Ginza might be known for its luxury boutiques and high-end restaurants, but tucked away in one of its quiet backstreets, I found something that represents a new side of Japanese food culture — spice curry.
As someone from Japan, I’ve grown up with Japanese curry — that rich, sweet, comforting dish we all love at home.
But spice curry is different. It’s lighter, more aromatic, and inspired by many global flavors. In Japan, it’s become a huge trend over the past few years, but I don’t think it’s well-known overseas yet.
So when I visited HANGETSU (半月) in Ginza, I felt excited to introduce this evolving Japanese style of curry to people around the world.
Quick Introduction
Hi everyone. I am Yuki from Japan. As you can guess I am Japanese living in Tokyo. With my experience being Japanese-English translator/interpretor, I usually write a Japanese blog to support English learners. Here in this blog for English speakers, I would like to further utilize my knowledge as a “National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter” and to introduce and share my knowledge that are related to Japan and hope that some of them will be helful for your travel to Japan!
About HANGETSU
HANGETSU means “half moon” in Japanese — and somehow, that calm, simple image fits the place perfectly.
The restaurant only has less than 10 counter seats and 1 table seats, soft lighting, and a warm, wooden interior. The moment you step in, the aroma of spices wraps around you like a gentle hug.
It’s not flashy or loud. It is modern and feels like a secret spot known only to locals who truly love good curry.
I visited there around 11:30. Some people were already waiting, but don’t worry. The tables turn over quickly here, so you won’t have to wait long for a seat.
At the entrane, ready for the google translation and scan black board menu before you get in. But you don’t have to worry if you don’t do it, english menu is inside the restaurant. (see the following section for more detail with a picture)
How to Order
Like many small Japanese restaurants (especially in Ramen shops), HANGETSU uses a ticket vending machine system.
You simply choose your curry, pay at the machine, and hand the ticket to a staff.
Don’t worry if you don’t read Japanese — there’s also an English menu available, and the photos make it easy to choose.
The Curry I Tried
That day, I ordered their “Two Curry Plate”, which came with:
- Honey Mustard Chicken
- Cabbage, Bean Sprout & Red Ginger Keema Curry
plus a topping of their famous Spiced Egg.
The presentation was stunning — colorful, balanced, and almost too pretty to eat.
The Honey Mustard Chicken had a strong mustard aroma, but the sweetness from the honey made it mild and incredibly comforting. The sauce was smooth, with just enough kick to wake up your taste buds.
The Keema Curry, on the other hand, was bold. It had a good level of heat, perfectly balanced by the texture of the cabbage and bean sprouts. The red ginger added a bright, refreshing accent that made every bite exciting.
Both curries felt distinctly Japanese — not the heavy, oily kind, but a modern spice curry style that’s been trending across Japan lately. It’s a flavor I’ve never found outside of Japan.
Honey Mustard Chicken on the right, Keema Curry on the left in the picture below.
The Spiced Egg (Must-Try!)
Now, I have to talk about the Spiced Egg.
It’s a soft-boiled egg marinated in a blend of spices, and it was incredible.
The yolk was perfectly runny, and the flavor — slightly spicy, savory, and rich — brought everything together. I could honestly eat a plate full of just these eggs.
Little Details I Loved
On the table, there were a bottle of special vinegar, chili peppers and a jar of “Fukujin-zuke:福神漬け” – Japanese pickles that you could add as you like.
I loved how every element — from the ceramic plates to the simple silver spoons — felt intentional. You can tell that the chef really cares about both flavor and presentation.
Access & Info
HANGETSU (半月)
📍 6-4-15 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
🚇 3 min walk from Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro)
🕒 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Mon – Sat)
11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Sun)
💳 Cashless payments (Paypay) accepted
🔗 View on Google Maps
Final Thoughts
HANGETSU isn’t just a place to eat — it’s an experience.
The flavors are refined yet deeply comforting, and the whole atmosphere feels like a quiet escape from Ginza’s busy streets.
If you’re exploring Tokyo and want to taste Japanese-style spice curry that you can’t find anywhere else, HANGETSU should be at the top of your list.
I’ll definitely be back!
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