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Case No.: 2025-CURRY-003
Filed by: MLR, Professional Food Systems Investigator
Date: October 29, 2025
Re: Field Investigation into Garigari (Yaesu Underground Branch) – Analysis of Japanese-Style Indian Curry System and the Curry Quartet’s Third Style
Executive Summary: The Curry Quartet Evolves
The competitive landscape of Tokyo Station’s underground Curry Quartet has fundamentally shifted. Ginza Swiss, a previous occupant of this concentrated curry ecosystem, has been replaced by a new contender: Garigari.
As I documented in my investigations of Gavial’s European-style curry and Okushiba Shoten’s Hokkaido soup curry, the Curry Quartet represents Tokyo’s most concentrated curry expertise—four specialized shops competing within a single underground food court. Garigari’s arrival completes a strategic triangle: where Gavial offers roux-based European sophistication and Okushiba provides broth-based Hokkaido freshness, Garigari now introduces the third pillar—Japanese-style Indian curry.
The Claimant respectfully submits that Garigari delivers a compelling and delicious experience, particularly through its signature “Akiba Mori” platter system, which allows simultaneous analysis of two distinct curry styles. While minor friction points exist—a Japanese-only QR ordering system, some topping synergy questions—the overall quality and unique dual-curry approach make Garigari an essential addition to any serious Tokyo Station curry investigation.
This is not merely a new restaurant; this is the completion of the Curry Quartet’s stylistic spectrum.
Investigation Method: Peak Hour Infiltration
This investigation was conducted during the peak lunch hour (approximately 12:00-13:00) to assess the system under maximum operational load.
Queue Assessment: Despite being newly opened, Garigari had already established significant popularity, attracting a longer queue than its Curry Quartet neighbors. Wait time from queue entry to seating: approximately 10 minutes.
Seating Assignment: Table seating was provided (as opposed to the counter seating common at neighboring establishments).
Strategic Selection: For this initial investigation, I selected Garigari’s most popular offering—the “Akiba Mori Curry 1” set with drink and additional Chicken Tatsuta topping—to establish baseline quality and system understanding.
Exhibit A: The Curry Quartet Ecosystem – Context and Positioning
Before analyzing Garigari itself, context is essential. Tokyo Station’s Yaesu underground Curry Quartet now presents three distinct curry philosophies:
The Three Styles
1. European-Style Curry (Gavial)
- Foundation: Roux-based, deeply layered flavors
- Character: Rich, complex, sophisticated
- Target: Those seeking classic Japanese curry refinement
- Signature: Potato-centric presentations
2. Hokkaido Soup Curry (Okushiba Shoten)
- Foundation: Broth-based, vegetable-forward
- Character: Light, clear, fresh
- Target: Those wanting lighter curry with ingredient clarity
- Signature: Shrimp-broth based soups
3. Japanese-Indian Fusion (Garigari)
- Foundation: Spice-forward, dual-curry system
- Character: Bold, comparative, topping-heavy
- Target: Those seeking variety and spice intensity in one dish
- Signature: “Akiba Mori” two-curry platters
Strategic Assessment: Garigari’s positioning fills the Indian-style void, completing the Quartet’s stylistic coverage. Where Gavial and Okushiba represent Japanese curry’s evolution in different directions, Garigari represents the Indian-fusion mainstream—the accessible, spice-forward style that has achieved mass popularity nationwide.
This is not niche; this is the third pillar of Japanese curry culture, now represented in the Quartet.
Exhibit B: The QR Ordering System – Challenge and Opportunity
The Protocol
Upon being seated, a QR code is prominently displayed on the table.
System Flow:
- Scan QR code with smartphone
- Access app-based menu
- Select items and submit order
- Await delivery (payment timing varies)
The Language Challenge
Close examination of the system revealed a significant finding: no readily apparent English menu option exists within the ordering interface. This represents a potential barrier for international investigators.
However, the system is not insurmountable:
Visual Menu Strength: The app features comprehensive food photography. Each menu item is represented by clear, detailed images showing both the dish and its components.
