Curry no Mise Maboroshi: Generous Japanese Spice Curry

Curry no Mise Maboroshi (カレーの店 マボロシ) is a cult-favourite curry shop in Sagamihara, a place so popular that diners line up before it opens just to get a ticket for a meal later that day. The draw is its meat-forward spice curry, defined by enormous, tender chunks of pork or chicken—a style known in Japan as ‘goro-goro’—simmered in a deeply aromatic and complex sauce. The experience is rounded out by a unique ritual: a fresh green chili served on the side, which you can crush into your curry to dial up the heat, and a complimentary iced masala chai to finish.

Reviewers consistently praise the layered spice blend and profound umami of the curry base. The Pork Curry is the star, celebrated for its generous portion of rich, flavourful meat. The Chicken Curry is also popular, though a few diners note it can occasionally be slightly less intense than the pork. Instead of standard pickles, the curry is served with a distinctive ‘achar’ of corn, tomato, and raisins. For extra flavour, many recommend adding a topping like the mutton and eggplant keema.

Criticisms are minor and infrequent. The heat of the complimentary green chilies can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to add them sparingly. A couple of reviewers have mentioned the small interior can feel cluttered, but most find the staff attentive and the quality unwavering over many years.

A meal is excellent value, typically costing between ¥1,000 and ¥1,999. Reviewers recently paid around ¥1,500 for the Pork Curry and between ¥1,100 and ¥1,400 for the Chicken Curry. A keema topping costs an additional ¥350–¥500. For the portion size and flavour intensity, most consider it a bargain.

• Reservations: Bookings are not accepted. The shop uses a ticket system (整理券, seiriken): arrive early (distribution often starts around 9:30 AM) to get a ticket for an assigned time slot later in the day. The shop frequently sells out by late morning, so check its official X (Twitter) account for updates before you go.
• Getting There: The restaurant is an 18-minute walk from the south exit of Sagamihara Station (JR Yokohama Line). Alternatively, take a bus to the Shiyakusho-mae stop, from which it's a 4-minute walk.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
• Seating: The small dining room has 10 seats, including a two-seat counter and several tables.
• Parking: There is no dedicated parking, but paid public parking is available nearby.
• Takeout: Takeout is available and can be ordered by phone or via X (Twitter).