Wakakusa Curry Honpo: Modern Japanese Curry

Wakakusa Curry Honpo has earned a strong following for its modern take on Japanese curry, served in a bustling shop inside Nara's Mochiidono Center Street shopping arcade. Its main draw is the signature Wakakusa Curry (若草カレー本舗), a vibrant green sauce made from spinach and tomato without any flour, giving it a distinctively fresh and spicy flavour. The other key feature is the 'aigake' system, which allows diners to build a custom plate by combining two, three, or even four different curries from the day's menu.

Guests consistently praise the signature green curry, alongside the rich chicken and lamb curries. The menu is also highly regarded for its genuine commitment to vegetarian and vegan diners, with dedicated sesame and spinach options that are frequently highlighted in reviews. Many visitors appreciate the generous portions, fast service, and efficient QR code ordering system with an English menu, all of which contribute to what is widely described as excellent value for money. Lunch is typically under ¥1,000, while dinner is around ¥1,000–¥1,999. Reviewers recently paid about ¥800 for the Wakakusa Curry and around ¥1,200 for a two-curry 'aigake' plate.

While most feedback is positive, some find a few of the milder brown curries to be less memorable or a bit thin. The self-service QR ordering can feel impersonal to some, and the shop's popularity means you should expect queues, especially during lunch hours and peak tourist season.

• Access: The restaurant is in the Mochiidono Center Street arcade, a short walk from Kintetsu Nara Station (Exit 2).
• Reservations: Walk-in only; reservations are not accepted. Be prepared to queue at peak times.
• Payment: Credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, Amex, Diners), transportation IC cards (like Suica), and various QR code payment apps are all accepted.
• Dietary Options: The menu has strong vegetarian and vegan options, gluten-free choices, and clear allergen information.
• Seating: There are 26 seats, with a mix of counter and table seating. Some seats have power outlets.
• Children: Children are welcome. However, one past review noted an issue with a baby stroller, so given the compact space, it may be best to check with staff before entering with one.
• Parking: No dedicated parking is available, but customers spending ¥3,000 or more receive a one-hour voucher for the nearby Mochiidono Center Street Parking Lot.