At Spices Curry Synergy Nakano store, located a 2-minute walk from Nakano Station North Exit in Tokyo, they offer a special curry dish called "Aigake Curry" for 1200 yen. This Osaka-based spice curry restaurant just opened 5 days ago. They previously operated a temporary store in Ebisu at the beginning of the year, but this is their first permanent store in Tokyo. You can find it on the second floor of a building right after turning right from the Cozy Corner in Nakano Sun Mall shopping street. When I arrived before 1 pm, I was greeted by two male staff members handing out flyers outside. Although there is a sign in front of the building, the prices are not displayed, which may make it intimidating for new customers to enter. Inside, there were 4 other customers and 3 female staff members. Payment is done through cashless transactions upon entering. The flyer mentioned an opening campaign for the first 3 days, where customers can receive a complimentary spice-infused egg. The curry was served within 5 minutes of being seated, with options of pork and chicken curry. The saffron rice paired well with the mildly flavored minced pork curry, while the chicken curry with tender wings had a slight kick to it, but still enjoyable for those who can handle some spice. I usually don't like spice curry, but this one was exceptional. It was a satisfying meal, thank you!

A famous spice curry restaurant from Osaka has landed in Nakano! The main branch has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand award at its hundredth store, which is quite surprising! When it comes to spice curry, Osaka is the place to go. I was thrilled to hear that the restaurant has opened in Nakano, especially since I missed out on trying it when I visited Osaka last month (it's quite challenging to visit such places with kids). The entrance to the restaurant is located above Cozy Corner in Sun Mall, but the entrance is actually outside the shopping street. The interior of the restaurant is clean and new. Upon entering, you need to place your order and pay immediately, so it's good to have an idea of the menu before climbing the stairs (although I still got a bit confused). The main curry options are chicken, pork, and a limited edition curry. During my visit, the limited edition curry was a green curry with whitebait. They mentioned that there were only 10 servings available, but I saw on Instagram that there were 20 servings (perhaps it varies by day). In any case, the curry is limited to 50 servings, so it's all kind of limited in a way. I decided to try both the limited edition and the pork curry, along with the chicken curry. The limited edition curry costs an additional 100 yen. In total, it was 2300 yen (pork curry 1300 yen, chicken curry 1000 yen), which I paid using PayPay. The restaurant primarily accepts cashless payments. I also used a soft drink voucher to enjoy oolong tea and iced coffee (other options included cola). The seating area is not very large, with a long and narrow interior. There is a counter in the front and tables in the back. I sat side by side at the counter. There are self-serve water dispensers on the tables. The food was served promptly, within 3 minutes of ordering. It took less than 10 minutes from entering the restaurant to getting the food. The menu is limited, and the curry is served in a simple manner, so the quick service is appreciated. I tried the dishes - the pork curry had minced pork and was not too spicy, the chicken curry had two tender chicken wings in a runny curry, and the limited edition curry was more like a white curry with whitebait. The spiciness of all the curries was mild and easy to eat, even for those who don't like spicy food. I personally enjoyed the chicken curry the most. The curry is gluten-free and made with Chinese medicinal herbs, but it wasn't overpowering. I didn't feel a strong urge to come back for more, but I would still recommend it as a tasty meal. The spice curry scene in Tokyo is growing, and perhaps that has raised my expectations too high. Maybe the experience is different at the main branch. Overall, it's a delicious curry worth trying!

"Spices Curry Synergy Nakano branch opened in Nakano in August this year. It is the first actual store in Tokyo for the Osaka curry restaurant that has been listed in the Michelin Bib Gourmand and the top 100 restaurants on Tabelog. The location is on the 2nd floor of "Cozy Corner," just a few minutes' walk from Nakano Station North Exit in an arcade street. Although there is a sign in the arcade street, the entrance is just inside a right-hand alley. The main menu includes: "Aigake Curry (2 types)" for 1200 yen, "Chicken Curry" for 1000 yen, "Pork Curry" for 1000 yen, and "Aigake Special (2 types of curry + egg & keema)" for 1600 yen. Orders are taken orally at the entrance, and it is a cashless prepayment system. The interior has a simple counter with 4 seats and 2 tables for 4 people. The restaurant is run by 2 female staff members, and the curry is served promptly. The "Aigake Curry (2 types)" for 1200 yen features two types of curry on either side of the rice, a popular style. The vegetables in the middle of the rice are colorful. The chicken curry is not very spicy and has a fairly standard taste. The bone-in chicken is easy to shred with a spoon. The pork curry is hot and quite spicy, with strong spices like coriander and mustard seeds. In 2020, "Synergy" participated in an event at Tobu Ikebukuro Department Store, where we tried the "Shirasu Green Curry and Chicken Vegetable Keema Curry Aigake." In comparison, the chicken & pork at the Nakano branch are somewhat simpler. The keema is a saba keema made with ghost peppers, so the special may have had a more special feel."