Recommended Protocol for Non-Japanese Speakers:
- Pre-investigation preparation: Download Google Translate app with camera translation capability
- Focus on visual identification: Menu photos are sufficiently detailed to identify dishes
- Key target identification: “Akiba Mori” (アキバ盛り) is visually distinctive and readily identifiable even without translation
- Staff assistance: Available if needed—staff can be approached for order assistance
Critical Finding: Free toppings (onion achar and fukujinzuke pickles) are available and should not be overlooked.
System Efficiency
Despite peak hour conditions and language complexity, order-to-delivery time was approximately 5 minutes—remarkably efficient for a newly opened establishment under load.
Exhibit C: The Investigation Subject – “Akiba Mori Curry 1” Set
Selection Rationale
The “Akiba Mori Curry 1” represents Garigari’s signature offering and most popular menu item. The set selected included:
- Base: Akiba Mori Curry 1 (two curries + saffron rice + standard toppings)
- Addition: Extra Chicken Tatsuta portion (the base already includes one portion, so this effectively doubles it)
- Drink: Included in set
- Free toppings: Onion achar and fukujinzuke (added)
Strategic Note: The standard Akiba Mori 1 already provides substantial volume. The additional Chicken Tatsuta was selected specifically to assess topping scalability and curry compatibility.
The Presentation
Delivery occurred approximately 5 minutes after order submission.
Visual Structure:
- Center: Mound of golden saffron rice acting as divider
- Right side: Lighter-colored curry (butter chicken)
- Left side: Darker, richer-looking curry (spiced curry)
- Toppings: Strategically arranged across the plate—fried eggplant, chicken tatsuta (doubled portion), french fries, cheese, boiled quail eggs, cilantro
The presentation is deliberate: the dual-curry system invites comparative analysis, which is precisely what this investigation demands.
Field Analysis: The Dual-Curry Discovery
First Taste: The Right Side – Butter Chicken
I began with the right-side curry, approaching it with the saffron rice as a neutral base.
The first impression: mild, rich, comforting. This is butter chicken executed in the Japanese style—smooth, creamy, with distinct buttery notes that coat the palate gently. The spice level is minimal; the focus is on richness and umami depth.
The saffron rice pairing is intentional and effective. The rice’s subtle aromatic quality doesn’t compete with the mild curry; instead, it provides textural contrast and a slight floral undertone that complements the butter’s richness.
Assessment: Competent, satisfying, accessible. This is the “safe” side of the plate—the curry that will please those seeking comfort rather than challenge.
Second Taste: The Left Side – Spiced Curry
The left-side curry presented an immediate contrast in both appearance (darker, more textured) and aroma (more complex, spice-forward).
The first bite revealed the answer to Garigari’s popularity: balanced complexity. This curry demonstrates the essential Japanese-Indian fusion principle—taking Indian spice profiles and calibrating them for Japanese palates without sacrificing character.
Acidity, sweetness, and spice exist in careful equilibrium. The heat builds gradually but unmistakably. The flavor is assertive, punchy, memorable.
And there was something familiar about it—a recognition that took a moment to place. This curry shares a flavor architecture with Japan’s beloved chain curry at Matsuya. Not identical, but philosophically aligned: the same approach to balancing accessibility with spice, the same understanding of what Japanese diners expect from “Indian-style” curry, executed at a noticeably higher quality level.
Is this controversial to say? Perhaps. But the data is clear: this is quality chain-curry philosophy elevated—the kind of well-balanced Japanese-Indian fusion that has made this style beloved nationwide, now executed with better ingredients and technique.
Personal Assessment: This was my preferred curry of the two. Where the butter chicken comforts, the spiced curry engages.
Field Analysis: Topping Integration and Compatibility
The “Akiba Mori 1” comes generously adorned with six topping types. Each warrants individual assessment for curry compatibility:
Chicken Tatsuta (Doubled Portion)
Description: Fried chicken using lean breast meat, served hot and freshly fried.
Quality Assessment: The chicken itself is excellent—crispy exterior, tender interior, proper seasoning.
Curry Compatibility Assessment: Here’s where the analysis becomes nuanced. While delicious independently, the chicken tatsuta demonstrates limited synergy with either curry style. The lean breast meat, while properly prepared, doesn’t absorb or complement the curry sauces as effectively as one might hope. It functions more as a parallel protein course than as an integrated topping.
Practical Recommendation: The standard single portion included in Akiba Mori 1 is likely sufficient unless extreme hunger dictates otherwise. The doubled portion I ordered was excessive for curry integration purposes.
