When it comes to ordering curry, I’m usually cautious. There’s always the possibility that it might be too sweet, too mild, or come with ingredients I didn’t ask for—carrots, peas, or potato. And then there’s the fruity aspect to consider. No matter how much I analyze the color, texture, and smell, there’s still an element of risk with every new curry dish. But when I think of curry done right, there’s one place that stands out: Coco Ichibanya, “The House of Japanese Curry.”

What I love about Coco Ichibanya is its straightforward approach to curry. There’s no overcomplication, just one rich, perfect curry sauce that doesn’t mess around. Whether you’re looking for something mild or a fiery heat that comes with warnings like “not for the faint-hearted,” Coco Ichibanya offers spice levels that cater to every preference. For me, it’s the ideal curry experience. While the dish might not be the most glamorous in appearance, it’s comfort food at its finest—a guilty pleasure I find myself craving constantly. My first encounter with Coco Ichibanya was at one of Bangkok’s many branches, where the irresistible aroma of curry lured me in. It’s no wonder their tagline is “Good Smell. Good Curry.” Although the restaurant serves just one curry sauce, the add-ons are what make each visit feel fresh. Creamed mushroom omelette curry, or curry with melted cheese? These are experiences you just have to try.

The Global Curry Chain

Over time, Coco Ichibanya has become our go-to spot for curry, thanks to the consistency of its recipe across multiple countries. We’ve now experienced it in Thailand, Japan, and Taiwan. In Taipei, for instance, we tried the Ximending branch, located in one of the city’s most vibrant areas, often referred to as the Harajuku of Taipei. Despite the popularity of the area with millennials, there weren’t many food enthusiasts in sight. This, however, is part of the charm of Coco Ichibanya. It’s not pretentious, and it’s perfect as fast food. The Japanese have mastered the art of simplicity in food preparation. It’s all about having a systematic process—rice, topping, curry—serve. And they do it exceptionally well, with an almost robotic precision that stems from continuous improvement, known as kaizen. This is why Coco Ichibanya has grown into the largest curry chain in the world, with over 1,200 locations, mostly across Asia.

The Japanese Experience

While Coco Ichibanya is beloved worldwide, the essence of the restaurant is undoubtedly better experienced in Japan. The franchises outside Japan, though good, don’t quite capture the unique atmosphere of the local restaurants. In Japan, Coco Ichibanya is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The vibe is less corporate and more soulful, with a local, almost familial touch that doesn’t translate easily across borders. Japan is renowned for its welcoming food culture, where solo diners are just as valued as groups. Whether it’s ramen bars, conveyor belt sushi, or beef bowl stalls, the dining experiences in Japan are designed to be friendly and casual, and Coco Ichibanya is no exception.

In Japan, the restaurant layout is more relaxed, with a curry bar along the kitchen and seating for groups of friends. The restaurant feels less polished, more cluttered, and that’s part of its charm. It exudes a homely atmosphere, but one that’s uniquely Japanese. Bookshelves filled with manga comics line the entrance, and soulful jazz music plays softly in the background. Leaving the restaurant, I was handed a token, and I walked away with a Dragon Ball Z lapel pin as a prize. These quirky, unexpected details make dining at Coco Ichibanya in Japan special—there’s just something about it that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

Conclusion

Coco Ichibanya is more than just a curry chain; it’s an experience that stands out in a world full of complex, fusion-style curries. Its simplicity, consistency, and dedication to creating the perfect curry make it a favorite, whether you’re in Thailand, Japan, or Taiwan. But if you want the full, authentic experience, Japan remains the place where Coco Ichibanya shines the brightest, thanks to its local charm and the unique quirks that make dining there feel special.