A spice curry restaurant from Osaka has opened in Nakano. The interior is a bit small, and you pay first before being seated. Despite the small space, there are table seats available so it's suitable for couples or groups of friends. I ordered the "Aigake Curry" (1200 yen), which is a curry with both chicken and pork. The spice curry served was now considered standard, with just the right amount of spiciness and delicious. The chicken was tender and flavorful, while the pork had a different kind of tastiness. I couldn't help but wonder how it would have been if they offered a completely different type of curry. I haven't tried the main branch, but with the increasing number of spice curry restaurants in Tokyo, there are many delicious options around Nakano and Koenji. I found this one to be somewhat average. Looking forward to new menu items in the future.

The former Yamu residence, the pioneer of Osaka Spice Curry in Tokyo, opened a branch in Shimokitazawa, the hub of Tokyo culture, six years ago. Their unique curry, combining surprising ingredients and specially blended spices, brought astonishment and delight to Tokyoites, leading to the growth of Osaka Spice Curry restaurants in the city. Taking advantage of the synergy of being listed in the Michelin Guide Osaka 2021, 2022, and 2023, Spice Curry Synergy opened a branch in Nakano in August 2023. The founder, Ms. Gen Ayu, with an unconventional background in insurance sales, computer classes, and blizzard flower instruction, offers popular Osaka Spice Curry with a concept of "food is medicine" at this first Tokyo branch in Nakano Sun Mall shopping street. The menu includes Chicken Curry for 1000 yen, Pork Curry for 1000 yen, Combo Curry (two types) for 1200 yen, and Special Combo (two types, Jolokia Keema, and Spicy Egg) for 1600 yen. I ordered the Special Combo and an iced coffee (200 yen). The curry, with flavorsome Chicken and Ginger Pork, had a mild spiciness and rich spice aroma. You can adjust the heat with the world's spiciest Jolokia chili in the Mackerel Keema. The ambiance was a bit chaotic, perhaps due to the recent opening. Overall, it was a delightful meal! ｡⁠◕⁠‿⁠◕⁠｡

Overall rating criteria: The average (normal) rating is 3.0 points, with evaluations in increments of 0.5 points. The total points are calculated by multiplying food/taste by 4, service by 2, atmosphere by 2, and cost performance by 2, then dividing the sum by 10. Alcohol/drinks are not included in the evaluation. === Not mentioned, but the food was delicious.

