This is our review of Yosuka (Maps), visited in January 2026.
If you’re searching for a cozy lunch hideaway in Tokyo, look no further than Hon to Genmai Curry Yosuka (本と玄米カレー ヨスカ) in Yoga. I stumbled upon this small café and fell in love with its comforting atmosphere and perfectly spiced chicken curry. Nestled away from the bustle, this spot combines the soothing scent of books and spices, giving you a moment to relax and recharge.
Discovering a Hidden Lunch Spot in Yoga
Located just a 4-minute walk from Yoga Station in Setagaya, Hon to Genmai Curry Yosuka sits at the top of a narrow alley stairway, waiting to be discovered. Opened in June 2021 by owner Riho Kobayashi, the concept behind this café is simple yet heartfelt — “a place where you can return to your best self through food and reading.”
The name Yosuka comes from the Japanese word yosudokoro (a place to gather and rest), reflecting Kobayashi’s wish to create connection and comfort. True to its name, the café’s warm wooden counter, filled bookshelves, and gentle music invite solo diners to unwind.
With only six counter seats, Yosuka is designed for those who enjoy quiet time over a mindful meal. Lunch hours run from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. On arrival, I was greeted by a calm, heartwarming space that smelled faintly of spices and new books. It is a place where a little hard to find but absolutely worth it.
Enjoying the Signature Chicken Curry Lunch
The menu is refreshingly simple. For ¥1,100, you can choose between Chicken Curry or the Weekly Curry, both served with brown rice (genmai) and five small side dishes. I chose the chicken curry and paired it with roasted tomato in oil, shiitake achar, walnut miso, iburigakko tofu salad, and myoga ginger with dried baby sardines.
When the plate arrived, I couldn’t help but admire its rustic charm — plump grains of brown rice glistening beside a pool of golden curry, dotted with colorful side dishes. The tender chicken melted in the mouth, and the curry had just the right amount of spice to warm the soul. It’s spicy yet gentle, and I found that balance spot on.
Layers of Flavor and Tranquility
Each spoonful revealed layers of flavor and aroma. The spice blend, rich with cumin and coriander, mingled beautifully with a base of kelp, bonito, and shiitake broth — a Japanese twist that added depth and umami. The chicken was wonderfully juicy, while the nutty fragrance of brown rice enhanced the curry’s warmth.
The five side dishes played an important role too — offering a symphony of textures and tastes from tangy to creamy. The combination of chewy rice, crisp myoga, and smooth walnut miso kept every bite lively and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill your stomach but soothes your mind.
A Place Worth Returning To
As I finished the last spoonful, mixing the remaining roux with pickles and rice, I felt an uplifting sense of contentment. Yosuka offers more than a meal — it offers a full sensory experience.
I couldn’t stop thinking about what to order next time. Maybe I’ll try their aigake (a mix of two curries) and spend another hour enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Hon to Genmai Curry Yosuka isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a refuge for anyone craving quiet, connection, and a taste of thoughtful, spice-filled cooking.
So if you’re looking for the best curry lunch near Yoga Station or a Tokyo café perfect for solo dining, make your way to Yosuka. Just don’t forget to bring your favorite book — you might find it pairs perfectly with their curry.
