[Famous Shinjuku Curry Spot] Crowded with Foreign Tourists! Enjoy Katsu Curry and Croquette Curry at the Reopened “Monsnack Shinjuku Kinokuniya Building”

Introduction
Hello everyone, this is GOK from Daily Shinjuku.
I visited the recently reopened Monsnack Shinjuku Kinokuniya Building, a legendary curry spot loved for decades. Let’s take a closer look at the restaurant’s new interior, menu updates, and the famous Katsu Curry and Croquette Curry that continue to draw both locals and international visitors.

Monsnack Reopens in February 2024 at the Kinokuniya Building

Monsnack is a long-established curry shop in Shinjuku, famous as the originator of “soupy curry.” After seismic reinforcement work on the Kinokuniya Building, the restaurant officially reopened on February 23, 2024.
This was my first visit after the reopening, during a weekday lunchtime.

Inside the Reopened Monsnack Shinjuku Kinokuniya Building

At lunchtime, the restaurant was packed with customers, with several people waiting. Thanks to the high turnover, I was seated after just a few minutes.

Although located in the same spot as before, the interior design had changed significantly. Similar to the Monsnack branch in the Shinjuku Nomura Building, the décor features brick-style walls and warm lighting, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

All services—collecting your food, water, and returning trays—are now self-service. Seating includes counter and two-person tables, totaling 22 seats, an upgrade from the old U-shaped counter.

Tickets are purchased from a vending machine near the entrance, and customers are seated once spots open up.

Menu Highlights

• Katsu Curry – ¥1,000
• Pork Curry – ¥750
• Chicken Curry – ¥750
• Beef Curry – ¥900
• Fried Chicken Curry – ¥900
• Stamina Curry – ¥900
• Seafood Curry – ¥1,000
• Vegetable Curry – ¥900
• Croquette Curry – ¥850
• Egg Curry – ¥800
• Cheese Curry – ¥900

Compared to the Nomura Building branch, prices have increased by about ¥50–100. Unfortunately, the popular “Daily Special Menu,” which offered ¥100 off, is no longer available.

Croquette Curry and Katsu Curry at Monsnack

I first ordered the Croquette Curry (¥850).
At the counter, customers can freely add Fukujinzuke pickles and cucumber pickles.

The curry roux was as light and soupy as ever. Compared to recent years, the spice punch felt slightly milder. Large chunks of tender pork melted easily with a spoon, and the crispy croquette paired beautifully with the curry.

Next, I tried the Katsu Curry (¥1,000) with Cheese (+¥200).
The cutlet seemed larger than before, offering a stronger impact. While prices have risen compared to the old store, the size and quality of the katsu appear to have been upgraded as well.

With cheese topping, the dish felt more luxurious and filling. Once again, I finished the entire plate quickly—it’s simply that delicious.

Summary

Monsnack Shinjuku Kinokuniya reopened on February 23, 2024, bringing back its beloved soupy curry to the heart of Shinjuku. With the current inbound tourism boom, the restaurant now attracts many foreign visitors, with Katsu Curry being especially popular among them.

While the atmosphere of a nostalgic, family-style eatery feels somewhat reduced, Monsnack remains a must-visit for curry lovers. If you’re in Shinjuku, it’s worth stopping by to try their signature dishes.

Shop Information

• Name: Monsnack Shinjuku Kinokuniya Building
• Address: B1F Kinokuniya Building, 3-17-7 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
• Access: 5 min walk from Shinjuku Station, 2 min walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station, 6 min walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station
• Hours: Mon–Sat 11:00–21:15 / Sun & Holidays 11:00–21:00
• Closed: None
• Seats: 22
• Payment: Credit card, e-money, QR code accepted
• Tabelog Score: 3.64 (as of Jan 2025)

Looking for the original article in Japanese?
Click here to view the Japanese version on Daily Shinjuku:
👉 https://daily-shinjuku.tokyo/2025/01/04/monsnack-shinjuku-kinokuniya/