In Osaka, a major movement has been sparked by "Spice Curry" restaurants, and one of the central establishments, "Synergy," has made a full-fledged entry into Tokyo!! Located on the 2nd floor of "Cozy Corner" at the north exit of Nakano Station, Sun Road, in the space once occupied by "Milan" from the Innepa store. "Spices Curry Synergy Nakano Store" opened on August 18, 2023. Chef Aya Hara, a Chinese medicine coordinator and medicinal cuisine adjuster, has created a curry that combines the principles of food and medicine, is gluten-free, yet packs a punch with its spiced flavor, which is the essence of "Synergy." The synergy effect of spices and ingredients has garnered praise, and the restaurant has received the Bib Gourmand award in the Michelin Guide for three consecutive years since 2021. "Synergy" is known for its distinctive artistic touch, particularly the personal touch of the chef, which sets it apart in the world of Osaka's spice curry. The decision to expand to Tokyo was driven by a certain "wish" of Chef Hara. Having managed a curry restaurant while raising children herself, now that her children have grown up, she wants to support socially disadvantaged individuals and single mothers. She hopes to create an environment that is easy to work in, where food and beverage establishments can be operated in a short amount of time, and decided to expand to Tokyo with this in mind. The Tokyo branch is managed by WEB consulting company "Mediale," headquartered in Ebisu. Prior to the opening of the Nakano store, they began operating on a temporary basis in Ebisu. The interior of the restaurant is fresh and clean. Since it was just after the opening, the operation was meticulous, with orders being confirmed carefully. ★Aigake Special (Two types of curry, egg & keema) ¥1600 In addition to chicken curry and pork ginger curry, this dish includes mackerel keema, spiced egg, and side dishes all on one plate. While the presentation may differ from the artistic touch of Chef Hara, the quality of the curry is unmistakable, evident from the aroma of the spices. Let's try it right away. The taste is amazing. The curry slides smoothly into your mouth, while the spices gradually open up your pores. You can't help but nod in agreement, feeling that it's really hitting the spot. The umami of the mackerel keema and the sweetness of the spiced egg are delightful accents, creating a well-balanced flavor that is truly "Synergy." This will undoubtedly become a popular restaurant in Tokyo. Not only will more people refresh their minds and bodies by eating this curry, but also the experience and know-how of Chef Hara will be shared with the staff in Tokyo, creating a more comfortable working environment for many. The synergy effect of spices and ingredients. The synergy effect between Osaka and Tokyo. The synergy effect of deliciousness and ease of work. The renowned restaurant "Synergy" has now taken on a new meaning in its name, and I truly felt it. ● "Curry Cell" Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CurryCell ● Twitter "Curry Cell": @hm_currycell

・Aigake Special ¥1,600 tax included * Chicken and Pork A curry restaurant that opened about a 5-minute walk from JR Chuo Line Nakano Station. Some other reviewers have mentioned it as one of Osaka's top curry shops. I have never tried spice curry in Osaka, so I can't really say, but when I asked people who eat curry regularly in Osaka, they said that Tokyo's spice curry and Osaka's spice curry are quite different, and it's hard to say if you'll like it or not. Plus, it's uncertain if the Osaka flavor has been accurately recreated. Anyway, you won't know if it's delicious until you try it, so I decided to visit. During lunchtime on a weekday, there was only one customer ahead of me. It seems like the restaurant isn't very well-known yet, so it's not crowded. Will I have to wait in line in the future? For now, I'm lucky. As soon as I entered, I noticed it was a pay-before-ordering system. They seemed to have both pork and chicken options, but I couldn't decide, so I asked for a mix. I wonder what kind of curry it will be. I dug in right away. [Aigake Special] The curry is served with yellow turmeric rice in the middle, with curry on both sides. The rice is made from Japanese rice and cooked firm with a sweet taste. There's a smooth mild chicken curry and a watery but spicy minced meat curry. Both have a soup-like texture and a subtle umami taste. Overall, it seems like the saltiness is kept in check, giving off a Kansai-style vibe. When it comes to spices, in Tokyo, spice curry often means using a wide variety of Indian curry-like spices generously, with a strong aroma of whole spices, but this curry seems to have just the right amount of spices in the right places. The three housewives who were managing the place were very friendly, and the interior was clean and cute, so I felt that the curry was gentle and not too sharp. By the way, the side dish, similar to sea chicken, is quite spicy, and there's a large boiled egg that adds a substantial touch, so it's not just a quiet meal. Nakano has many unique restaurants, so it's quite challenging to stand out, but I think they should promote well and get more people to try it. Thank you for the meal.

"Synergy," a restaurant that has been awarded the "Michelin Bib Gourmand Osaka" continuously since 2021, has expanded to Tokyo. Following a pilot opening in Ebisu, they have now opened their official store. The staff, who have inherited the passion of the female owner who used to run the restaurant in Kitashinchi, are operating the new location. Excitement builds as we wonder if we will encounter the same emotions we felt in Kitashinchi. The curry menu includes Chicken Curry, Pork Curry, and a combination topping option called "Aigake" (similar to the "Aigake" in Kitashinchi). The aroma of spices rising from the plates tantalizes the appetite. Both options have a smooth consistency with mild spiciness. However, the richness of spices is evident, with thoughtful touches like the blend of spices and the addition of ginger. The tender chicken wings that fall off the bone and the coarsely minced pork infused with broth and spices provide a blissful deliciousness. It is said that the owner of this Tokyo branch is acquainted with the owner of the Kitashinchi branch, which is how they came to be entrusted with opening this new location. It is a joy to see more places in Tokyo where you can enjoy Osaka Spice Curry. Thank you for the meal.

