrance. The door opens to reveal a crimson carpet sprawled across the floor which beckons you into a beautiful world.

    We then move into the Sairan no Ma, a hall guarded by golden phoenixes with enormous mirrors set against the wall. The room opens into an overwhelmingly spacious area.

    Next is the “Hagoromo no Ma” which houses the palace’s three biggest chandeliers each made up of almost 7,000 separate parts, mostly crystal.

    We then arrived at the “Asahi no Ma,” the most elegant room in the entire building. It is currently closed to restore the ceiling tiles and other parts of the room,  but it will re-open to the public on April 2, 2019. Overlooking the room on the ceiling is a painting of Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, chairs made with golden thread, hanging chandeliers, the purple carpet woven with 47 shades of purple, and so on.

     

    See the full beauty of the palace’s interior by checking out the video.

     

    *The photos shown are of the palace before repairs were carried out.

  • Tokyo Dinner: HEIJITSU HIRU DAKE’s Curry in Kōenji is Served With Japanese Stock

    10.March.2019 | FEATURES / FOOD / SPOT

    Rinko Murata loves all types of curry. In this edition of Tokyo Dinner, she invites the person she wants to meet up with the most to eat the curry she’s been wanting to eat the most.

     

    This month’s notable restaurant she stopped by was HEIJITSU HIRU DAKE in Kōenji, Tokyo. Their curry portions are generous and are good for the stomach and satiety center. They serve a curry flavoured with Japanese dashi, or ‘stock.’

     

    How do you spend your early afternoons when you have time off? Lounging around at home with quality time to yourself sounds like a good plan. Definitely appealing.

     

    But this is a rare opportunity. How about going on a little adventure to try something you can get a kick out of because it’s midday and a weekday?

     

    I know the perfect curry house for your hungry selves. HEIJITSU HIRU DAKE.

     

    As the Japanese name suggests, it’s a curry that can only be eaten at lunchtime, a mysterious dish that doesn’t appear on regular days off.

     

    I land in Kōenji, a place I love the most. Even though iKōenji is Kōenji, the closest station to the restaurant is Higashi-Kōenji Station.

    My vision is filled with all kinds of sights.

    It’s like being lost in a treasure chest.

    This place is actually normally a café and goes by the name Schwarze Katze. It’s open mainly on Friday night, weekends and holidays. “HEIJITSU HIRU DAKE” runs in a rented room in the café and and is open when the café is. It’s kind of luxurious to have the chance to eat my favourite food (curry!) in a place like this.

    My heart desires the Wadashi Soboro Curry (¥980) that I mentioned earlier. It also comes with self-service coffee for after your meal. For toppings you can choose whatever you like. Since I was there and didn’t want to get lost on what to pick, I went for all the toppings (¥300).

    The water I ordered comes in a plastic bottle. The tables have antique displays. Everything on them was wonderful.

    The air was clad in that rich, familiar scent of curry, a special one that I would never get to eat had I not come here.

    The instant I hold the curry in my mouth the delicious flavour of the dashi sparks in my mouth like fireworks. The broth has a slight thickness to it and a strong, deep flavour that fades into a soft aftertaste on the tip of your tongue. It’s not at all spicy, and the goodness of the dashi is luxurious like being escorted by a gentleman. And I can’t forget the smell.

    My taste buds throb at this new sensation.

    Like its name suggests, this is a dish where the Japanese dashi stands out above the ingredient crowd. The restaurant owner has gathered much experience in the kitchen from traditional Japanese cuisine to sushi, ramen, yakiniku, izakaya style and so on. He encountered this place by chance, and with one look he said to himself, “I want to try doing curry.” The Wadashi Soboro Curry came about through his gained culinary experience combined with the aesthetics of the café.

    To bring out the full flavour of the dashi so it isn’t drowned out by the curry spices, the owner uses two types of skipjack tuna, kombu, dark sleeper, and dried sea slug, as well as a type of soy sauce called Kaeshi. 15 more ingredients are blended together to create the spices, creating deep and delicate flavours.

