Yokohama's beloved curry shop Marumasara more than lives up to its stellar reputation, serving some of the best spice curry we've ever eaten. Curry plates are artfully presented, and the spacious dining area looks like a cross between a chic cafe and someone's atelier. A recording of chirping cicadas playing in the background adds to the charming atmosphere. The calligraphic menu can be.... [Continue reading]

San Francisco-based Verve Coffee Roasters is the gourmet coffee destination in Yebisu Garden Place. You can choose from numerous single-origin pour-over coffees, a few espresso options, and cold brew and nitro brew when available. There are special seasonal blends, and they always have a "quick cup" option - convenient when you're in a hurry. Verve is a snack destination as well,.... [Continue reading]

The smash burgers are good and meaty here, topped with a tangy cheese sauce and served with crunchy waffle fries and optional jalapenos. The menu also features a few different burritos (Baja fish, "smash beef", pulled pork corn), quesadillas, and Cobb and Caesar salads. Shakes come in vanilla, banana, berry, Nutella and peanut-butter flavors. The atmosphere is laid back, and the shop.... [Continue reading]

With its innovative juxtapositions of contrasting flavors and spices borrowed from different culinary cultures, Osaka-style "spice curry" pushes the boundaries of Japanese curry cuisine. Kyu Yamu Tetsudo embraces this tradition - their creative recipes make a strong impression, especially when experienced in multi-curry plates. They prepare four curries on any given day, and you can.... [Continue reading]

Filled with colorful mismatched sofas and comfortable chairs, this all-day cafe is a fun place to relax over a cup of coffee, a slice of pie or a burger. The smash burgers here are meaty and coarsely textured, served with sauteed onions, shoestring fries and optional toppings (including macaroni and cheese). Burritos and rice plates round out the menu. Hand-drip coffee is from the.... [Continue reading]

Run by the highly regarded Ise Kadoya brewery in Mie Prefecture, this Marunouchi izakaya serves regional cuisine and craft sake from Mie as well as their own craft beers. Ten varieties of Ise Kadoya beer are available on tap. As with any good izakaya, the the food menu is designed to accompany drinks, and the grilled meats and fish here go especially well with both beer and sake. One.... [Continue reading]