Cheese and Quail Eggs
Curry Compatibility: Excellent. Both toppings function as intended—adding additional mildness and richness, particularly effective with the butter chicken. The quail eggs, when broken and mixed, create luxurious textural variation. The cheese melts gradually, creating creamy pockets throughout the curry.
Recommendation: Essential components; do not skip.
French Fries
Initial Assessment: An unconventional topping for curry—potentially gimmicky.
Actual Performance: Surprisingly effective. The fries’ mild potato flavor integrates seamlessly without disrupting the curry’s profile. They absorb sauce gradually, providing textural contrast while adding substance. Think of them as potato in a different form—and potato has always belonged in Japanese curry.
Recommendation: Don’t dismiss these based on preconceptions. They work.
Fried Eggplant
Curry Compatibility: Good. The eggplant’s soft, absorbent texture makes it an ideal curry vehicle. It soaks up whichever curry it contacts, becoming a flavor-concentrated bite.
Recommendation: Standard inclusion; pairs well with both curry styles.
Cilantro
Curry Compatibility: Excellent with the spiced curry, acceptable with butter chicken.
Cilantro provides exactly what the dish needs after several rich, heavy bites—a burst of fresh, herbal brightness that resets the palate. Given the Indian-fusion nature of these curries, cilantro’s inclusion feels culturally appropriate and functionally necessary.
Recommendation: Essential for those who tolerate cilantro. For cilantro-averse diners, removal is simple.
Professional Opinion: The Verdict and Future Investigations
Garigari represents a successful addition to Tokyo Station’s Curry Quartet ecosystem. The “Akiba Mori” dual-curry system is not merely a gimmick—it’s a legitimate comparative analysis tool that provides genuine value to diners seeking variety within a single meal.
The Claimant respectfully submits the following conclusions:
On Quality
- Both curries demonstrate competent execution within the Japanese-Indian fusion style—the butter chicken offers comfort and accessibility, while the spiced curry provides the engagement and complexity that defines this category
- The spiced curry (left side) represents the stronger offering—it achieves the difficult balance of accessibility and character that has made this curry style nationally popular, executed with better ingredients and technique than typical chain offerings
- The topping system is over-engineered but functional—while not every topping achieves perfect curry synergy (chicken tatsuta), the overall variety creates satisfaction through abundance and choice
On System
- The QR ordering system presents barriers but they are surmountable with preparation (translation app) or staff assistance
- The Curry Quartet now offers complete stylistic coverage—European (Gavial), Hokkaido soup (Okushiba), and Japanese-Indian fusion (Garigari) represent three distinct philosophies, giving investigators clear choice architecture
- Queue times will likely stabilize as novelty wears off, but current 10-minute waits are justified by quality and uniqueness of the dual-curry system
On Strategy
The menu holds significant unexplored territory:
- Nibuta (Stewed Pork) Curry: Available in customizable portions from 80g to 640g—this level of scalability suggests confidence in the topping’s curry compatibility (unlike the chicken tatsuta)
- Yaesu Mori: An exclusive menu item specific to this location, warranting investigation to understand regional customization strategy
- Other platter variations: Multiple “Mori” configurations exist, each potentially offering different curry combinations
The Claimant respectfully submits that Garigari warrants multiple return investigations. The nibuta curry, in particular, represents a more intriguing topping strategy than the chicken tatsuta and demands analysis.
Based on extensive field observations, Garigari has earned its place in the Curry Quartet and provides essential data for understanding Tokyo Station’s complete curry landscape.
