🟣 Tokyo-Do-Must — Walk Tokyo’s Curry District: Kanda’s Many Styles in One Neighborhood
Kanda concentrates Tokyo’s curry history in a few walkable blocks—European-style, spice-forward, cutlet curry, and more. Start with century-old Kyoeido and keep exploring; the point is to return and learn the city through curry. 🍛
Last updated: 2025-11-09
Introduction
If you want to understand Japanese curry quickly, base yourself in Kanda. Here, long-running institutions stand next to newer spice shops, letting you taste how Tokyo shaped curry over 100+ years. Kyoeido’s famous “Sumatra curry” is a great first stop: a dark, gently bitter roux with layered spices, served separately from rice—the style that defined an era of Tokyo curry.
What to Try
Sumatra Curry at Kyoeido (Beef/Pork/Chicken)
A smooth, near-black roux with a hint of roasted flour depth—spoon some over rice, then adjust bite by bite. Notice how the bitterness, sweetness, and spice settle into balance rather than heat for heat’s sake.
Second Stop, Different Style
Kanda’s value is contrast. After Kyoeido’s classic roux, try a spice-centric shop or a cutlet curry to feel how “Tokyo curry” diverges within just a few minutes’ walk.
How to Order
Order verbally after being seated; choose your protein (beef/pork/chicken). Rice and curry are typically served separately—ladle the roux over in small pours so the balance stays vivid. If you’re unsure, say: “Beef Sumatra curry, please.” Payment is usually at the register when you leave.
Tokyo or Trip?
🟣 Tokyo-Do-Must — Learn Japan’s curry story by walking Kanda.
Curry is nationwide, but Kanda’s density and diversity are uniquely Tokyo. In one stroll you can map the spectrum—from historic European-style roux to modern spice blends—making this the best place to grasp how Japan made curry its own. Plan to come back more than once; that’s where Kanda shines.
Explore Nearby
- Katsu Curry in Tokyo 🍛
- Spice Curry at Keraku (Meguro) 🍛
- Maguro Cutlet Curry (Tsukiji) 🐟
- Tokyo Shoyu Ramen 🍜
- Tsukiji Breakfast (Chashu-Egg) 🍳