hakozakiso-so

A simple, minimal place with soothing music and that lovely Japanese curry smell.

The homemade ginger tea was especially welcome on a cold day, and I'd happily have it again. I also loved the butter chicken curry, with just the right level of spice for someone like me who doesn't enjoy hot food. The staff were kind and attentive without hovering. My husband and I had been wanting to visit this restaurant ever since I saw it on Instagram, and finally getting some time alone together here was a great choice. Looking forward to trying the new and limited-time menu items, and coming back together again. Thanks for the meal!

The homemade ginger ale was delicious, which is why I'm giving it one star. Everything else about the visit was bad. The music was loud enough to give me a headache, and the staff kept talking in the back instead of responding when I called. I came in from the cold, but they didn't turn on the heat until halfway through my meal. I left before the room warmed up, wearing my jacket the whole time. The space was awful, and the curry was awful too, especially for the price. I hadn't been back in five years, and though the menu mentioned Kashmiri curry, it seems they don't serve it anymore. I ordered the A curry and drink set, with miso keema and green curry. Even after asking for less rice, there was nowhere near enough curry, and the rice was soft. The green curry was bland, while the miso keema tasted patchy and was salty in places. It just wasn't good, and there was no spice at all. I won't be back.

The Christmas touches made it feel like a space I really liked, with lots of Christmas books and a message card exchange. The curry was so good I wanted to eat it again right away. The drinks, including the homemade ginger ale, had grown-up flavors and were delicious, and the coffee shop's drink served alongside was great too. The desserts looked good as well, so I'd like to try one next time.