During my previous visit, I couldn't try the food because it was sold out, so this time I was determined to make a comeback. I arrived at 9 AM on a Saturday and was surprised to find no one ahead of me in line, making me the first customer. Although I had to wait about two hours until opening, taking the first bite of the curry made that wait a cherished memory. The dish was not only rich but also layered with the aroma of spices, the sweetness of vegetables and fruits, and the umami of beef tongue. The presence of the beef tongue and the vibrant appearance when seasonal vegetables were added were particularly impressive. This curry ranked among my top favorites, competing for the number one spot. Despite the line, this restaurant is definitely worth saving as a "must-try lunch spot in Ogikubo."【Ordered Menu and Impressions】◆ Beef Tongue Curry JPY 3,800 + Seasonal Vegetables JPY 800 As soon as the dish arrived at the table, I was captivated by the large beef tongue peeking out from the curry and the vibrant colors of the vegetables, including broccoli and purple cauliflower. The rich brown sauce typical of European-style curry not only delivered a deep flavor upon the first bite but also revealed layers of spice aroma, subtle bitterness, and sweetness as I continued to eat. It was dense but not heavy, allowing the intricate differences in flavor to emerge as I progressed through the dish. Most notably, the beef tongue was substantial. The thick meat was coated in sauce, offering a tender texture that highlighted its umami. The seasonal vegetables included bitter melon, king oyster mushrooms, okra, mini tomatoes, and pumpkin, with a surprising addition of Shine Muscat grapes. The sweetness of the pumpkin, the slight bitterness of the bitter melon, the acidity of the tomatoes, and the refreshing sweetness of the grapes each provided a delightful contrast within the rich curry. The rice was served with cheese and raisins, and the presentation resembled the face of a dog or perhaps a lion, enhanced by the plate's design. The pickled onions served on the side and the fukujinzuke (pickled vegetables) were perfect for refreshing the palate during the meal. This dish left a lasting impression not only for its taste but also for the excitement of its presentation when it arrived at the table.◆ Ebisu Black Beer (Small Bottle) JPY 600 While waiting for the curry and during the meal, I enjoyed a bottle of Ebisu Black Beer. When poured into a glass, the dark liquid was topped with fine bubbles, offering a roasted and slightly bitter flavor. Paired with the rich sauce of the beef tongue curry, the roasted notes of the beer complemented the spices and the meat's richness perfectly. The beer was served promptly after ordering, which was a nice touch after waiting in line for so long. While the curry alone was satisfying, adding the black beer made for a delightful leisurely lunch on a day off.【Atmosphere of the Restaurant】 I arrived at 9 AM on a Saturday and was the first customer. Ten minutes later, two more people arrived, and by around 9:30, there were three, and by 9:40, six people, with about eight by 10 AM. By the time the restaurant opened at 10:50, there was a line of about 24 people. Perhaps due to the holiday season and the hot weather, the line grew more gradually than I had anticipated. This time, I was initially guided inside with a group of six, and afterward, the rest had to wait outside. Customers are brought in by groups, so not all 14 tables are filled at once. The advantage of arriving early is not just the shorter wait time but also the ease of choosing your desired curry before it sells out. The restaurant has two counter seats, four two-person tables, and one four-person table, with wooden chairs and a calm color scheme, accompanied by classic background music. After waiting for a long time, the atmosphere inside was a stark contrast to the line outside, feeling peaceful. I felt completely comfortable visiting alone.【Staff Service】 The service was consistently very polite. The master greeted me as well. After entering, I was guided through the ordering process in turn. The beer was served immediately after ordering, and the curry arrived about ten minutes later. Before the curry, small bowls of pickled onions and fukujinzuke were prepared. Before opening, the staff came outside to organize the line and confirmed the number of customers as they guided us in, which left a positive impression. I had imagined a bustling atmosphere typical of popular restaurants, but inside, there was no sense of being rushed, allowing me to savor the meal at a leisurely pace.【Restaurant Information】 Access: About a 4-minute walk from the South Exit B of Ogikubo Station on the JR Chuo Line Seating: Counter and table seats Interior: All seats are non-smoking Payment: Cash only Others: The restaurant may close once they run out of curry, so there’s a possibility that your desired dish may not be available later in the day. During my previous visit, they had already sold out and closed for the day. If they plan to open that day, a sign saying "Please wait a moment, we are preparing" is displayed at the entrance, and when they run out, it says, "We have closed for the day due to sold-out items." Before opening, the lights and cooking aromas and sounds inside serve as indicators of their readiness. Hours and days of operation may change, and they may close when sold out, so it’s advisable to check for the latest information before visiting from afar.【How to Line Up】: Start under the restaurant's eaves, and if the line extends to the entrance of the neighboring apartment, it will stretch across the road to the side of Ogikubo High School. The eaves on the restaurant side provide shade in the morning, but the opposite side of the road is exposed to sunlight, so during summer, it’s wise to bring an umbrella, hat, or drink for sun protection.