    Now it’s time for a session with the mountain of ingredients I greedily asked for. It’s enshrined with classics like meat soboro, beefsteak, agedama, bonito flakes, and dried plum in addition to pickled daikon radish, crushed natto, Japanese ginger, and okra. The spinach and onsen tamago egg sit at the foot of the mountain and create a new culinary sight.

    The base of the dashi is mobilized with a force of Japanese ingredients with a smell and flavour and that comes together harmoniously in your mouth. I’m spellbound by the flavours that stand out coupled with the pleasant textures of the agedama, daikon and ginger.

    Hey, I must have hit every ingredient in there. All correct.

     

    I added a sprinkle of pepper that was on the table and create yet another refreshing aromatic veil.

    The compatibility of the pepper with the dish works so well precisely because it uses a Japanese dashi. Wadashi, or Japanese broth, is a staple of Japanese cuisine. The curry and Japanese soul carved into this dish resonates with me. It’s my first time eating it, yet I’m still filled with a sort of nostalgia―a warm embrace.

    I also understand why when the shop opens, the customers in the café stand up and change with the next line of customers. The owner has a wonderful sensitivity, and has worked out a way to put his own matchless warmth into each and every bowl. I caught sight of his gentle smile as he was cooking in the kitchen. It left an impression on me.

    What a delicious curry to enjoy in such a wonderful place. All five of my senses have reached peak happiness. I grab my post-meal coffee and head onto the streets of Kōenji.

    What a wonderful weekday afternoon.

     

    Text:Rinko Murata
    Photo:Kayo Sekiguchi
    Edit:Miiki Sugita

    Translator: Joshua Kitosi-Isanga

  • Miyazaki Wagyu Beef Fair Takes Place at Wolfgang Puck Pizza Bar

    07.March.2019 | FOOD / SPOT

    Wolfgang Puck Pizza Bar is currently holding a fair for Miyazakigyu beef at its Akasaka Ark Hills and Osaka The Park Front Hotel branches until March 31.

    Miyazakigyu is a top brand beef and the only one to have won the Prime Minister’s Award three times in a row. Wolfgang Puck, the official caterer for the Academy Awards, has served Miyazakigyu to a host of Hollywood stars.

    Miyazakigyu A4 Grade Rib Eye Steak – Yuzu Japanese Sauce (150g): ¥5,000 (Before Tax)

    To bring out the full flavour of the rib eye steak, very simple cooking methods are used when roasting the meat.

    Miyazakigyu Premium Puck Burger: ¥2,000 (Before Tax)

    This juicy burger is modelled on Wolfgang Puck’s speciality recipe and uses a high quality Miyazakigyu patty.

     

    The cows used for Miyazakigyu are raised by farmers over a long period of time. Take advantage of this opportunity to try the premium cuts yourself.

  • Red Mount Fuji Curry Inspired by Japanese Ukiyo-e Painter Hokusai

    15.January.2019 | FOOD

    The Mount Fuji Lava Cafe, located in the Fujisan World Heritage Center in Yamanashi Prefecture, released a new Red Mount Fuji Curry on January 12 inspired by the woodblock print Fine Wind, Clear Morning from Hokusai’s Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji series of landscape prints.

    Red Mount Fuji Curry: ¥1,500 (Tax Included)

    This red hot lava curry gets its vibrant colour from its picante spices and red chili oil. But it’s not simply a bowl of spiciness – it also has typical Japanese flavours like a dashi made from skipjack tuna and kombu. It’s also mixed with grape juice made from grapes grown in Fuefuki, Yananashi for deeper flavour.

    Upon ordering this curry you can pick from three different levels of spiciness. Those who order the highest level, dubbed “Mount Fuji’s Peak,” are offer to take part in an eating challenge. If you’re able to devour the hottest version of this curry within 22 minutes and 30 seconds the price of your bill will be wiped and you will receive a free ice cream.

    The Red Mount Fuji Curry serves as a follow up to the cafe’s original Blue Mount Fuji Curry which erupted in popularity on Japanese social media.

