Seemor

Curry House CoCo IchibanyaB+Worth Trying

Name: Curry House CoCo Ichibanya
Address: 39 James St, London W1U 1EB, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

39 James St, London W1U 1EB · Japanese curry restaurant, Asian restaurant, Diner · 4.6/5 Google (1842 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout

A go-to spot for Japanese curry lovers seeking comfort food and customisable options, but expect London prices and occasional service hiccups.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Curry House CoCo Ichibanya delivers reliable Japanese curry comfort food with solid food quality and convenient Soho location appeal, earning its grade through generous portions and customization options that appeal to families and regulars. However, inconsistent execution and a recent downward trend in quality prevent higher standing, while tight quarters and premium London pricing limit its appeal beyond its core audience of curry enthusiasts and repeat visitors.

Restaurant Summary

Curry House CoCo Ichibanya brings the beloved Japanese curry house experience to the heart of Soho, offering comfort food classics with a London twist. The menu is a playground for curry lovers, with customisable spice levels, rice portions, and a dizzying array of toppings. Whether you're craving crispy chicken katsu, a velvety omelette curry, or a vegetarian-friendly bowl, you'll find something to satisfy your curry itch. The vibe is casual and bustling, with efficient table service and a steady stream of regulars and newcomers alike. Portions are generous—sometimes overwhelmingly so—making this a great spot to refuel after a long day or to share a meal with friends. The culinary approach here is classic Japanese comfort food, focused on familiar flavors and hearty servings rather than avant-garde experimentation. While the menu offers some creative combinations (think kimchee or cheese-topped curries), the heart of the experience is in its reliability and customisation. This makes it a perfect fit for diners who want to tailor their meal to their exact preferences, but it may not excite those seeking cutting-edge cuisine or refined presentation. Expect a no-frills setting where the food is the star, and the atmosphere is lively, especially during peak hours. For families with kids, CoCo Ichibanya is a solid choice. The menu features simple, approachable dishes like chicken katsu curry and omelette rice that are perennial kid favorites, and staff are known to go out of their way to make young diners feel welcome. Several reviews mention positive experiences with children, and the ability to adjust spice levels and toppings makes it easy to please picky eaters. While the space can get crowded, the overall environment is friendly and accommodating for families.

At a Glance

Generous portions and highly customisable menu.
Friendly staff, especially with families and kids.
Prices are high for casual Japanese curry, especially compared to Japan.
Occasional service lapses and inconsistent food quality.
12.5% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

What Sets It Apart

customisable_japanese_curry
large_portions
friendly_staff

What People Love

The nostalgic, authentic taste that reminds them of Japan.
Crispy chicken katsu and velvety omelette curries.
Friendly staff who go above and beyond, especially for kids.
The ability to customise every aspect of their meal.
Generous portions that leave you full and satisfied.

Points of Concern

Pricing is genuinely expensive (£12-£17 mains) which may surprise casual diners.
Service can be inconsistent, with occasional lapses in attentiveness or problem resolution.
Some regulars note a recent decline in portion size and food quality.
Vegan options are not clearly marked and require staff assistance to identify.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£18-22 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Try the Chicken Katsu Curry or Omelette Curry for the most praised experience.
Vegetarians can opt for Vegetable Curry or Spinach Curry, but ask staff for vegan guidance.
Budget for £18-22 per person for a full meal with drink and service charge.

Perfect For

Craving a hearty, comforting Japanese curry after a long day.
Families looking for a casual, kid-friendly meal.
Solo diners wanting a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner.
Fans of customisable menus who like to tweak their meal.

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, cosmopolitan Soho area with a lively, youthful vibe and a mix of locals, tourists, and office workers.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy at most hours; high foot traffic and active nightlife.

Nearby: Surrounded by other restaurants, bars, and shops; close to theatres and Chinatown.

MayfairA sophisticated dining and social scene characterized by Michelin-starred restaurants, exclusive private members' clubs, and upscale international cuisine. The neighborhood offers a refined, cosmopolitan dining experience with significant emphasis on quality and prestige.

West EndA vibrant sub-district blending high-end commercial spaces with cultural venues, featuring a dynamic and sophisticated urban dining landscape.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–21:00 Wednesday12:00–21:00 Thursday12:00–21:00 Friday12:00–21:00 Saturday12:00–21:00 Sunday12:00–21:00

Available: Delivery, Takeout

View full analysis on Seemor →