curry up harajuku nigo — Curry Up Harajuku│© Curry-Up

Curry Up is an intersection of street culture, fashion, and culinary tradition. Opened in 2010 in Tokyo’s Harajuku district, the restaurant is the brainchild of Tomoaki Nagao, better known as NIGO, the Japanese streetwear icon, creator of A Bathing Ape (BAPE). As someone who’s always pushed cultural boundaries, NIGO brought his vision into the world of food with the same flair that made his fashion lines internationally coveted. Named by his long-time collaborator and friend, Pharrell Williams, Curry Up has become an embodiment of cultural fusion and community spirit in the streets of Tokyo.

A Tribute to Harajuku’s Past

Curry Up was born as a homage to the legendary Indian curry shop Ghee, a small but iconic eatery where NIGO worked as a student. Inspired by that experience, he wanted to recreate the warm, community-driven space that could serve as both a culinary and cultural hub. The restaurant has maintained that ethos, serving as a melting pot for fans of both curry and street culture. Its Harajuku origins carry significant weight, as this district has been a trendsetter in global street fashion for decades, and Curry Up seamlessly fits into that creative landscape.

The Menu - Japanese-Indian Fusion

The restaurant’s menu offers a blend of Japanese and Indian flavors. Dishes range from familiar Japanese curries to more adventurous offerings, including Butter Chicken, Beef Tendon (Gyusuji), and Keema Chicken. You can opt for single curry dishes or, more commonly, a two-in-one combo plate, a perfect way to experience multiple flavors in one meal. The rice is often served with trendy touches, like toasted almonds, giving it a modern feel. While the curry retains a fusion vibe—melding the lighter, flavorful profiles of Japanese curry with the richness of Indian spices—Curry Up doesn’t stick to the rules of either cuisine, providing something distinctly its own.

curry up nakameguro nigo — Curry Up Nakameguro│© Curry-Up

A Stylish Dining Experience

The design of Curry Up was conceptualized by the acclaimed architectural firm Wonderwall, led by Masamichi Katayama, known for its work with luxury brands and iconic streetwear stores like BAPE and Nike Tokyo. The restaurant’s sleek, minimalistic interior with an American feel creates a comfortable, laid-back environment for diners. The signature mascot Cumin, designed by Japanese artist Naoto Hinai, adds a playful touch, which is also reflected in Curry Up’s merchandise like caps, T-shirts, and pins.

In recent years, the brand has expanded beyond Harajuku, opening a second Tokyo location in Nakameguro in 2018 and its first international branch in Hong Kong. The Repulse Bay shop has become a new destination for fashion-conscious foodies, featuring hand-painted artwork and exclusive merchandise .

A Destination for Street Culture Fans

Though Curry Up is a curry shop at its core, its cultural significance transcends food. For streetwear enthusiasts, this restaurant is almost a pilgrimage site. Pharrell Williams, a close friend of NIGO and co-founder of Billionaire Boys Club, frequently visits the shop whenever he’s in Tokyo. For those immersed in street culture, Curry Up offers an authentic connection to the lifestyle and artistry that has made Harajuku famous worldwide.

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