Recommendations
Primary Recommendation
Order the “Akiba Mori Curry 1” set (¥1,350 approximate range) for first visits:
- Provides comparative curry analysis opportunity
- Includes comprehensive topping variety
- Represents signature offering
Topping Strategy:
- Skip: Additional Chicken Tatsuta (standard portion sufficient)
- Essential: Cheese, quail eggs, cilantro (if tolerated)
- Keep: French fries, fried eggplant
- Add: Free onion achar and fukujinzuke
Alternative Investigation Targets
Within Garigari:
- Nibuta (Stewed Pork) Curry – Higher topping synergy potential
- Yaesu Mori – Location-exclusive offering
- Other platter variations – Different curry combinations
Within Curry Quartet for Comparison:
- Gavial – European-style roux curry for contrast with Indian fusion
- Okushiba Shoten – Hokkaido soup curry for complete stylistic comparison
For Cultural Context:
- What is Yoshoku? – Understanding Japanese curry’s evolution and curry rice category
Practical Notes for Fellow Investigators
Location: Tokyo Station Yaesu Underground, Curry Quartet food court
Peak Hours: Expect 10-15 minute queues during lunch (12:00-13:00)
Ordering System: QR code app-based, Japanese language
- Prepare translation app (Google Translate camera mode)
- Focus on menu photos (comprehensive and clear)
- Staff assistance available if needed
Budget: ¥1,200-1,500 for platter sets with drink
Seating: Table seating (more spacious than typical counter arrangements)
Comparison Strategy: If investigating multiple Curry Quartet shops in one day, consider ordering lighter options or sharing to maintain analytical capacity
Spice Tolerance: Akiba Mori 1 includes both mild and moderately spiced curries—suitable for range of spice preferences
FAQ: Garigari (Tokyo Station Curry Quartet)
Q: What kind of curry does Garigari serve?
A: Japanese-style Indian curry—the spice-forward fusion style that’s become mainstream in Japan. They’re distinct from the European-style (roux-based) curry at Gavial and the Hokkaido soup curry at Okushiba, completing the Curry Quartet’s three-style coverage.
Q: What is “Akiba Mori”?
A: Garigari’s signature platter featuring saffron rice in the center with two different curry styles on either side (typically butter chicken and spiced curry), plus multiple toppings including fried eggplant, chicken tatsuta, cheese, quail eggs, fries, and cilantro. It’s designed for comparative tasting.
Q: Is there an English menu?
A: The investigation found no readily apparent English option in the QR ordering system. However, the menu has detailed photos of every dish, and staff can assist with ordering. A translation app (Google Translate camera mode) is helpful but not essential.
Q: How do I order if I don’t speak Japanese?
A: The QR code system shows comprehensive food photos. Look for “Akiba Mori” (アキバ盛り) which is visually distinctive. Alternatively, approach staff and point to what others are eating or to menu photos. The system is manageable with minimal preparation.
Q: How spicy is it?
A: The “Akiba Mori 1” includes both mild (butter chicken) and moderately spiced curry. The spiced curry has noticeable heat but is calibrated for general Japanese preferences—flavorful rather than punishing. It’s unlikely to challenge those accustomed to authentic Indian spice levels.
Q: Should I order the extra Chicken Tatsuta topping?
A: Based on investigation findings, probably not. The standard portion in Akiba Mori 1 is sufficient. The chicken, while tasty, has limited curry synergy. Save appetite and budget for the nibuta (stewed pork) option, which appears more promising.
Q: How does Garigari compare to Gavial and Okushiba in the Curry Quartet?
A: Three completely different curry philosophies: Gavial = European-style roux curry (rich, complex, potato-forward). Okushiba = Hokkaido soup curry (broth-based, light, vegetable-forward). Garigari = Japanese-Indian fusion (spice-forward, bold, topping-heavy). Choose based on what you’re craving that day.
Q: Is the queue worth it?
A: Yes. As the newest and most distinctive offering in the Curry Quartet, the 10-minute wait provides access to a unique dual-curry system you can’t experience at neighboring shops. The queue will likely decrease as novelty fades.
Q: Which curry on the Akiba Mori plate is better?
A: Personal preference. The butter chicken (right side) is mild, rich, and comforting. The spiced curry (left side) is more complex, punchy, and engaging. My preference was the spiced curry for its balanced boldness, but both are well-executed.
Q: What should I order for my first visit?
A: The “Akiba Mori Curry 1” set. It provides the complete Garigari experience: both curry styles, full topping variety, and the comparative analysis opportunity that defines this restaurant’s concept.
Q: What’s the Yaesu Mori?
A: A location-exclusive menu item specific to the Tokyo Station branch. Further investigation required, but it suggests regional customization strategy—worth exploring on return visits.
Q: Can I visit all four Curry Quartet shops in one meal?
A: Theoretically possible but not recommended for quality analysis. Consider visiting 1-2 shops per visit and ordering smaller portions if comparing. Your analytical capacity decreases significantly after the second curry.
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