ちょにき
I visited a restaurant in Nagano Town that offers original Indian curry dishes tailored to Japanese preferences. The restaurant is located in a rural setting, with a farmhouse appearing amidst wide fields. Upon entering, I found other customers waiting in the reception area. I provided my name and car number to the staff and waited for my turn. When my name was called, I was ushered into the restaurant. I informed the staff that it was my first visit, and they kindly explained the menu to me. The curry options included Chicken Masala (spicy), Chicken Curry (spicy), Shrimp and Coconut Curry (mild), Keema Curry (mild), and Vegetable Curry (medium). Each dish was explained in detail. Customers could choose between "Japanese rice" or premium aromatic rice from India called "Basmati rice." The prices ranged from 1,350 yen for a plate with one curry to 2,000 yen for a plate with three curries, each served with sides such as bean curry, two stir-fried dishes, onion achar, pickles, yogurt, and roasted beans. I opted for a plate with two curries: Chicken Masala, Shrimp and Coconut Curry, and Basmati rice, along with a drink set of "Iced Japanese Black Tea." My companion chose a plate with three curries: Chicken, Keema, and Vegetable, so we could share and try all five varieties. Water was self-served in large shot glasses. The Chicken Masala had a spicy kick with chunks of chicken, the Chicken Curry was moderately spicy, the Shrimp and Coconut Curry had a creamy texture with a mild sweetness, the Keema Curry featured minced meat and green peas with a simple flavor, and the Vegetable Curry had a tomato base with chunks of tomato and carrots, and a mild spiciness. The plates for two curry dishes were slightly larger than those for three curries. The generous amount of curry allowed us to mix and match with the sides for a variety of flavors. The Basmati rice was long and slender, providing a unique texture. The "Iced Japanese Black Tea" came with syrup, and I wished I could have spent more leisurely time there if the restaurant had been less crowded. The restaurant in Nagano Town exuded a countryside charm, emphasizing the use of locally sourced, pesticide-free or low-pesticide ingredients.