Tabelog ratingTucked down a small alley in Sumida, Spice Cafe (スパイスカフェ) offers a unique dining experience inside a renovated traditional house, or kominka, that many guests describe as feeling like a scene from a Ghibli film. The focus here is on a chef-led approach to spices, creating dishes that are deeply layered and aromatic rather than simply hot.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the daily curries, with the lamb keema and prawn curry being frequent standouts. The colourful plate of four vegetable side dishes and the carefully prepared seasonal biryanis also receive high marks. Lunch is considered particularly good value, with recent reviewers paying around ¥1,600 for a set of two curries, sides, a dessert like mango mousse, and a drink. Dinner is a more elaborate affair, with multi-course tasting menus costing between ¥6,600 and ¥7,200.
A few points to note: the entrance can be easy to miss, and its popularity means you may face long queues at lunchtime if you don't book. While most love the balanced flavours, those seeking fiery, aggressive heat may find the spicing too subtle. The charmingly rustic exterior might look neglected to some, and dinner is a significant step up in price from the casual lunch.
- Booking: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for the course-only dinner. For lunch, booking is advised to avoid queues, though walk-ins are possible.
- Getting There: The cafe is a 15-minute walk from Oshiage Station on the Hanzomon and Toei Asakusa lines.
- Payment: Be aware that lunch is cash only. Dinner service accepts credit cards (Visa, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners), electronic money, and QR code payments.
- Language: English menus are often available, and some staff may speak English.
- Seating: There are 20 seats, including tables and a sofa area. No private rooms are available.
- Smoking & Parking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking. No parking is available.