  • Nights in Akasaka Finish With Shaved Ice at ‘Kakigori Lounge Akasaka’ Night Café

    03.December.2018 | FOOD / SPOT

    Kakigori Lounge Akasaka opened in August this year where they have sold fluffy and mouth-watering shaved ice made with a homemade dulce sauce―which is free from additives and colouring agents―and authentic ‘pure’ ice made by ice shops.

    Until now the café was open until 9:00PM but from November 29 they will cater to sweet tooth night owls and open from midnight until 2:00AM.

     

    The shaved ice served here doesn’t give you bodily chills because it melts the moment it enters your mouth. Shaved ice is gaining popularity as a finisher over something like ramen when someone has had a few too many drinks and needs something sugary or with carbohydrates.

     

    As well as shaved ice the café also serves coffee, highball, sake, wine, mead and more. There’s even Wi-Fi and electrical outlets.

    If you’ve been out drinking in Tokyo then refresh yourself this winter season with some shaved ice at Kakigori Lounge Akasaka.

  • Gold Leaf Keema Curry: Only 5 Available Per Day at New Curry House ‘Tariki Honganji Curry’ in Shimokitazawa

    01.July.2018 | FOOD / SPOT

    Shimokitazawa in Tokyo is known as the ‘Curry District,’ and for good reason. Not only is it home to countless curry houses, it’s also where the annual Shimokitazawa Curry Festival takes place.

     

    Tariki Honganji Curry is a new curry restaurant opening in Shimokitazawa on July 1. Their name means to prosper as a business by servicing others which is also part of their policy.

    Their menu will include a very special Gold Leaf Keema Curry which promises not only to taste delicious but look gorgeous too! Priced at ¥5,000, only five of these curries will be available each day, making it a rare sight. There’s plenty of other choices to choose from if you can’t get your hands on one of these, including the Tariki Hongaji Curry (¥1,500) as well as ordinary curry (¥800).

    They are also taking curry recipes from customers which will be served at the restaurant and change each month. Compensation will be given for recipes used.

     

    Additionally, the restaurant is recruiting for their gallery exhibition. The wall can be rented out to be used as a gallery, so if you’re interested be sure to enquire in-store.

    Head to Tariki Hongaji Curry and try to get your hands on that Gold Leaf Keema!

     

    ■Information

    Tariki Honganji Curry

    Address: 2-9-17 Shimokitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo

    Opening Hours: 12:00pm-11:00pm

    Website: https://www.tarikihonganji.jp

     

  • “Mount Fuji Curry” Arrives at Lava Cafe in Fujisan World Heritage Center

    11.May.2018 | FOOD

    The Lava Cafe, located in the north block of the Fujisan World Heritage Center in Yamanashi Prefecture, has introduced the new Mt. Fuji Curry to its menu.

     

    The blue coloured curry dish is made to look just like Mount Fuji while the pickles represent the surrounding forest at the base of the mountain Aokigahara, also known as the ‘Sea of Trees.’ This Instagrammable meal is aimed at both Japanese and foreign tourists.

     

    富士山カレー

    There have been many curry dishes on the market with rice formed in the shape of Mount Fuji, but this dish not only maintains the shape, but the colouring too. It took them over half a year to perfect the dish.

     

    The cafe will also begin serving a ‘mega size’ version of the blue curry from June 22 to bring it closer to the size of Mount Fuji. They also plan to release a spicy red version in autumn to bring to life the scene when Mount Fuji appears red when the sun’s rays shine over it. Make sure you don’t miss out on this one either.

     

    Head to the Lava Cafe to try eating this stunning curry that you can’t get anywhere else!

     

    ■Information

    Lava Cafe

    Address: Fujisan World Heritage Center North Block 2F, 6663-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture

    Opening Hours: 09:30-16:30 (Last Orders 16:00)

    No Fixed Holidays.

    TEL: 0555-72-0259

    Information: https://tabelog.com/yamanashi/A1903/A190301/19009495/

     

    Mt. Fuji Curry

    Price: ¥1,000 (Tax-Included)

    *There is also a Halal option.

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