Out of all the restaurants on my Tokyo bucket list, this was the shop I’ve been wanting to visit the most. Tucked away along the Kanda River in Takadanobaba lies 1/f Yuragi, a small curry specialty shop known for its signature creamy Shiro (White) Curry – combining the classic Japanese spice blend with the richness and sweetness of a white sauce-inspired base.
So what exactly does their White Curry taste like? Is it worthy of its hidden gem status? And is it worth the visit? Let’s get to it. How Good is 1/f Yuragi Actually?
–Ordering System–
–Katsu Shiro Kare–
–Sauces–
–Verdict–
–Getting There–
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📋 Ordering System 📋
Orders are placed via their ticketing machine – though this one works a bit differently than most others out there.
Unlike other machines where you insert your cash before selecting an item, this one literally operates as a “Ticketing Machine.” Simply press the button of the dish you want, grab your printed ticket, and pay at the table.
And yes, the entire menu is in Japanese. Make sure to have a translator app ready, or if you’re feeling bold, hit a random button and let luck decide your meal
Pro Tip: If you don’t have access to a translator, the menu follows a basic structure: White Curry for the top three rows, standard curry on the middle three, and extra toppings on the bottom.
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🍛 Katsu Shiro Kare (¥1,050) 🍛
It’s quite the striking appearance. Instead of the usual dark-brown Japanese curry roux, Yuragi’s Shiro (White) Curry leans towards a beige-yellow color from the combination of cream and spices.
While Yuragi keeps its exact spice blend a secret, the overall flavor profile remains quite similar to the classic Japanese curry – though to keep the color relatively light, there’s probably a bit less turmeric than usual. It’s warm and aromatic (much more than the color implies), with a slight pepper-forward kick at the end for heat.
Beyond the spices, what truly defines Yuragi is their white sauce base of cream and coconut milk, adding a unique richness and sweetness that rounds out the sharper spice notes – making it surprisingly approachable.
In addition to the cream base, the curry comes loaded with a very generous amount of minced pork. While the actual flavor is fairly light, the meaty undertone gives the dish a welcome savory foundation to build upon – plus some textural contrast to the smoother curry.
With this much pork, there’s already enough protein in the dish to easily skip any add-on toppings. But if you’re feeling a little extra, you can top it with either cheese, korokke, sausages, or the classic tonkatsu.
The tonkatsu is a bit simpler, but also executed very well. Lightly seasoned, coated with fresh breadcrumbs and fried until there’s just a slight shade of pink for some extra juiciness, the added crunch and brighter pork flavors provide a welcome contrast to the heavier, richer curry.
At ¥1,050, the portion size is very generous! Though with how rich it is, make sure you’ve come prepared for a hearty, filling meal.
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🧂 Sauces 🧂
While the curry is well balanced as is, you’ll find the usual selection of sauces and condiments at the table: tonkatsu sauce, chili powder for some extra kick, and Fukujinzuke pickles to reset the palate against the cream.
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⭐VERDICT⭐
So how good is 1/f Yuragi actually? Straight up, it’s fantastic! Their signature Shiro Curry has this unique balance of warmth from the spices and richness from the cream, making it an incredibly satisfying meal that left me with a desire for more. The katsu topping was also very well done, and I’ll be trying out their other toppings the next time I stop by.
An incredibly hearty meal, and easily one of my favorites from this trip! So if you’re looking for a hidden gem with a unique twist on the classic Japanese curry, or just want a deeply comforting meal, 1/f Yuragi is the place to visit!
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🚗 GETTING THERE 🚗
1/f Yuragi is located around Takadanobaba Station, not too far from Ikebukuro or Shinjuku
Takadanobaba Station (JR & Shinjuku Lines) – Waseda Exit and a 5-minute walk.
Takadanobaba Station (Tozai Line) – Exit 4 and a 4-minute walk.
1/f Yuragi
🌏 Location 🌏
1F Y.seedx Bldg., 3-10-22 Takada, Toshima City, Tokyo 171-0033, Japan
🗺 Map 🗺
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XJQjVWs5b8aRTsp38
⏰ Opening Hours ⏰
11 A.M. to 6 P.M. (Monday – Friday)
11 A.M. to 3 P.M. (Saturdays)
Closed on Sundays