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An inquisitive culinary mind with more than a passing interest in Buddhism, Ryoya Ito travelled to India to discover the roots of his religion. He returned a changed man – mostly thanks to all the incredible food he tasted while on the subcontinent. Ito has been hard at work replicating and refining those enlightening flavours ever since, running this comfy curry-focused eatery that opened in 2012.
Decorated with Buddha statues and located a stone’s throw from Shitennoji, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Japan, Rainbow Buddha is open for lunch every day of the week, offering up Ito’s signature Dashi Keema curry (¥1,300). A mild mixture of Sri Lanka-style curry and Japanese fish stock that showcases its creator’s background in traditional washoku , the dish wows with its colourful presentation and impeccable balance of sweet, sour and spicy flavours.
For some extra fire, pair the Dashi Keema with the day’s spicy curry for an extra ¥300. You also get to choose from a selection of six toppings, including raw egg and crispy papad.
The restaurant is open at night four days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday), when you can pair a glass of natural wine with dangerously booze-compatible dishes like a selection of deep-fried treats (bhaja) and a Bengali omelette flavoured with green chilli.
Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.
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