Curee

“Curry is the bridge between Malaysia and Japan”

“ Curee can be pronounced as Ka-Ray, which means Japanese Curry”

What first comes to mind when we mention Japanese cuisine? Malaysians often think of sushi, ramen and don and while curry, the national dish of Japan is often seen as a side dish. After curry was brought into Japan by the British during the Meiji period, it was combined with Japan’s rice culture and was widely loved since then for its rich and smooth flavour.

As a multicultural country, Malaysia is a home to a wide variety of curries. The owner, Sam, thinks that Malaysian’s taste buds are difficult to please. In order to promote and introduce Japanese cuisine, he must first tackle curry and indirectly build a bridge between both countries’ curry culture.

“Our speciality is Hokkaido soup curry.”

Japanese curry is known to be less spicy as fruit puree is added for sweetness. What differentiates Hokkaido soup curry from any other Japanese curry is instead of directly mixing with rice, soup curry is often served separately. Sam takes the concept of soup curry, but spices up the curry to suit the taste of Malaysians, in hope to introduce Japanese culture through food.

Their food is simple, delicious and most importantly, radiates happiness. In a small bowl of soup curry topped with various veggies and some fluffy rice, you will be in pure happiness. If you are also a matcha lover, do get a cup of their matcha white chocolate! You will love the delicate sweetness and aroma from the combination of rich white chocolate and matcha. Don’t forget to order some lotus root chips and takoyaki for a perfect afternoon tea with your friends.

“The shop design is retained the same.”

If you are first to Curee, you’ll find both the outdoor and indoor seating spacious. The former mainly focus on a minimal look with a white theme and wood furnishings; while the latter is more fun with quirky doodles and wall stickers. In addition, you will be amazed by the enthusiastic indoor settings: the two-story area has a red-brick upper floor and a white themed lower floor, allowing the shop to share both vintage and modern vibes.

Speaking of design, Sam decided to retain the shop as it is by just repainting the red-brick walls and keeping some iron pillars from construction to preserve the vintage atmosphere from before. The modern decorations add a touch of personality to the conservative style and makes the shop more unique when it contrasts with the minimal outdoor settings.

Sam also believes that through curry, he will not only introduce Japanese culture to Malaysia, if done right, to make people fall in love with Japanese curry at an affordable price. If you're still wondering about your weekend meals, why don’t have a comfy meal in this shop!