There are evenings when the pull toward Japanese curry feels less like hunger and more like a quiet longing for something that settles both body and spirit. Coco Ichibanya Singapore appeared in my thoughts with the kind of gentle persistence that suggests inevitability. The Curry House Coco Ichibanya at Plaza Singapura drew me in that particular hour when the day’s edges had softened and all I sought was a space where warmth could unfold slowly, where familiar flavors might offer their unhurried comfort. What followed was the kind of quiet satisfaction that needs no announcement.
For those exploring the Best Japanese Curry Singapore, Coco Ichibanya consistently ranks as a top recommendation for its authentic flavors and customizable options.
Coco Ichibanya Singapore: Restaurant Information
Locations: Five outlets across Singapore, including the latest at Plaza Singapura’s new wing and PLQ Mall
Cuisine: Specializes in authentic Japanese curry with customizable options
Menu Highlights: Chicken cutlet curry, pork cutlet curry, seafood toppings like grilled garlic prawn and salmon teriyaki, vegetable curry, scrambled egg curry, and more
Customization: Choose rice portion sizes from 150g to over 900g, spice levels from mild to level 5, and a variety of toppings including cheese, bacon, and vegetables
Dining Experience: Cozy and casual atmosphere, seating around 51 diners per outlet, popular during weekends and peak hours
Special Features: Vegetarian curry option made with plant-based ingredients; kid-friendly sets available
Operating Hours: 10am – 10pm
Contact: Visit the official website or respective outlet pages for reservations and inquiries
Accessibility: Outlets conveniently located in major malls like Plaza Singapura and PLQ Mall for easy access
Customization and Variety: Tailoring Your Curry Experience
One of the standout features of Coco Ichibanya is the extensive customization options that allow diners to tailor their curry just the way they like it. You can select your preferred rice portion size, ranging from a modest 150g to a generous 900g or more, catering to different appetites. Spice levels are equally flexible, with choices from mild, ideal for children or those who prefer a gentler taste, up to level 5 for those craving a fiery kick.
Beyond the classic curry bases, Coco Ichibanya offers several sauces including pork, beef, and vegetable, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The nearly 40 varieties of toppings let you mix and match ingredients such as meat, seafood, and vegetables, including options like hamburg, pork curry, and even a tuna salad side for a refreshing contrast. For those who prefer plant-based options, the restaurant also features a vegetarian curry made exclusively with plant-based ingredients, demonstrating their commitment to catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
This level of customization not only enhances the dining experience but also shows Coco Ichibanya’s dedication to satisfying the unique preferences of each customer, whether dining solo or with family. It’s no doubt that this flexibility is part of why so many people love and recommend the restaurant, making it an excellent choice for any date, casual meal, or group gathering.
Main Dishes and Menu Highlights at Coco Ichibanya Singapore
Curry Rice at Coco Ichibanya: The Classic Comfort Dish
The moment I saw the curry rice on the menu, I knew I had to order it. I went with a classic: the chicken cutlet curry ($15.90). The chicken cutlet was golden brown, perfectly crisp on the outside, and tender inside, soaking up the Japanese curry sauce in the most comforting way. The curry itself was smooth and savoury, with just the right amount of heat, nothing too overpowering, but enough to linger on your palate.
Grilled Garlic Prawn and Other Toppings to Enhance Your Curry
What makes Coco Ichibanya even more special is the wide selection of toppings you can add to your curry rice. I couldn’t resist trying the grilled garlic prawn ($7), which added a smoky richness to the dish. The prawns were tender and packed with flavour, and the garlic was subtle but present, perfectly complementing the curry’s richness.
If seafood isn’t your thing, there’s also grilled squid ($6), which I plan to try next time. If you’re in the mood for a more indulgent meal, you can opt for a pork cutlet or wagyu beef steak as your topping.
Mini Salad: A Simple Side That Complements the Rich Curry
To balance out the richness of my meal, I ordered a mini salad ($3). The salad was simple but fresh, with crisp greens and a light dressing. It added just the right amount of contrast to the heavier curry, refreshing my palate between bites of the cutlet curry. While it’s not a standout dish on its own, it’s a welcome side to balance the meal.
Cutlet Curry: A Comforting and Hearty Dish
Cutlet curry is a staple at Coco Ichibanya, and for good reason. The pork cutlet curry ($16.90) is another dish I’ve tried in the past, and it’s just as satisfying as the chicken cutlet curry. The breaded pork cutlet is crispy and juicy, and the curry sauce, thick, smooth, and full of depth, wraps around it perfectly. It’s a hearty, no-frills dish that delivers exactly what you want when you’re in the mood for Japanese curry.
Chicken Cutlet Curry: A Simple Classic Done Right
The chicken cutlet curry is perhaps the most popular choice at Coco Ichibanya, and for good reason. The chicken cutlet is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in rich, savoury curry sauce. I opted for the medium spice level, and it was just the right amount of heat to bring the flavours together without being overwhelming. The portion size is generous, and the rice was perfectly cooked, giving the curry a base to shine.
Grilled Squid and Other Seafood Options to Try
Though I went for the grilled garlic prawn with my curry, Coco Ichibanya offers a range of seafood options, like grilled squid ($6), which I’ll definitely be trying on my next visit. It’s nice to see the restaurant offer more seafood choices alongside their classic cutlet curry. The grilled squid has a slightly smoky, charred flavour that pairs beautifully with the curry sauce.
Final Thoughts: A Cozy and Satisfying Meal at Coco Ichibanya Singapore
Coco Ichibanya Singapore is the kind of place where you can always count on a satisfying meal. Whether you’re here for a chicken cutlet curry, a comforting bowl of curry rice, or a grilled garlic prawn to complement your meal, you’ll always find something to hit the spot.
The restaurant offers a cozy, casual dining experience, making it perfect for a quick meal or a relaxed dinner. The Curry House Coco Ichibanya at Plaza Singapura is always ready to serve up comforting Japanese curry dishes, no matter the occasion.
If you’re craving Japanese curry, Coco Ichibanya Singapore is always a reliable, comforting choice that won’t disappoint.
