iCOTM October 2015: Chicken Vindaloo at Viva Goa Indian Cafe, Harajuku

Apart from a couple of times over a 15 year span, the only type of curry I ate when I lived in the UK was Chicken Vindaloo. The combination of Chicken Vindaloo, pilau rice, and paratha was a staple Saturday lunch and pretty much the only thing I'd order if I was out. I've tried to relive that in Tokyo a few times but always ended up less than satisfied. That is until I stumbled upon Viva Goa Indian Cafe's expert take on the dish in the heart of Harajuku. With Vindaloo originating from Goa, it not only satisfied with every bite, it gave a better insight into what it should actually taste like. The same dish in the UK can be like eating molten lava (curry heat is ranked by name, with CV right near the summit). This dish was hot, but it didn't need to blow your head off to satisfy. From the first bite it zings in the mouth, with a slight vinegary quality, followed by a subtle layering of flavour, which combined perfectly with the pliau rice and roti served alongside it.

The rich, refreshing sauce builds up, followed by a hint of sweet and tomatoey and light acidic soon after, culminating in an uplifting and impactful spice. Crisp P. noted that it's the sort of curry where the more you eat it the more you want it, and for me it reminded me of curries I've had in the UK, though we agreed neither of us has had anything quite like it. As far as we know, this is the place to go for Goan curry in Tokyo. It's absolutely hands down the place for anyone searching around for a proper Chicken Vindaloo.