yutak829
Curry exploration in Nihonbashi, Hachioji, Sri Lanka sequel, Modern Sri Lanka in Kayabacho Station direct access building, a new breeze is blowing, a popular spice curry restaurant, Spice Cafe in Oshiage has opened a second store in Hachioji, opened in 2003 in Oshiage, serving a variety of spice dishes, attracting attention with its unique spice cuisine. The second store, Modern Sri Lanka, focuses on Sri Lankan cuisine, a specialty store that opened in Hachioji in December 2021. The Kabuto One, a high-rise building that symbolizes Hachioji, opened, and Hoppers opened on the first floor facing the street. As part of the redevelopment where popular stores gather, the atmosphere has changed drastically. On weekends, Hachioji used to be quiet, but now it has become a popular spot where young people come and go. Hoppers is also a modern and minimalist store with a simple design. There is no prominent sign, and a small guide board at the entrance indicates that only those in the know can enter. The glass-walled interior allows you to see the kitchen, and the restaurant is bright and the service is polite. The Sri Lankan staff in the kitchen also provide courteous service. The theme is Sri Lankan cuisine for special occasions. With about 20 seats at the counter and table seats, it is a modern space that has been refined in a minimalistic way, following the style of an old spice cafe. The lunch, prepared by Sri Lankan chefs, is a set meal with three types of curry to choose from. Today, I chose fish, shrimp, and chicken curry, but additional items can be added. The additional curry is served in a larger portion. The plate of shrimp curry with added fish allows you to enjoy Sri Lankan dishes surrounded by the sea. First, a cardamom-infused hot water is served, which is a gentle service that moves the heart, preparing the body gently for the meal according to Ayurveda. Even in midsummer, the hot water is soothing, and for some reason, it feels comforting. Then, the one plate arrives, with surprising anchovies in the center and various side dishes surrounding them. Enjoying each dish one by one and understanding the individual characteristics, combining them to seek the taste harmony. The shrimp curry has a deep flavor with added shrimp broth and coconut, giving it a mild flavor. The fish curry, made with today's sea bass, has a spicy kick of chili and a pleasant acidity of tomatoes. The side dishes on top of the rice are also enjoyable, such as crispy urad dal papadum, anchovies sautéed in oil, green beans tel dal, bone-in dried sardines, oil-fried katsuobushi, fried eggplant in a richly seasoned moju, potato stir-fried with coconut flakes, and winter melon cooked in a sweet and savory curry. Each dish has a unique and enjoyable taste, using Japanese ingredients in Sri Lankan cuisine. The dried anchovies are surprisingly healthy and flavorful, adding a special touch. Mixing the side dishes with the curry, the taste becomes even more delicious. The balance between the bold and subtle flavors, the spices that burst in the mouth, and the familiar taste of the ingredients make it easy to enjoy even the aftertaste. Wanting to savor a little more, a small dessert with just the right amount of sweetness is served. A set of coconut brownie and tea, with Dilmah tea served this time, which has a wonderful astringency, depth, and richness. The brownie also has a spicy kick. Hopper, the namesake of the restaurant, also serves sweet crepes made with rice flour, shaped like a bowl, which is a must-try. Looking forward to enjoying the night as well, the charm of Sri Lanka deepens. Sri Lanka.