While near Leicester Square, I noticed eager diners lining up outside Coco Ichibanya on 17-18 Great Newport Street. Intrigued. I later discovered it to be a renowned Japanese curry house known for its customisable options. This concept appealed to me because I’m a katsu curry lover and a fussy eater. The subsequent week, passing by their Bond Street Station branch, I made a mental note to visit it soon. If you’re looking for the best katsu curry in London, Coco Ichibanya could be your place.
“A restaurant where you can customise your Japanese curry from spice level to rice portion size and the array of toppings, a simple yet clever concept catering to your katsu cravings,” Homegirl London.
Coco Ichibanya Menu
I highly recommend exploring their customisable curry offerings. Begin by selecting your desired curry and rice portion size, ideal for those mindful of their carb intake or craving a substantial meal. Portion sizes are 200g to 550g across five levels. Next, choose your preferred spice level, ranging from mild to crazy hot. I found the standard option to be just right. Toppings vary widely, from meaty options like hamburgers, sliced beef and fried chicken to seafood delights such as shrimp, squid and bubble-fried salmon. Vegans and vegetarians have ample choices, such as eggplant, mushrooms and kimchi.
I was super happy with my standard portion and heat intensity with pumpkin croquette. Did it live up to the hype, and is it worth waiting in a queue? At first, my plate didn’t look as perfect as the pictures on the menu, where you see a straight line of rice that meets the katsu curry sauce. The curry sauce looked a tad watery, but in hindsight, it was the perfect consistency. I think I’m used to thicker sauce that’s been sitting around for a while. The pumpkin croquette was fresh and delicious. Overall, I thought it was spot on; it was a simple dish that was well executed.
Meanwhile, my partner loved every mouthful of his fried shrimp. Curry prices vary depending on quantities and toppings; mine was £13.10, while my partner paid £13.60.
There is also a menu where you can order baskets of fried items. We had the vegetarian basket with thick chips, gyozas and pumpkin croquettes for £6.80. I noticed a few people eating katsu with a sizeable dome-shaped omelette, which you can fill with cheese, chicken, pork and anything else you desire. They also serve salads, curry udon noodles, ice cream and more.
Watch My Coco Ichibanya Video
Helpful Information About Coco Ichibanya In London
To find out more, go to the Coco Ichibanya website. The two London branches are 39 James Street, London W1U 1DL, a short walk from Bond Street station, and 17-18 Great Newport Street, London WC2H 7JE, near Leicester Square station. The interiors are basic and curry colours yet suitable for the restaurant concept. On my lunchtime visit, a mix of office workers and couples enjoyed their katsu curries.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the establishment is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.