I had the Aigake Special Curry. It includes two types of curry: chicken curry and pork curry, with spiced eggs and Jolokia Keema added. The chicken curry has chicken wings in it, while the pork curry has minced meat. The Jolokia Keema is a curry with low moisture mackerel and is extremely spicy. It's delicious on its own, but also tastes great when combined with the two curries. When I went on the third day of opening, they were closed, so I think they might be closed on Sundays. It's a prepayment system, so it would be convenient to have the menu posted outside in advance.

The "Milan Nakano" curry restaurant, which had been in business in Nakano for over 20 years, has closed down. In its place, a spice curry restaurant from Osaka has opened. The main branch of this restaurant has been selected as one of the top 100 restaurants, so I decided to give it a try. You need to order and pay in advance at the entrance, so it's better to be prepared before going. I ordered the chicken curry and pork curry combination (tax included 1,200 yen), a beer (tax included 500 yen), and added a spicy egg topping (usually tax included 200 yen, but it was a service for the opening). The chicken curry was lightly spicy with a chicken wing included. The pork curry was a keema curry with a lot of minced meat, giving it a slightly Japanese flavor with hints of ginger and miso. It was delicious, but not particularly outstanding in my opinion. However, there were other customers who seemed very excited about the restaurant. For example, there was a woman who brought her baby in a stroller up the steep spiral staircase to the second floor where the restaurant is located. Additionally, I requested the restaurant to be registered on Tabelog (a restaurant review website) since they didn't have a landline phone. When the registration was completed, I wanted to be the first to post a review, but someone had already beaten me to it. It made me realize the strong passion of curry enthusiasts, even more so than anime fans.

On August 18, 2023, the spice curry restaurant "Spices Curry Synergy" in Kita-Shinchi, Osaka, opened its first branch in Nakano, Tokyo. Synergy is known as a popular spice curry restaurant where dishes often sell out, and it has received the Michelin Guide Kyoto-Osaka's Bib Gourmand award for three consecutive years since 2021. In February 2023, Synergy opened a temporary pop-up store in Ebisu, Tokyo, but the Nakano branch is its first permanent location in the capital. Located on the second floor of Ginza Cozy Corner on the right side as you walk through Nakano Sun Mall shopping street from JR Nakano Station North Exit. When you enter, you need to place your order and pay immediately, and note that only cashless payments are accepted. The "Ai-gake Curry" set (2 types) with spice egg is priced at 1200 yen, featuring turmeric rice sandwiched between tender chicken curry and pork ginger curry. During the first three days of opening, the spice egg was offered for free, and it complemented the dishes well. The chicken curry had tender chicken wings that easily fell apart, with a soup-like and silky texture. The pork ginger curry had a gentle flavor with a hint of refreshing ginger in a Japanese-style dashi broth. Both dishes were curated by the owner, Saya Hara, who holds qualifications as a Chinese medicine coordinator and a medicinal cuisine adjuster, offering gentle and purifying flavors. Currently, only chicken and pork curry are available, but it is expected that the menu will expand as the store becomes more established. The future developments of the restaurant are definitely worth keeping an eye on.

I visited on the opening day around 12 o'clock. [Aigake Curry] ★ Chicken Curry ★ Pork Curry + Spiced Egg (Special service for the opening) Staff members from Osaka also came to support, and it was very lively. I was worried if it would be okay with kids, but we were warmly welcomed, and I was grateful. I have an attachment to Nakano as I have lived there for a long time, so I was very happy. This location used to have a curry restaurant called Innepa, so it was just right. I look forward to more menu options in the future.

Aigake Curry (Pork Curry & Chicken Curry) ¥1200