This restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis, requiring guests to line up in front of the store before opening to confirm their dining time and order (prepayment required).Today is a Tuesday.Last time, I arrived around 10:20 AM and was 35th in line. I believe they have a reservation capacity of about 50 people per day.Today, I arrived around... More
This restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis, requiring guests to line up in front of the store before opening to confirm their dining time and order (prepayment required).Today is a Tuesday.Last time, I arrived around 10:20 AM and was 35th in line. I believe they have a reservation capacity of about 50 people per day.Today, I arrived around 10:40 AM, and there was no line in front of the restaurant.I wondered if they were already full, but as I approached, I saw a sign saying, "Reservations, please come in," and I was able to book a slot for 12:15 PM. I ordered with a spice level of 3, without any extra chicken or rice.With about an hour to spare, I wandered around Shinsaibashi-suji and returned to the restaurant in time to sit at the counter.Both the counter and tables were fully occupied, but it didn’t feel cramped. After about 5 minutes, my curry arrived in a clay pot. When I opened the lid, it was bubbling, and the aroma of spices filled the air.Inside, there were chunks of chicken, pickled tomatoes, a soft-boiled egg, and a generous amount of onions. The rice was served separately and had a color reminiscent of curry pilaf, possibly cooked with spices. On its own, the rice didn’t have much flavor.There were guides on how to eat at the counter and tables, and I followed the instructions to first savor the clear part of the curry.Since I chose spice level 3, it was quite spicy. However, it wasn’t overwhelming, and I could enjoy the flavors of the spices and the base broth. The consistency was light, and I scooped up the onion fibers as I ate. I couldn’t identify any particularly sharp spices; they seemed to be well-balanced.The chicken retained its shape but could be easily broken apart with a spoon. It was tender and well-seasoned.After eating about half, I added the rice to the clay pot and broke the soft-boiled egg. The egg mellowed the dish, creating a delightful mix that resembled a porridge or soup curry, allowing me to enjoy a change in flavor.The atmosphere inside was calm, and the staff, possibly the owner’s wife, was very attentive.The interior was dimly lit, making it hard to see the restaurant's layout upon entering.Since it was served in a clay pot, the dish remained hot until the end, making it better to savor it slowly while enjoying the evolving flavors.The spice level 3 provided a gentle sweat-inducing heat, and those who are sensitive to spice could still enjoy levels 1 or 0.If you’re unfamiliar with the reservation system, it might be a bit confusing, but arriving early makes it easier to choose your desired time and plan accordingly. Next time, I’d like to try spice level 0 and add some extra ingredients.I definitely want to visit again.I enjoyed every bite until the end. Less