#Japan #Setagaya #cafe_hakkogohan #三菌 #発酵料理

Fermented Curry: A Savory Approach to Summer Wellness

As the scorching summer days persist, individuals often find themselves reaching for cold beverages and snacks. However, excessive cold food can cool down your gut, leading to decreased digestive function and a weakened immune system. To counteract this, we introduce a delicious option: fermented curry, packed with ingredients that may help warm the gut from the inside out.

At cafe 明日も発酵ごはん nippon in Shimokitazawa, you can indulge in the delightful 三菌 (three types of beneficial bacteria) integrated into a flavorful curry dish. This unique blend features an array of fermented components, including yogurt, amazake (sweet rice drink), salted malted rice, soy sauce, sake, and rice vinegar. By enjoying this hearty meal, you can help boost the good bacteria in your gut and fortify your body's resistance against the summer heat.

Not only does the curry provide a comforting warmth, but the cafe also offers a fermented spicy topping of your choice. You can choose between two varieties of hot pepper toppings: blue, made from fresh green chili, offers a crisp and refreshing heat; while red, made from ripe red chili, brings a profound and intense flavor. The combination of capsaicin from the chilies stimulates metabolism, while the malt helps with digestion and promotes an improved gut environment.

During the special event “Shimokitazawa Bar Hopping Week: Spicy vs. Cool Gourmet” from July 17th to August 3rd, the cafe will offer a mini version of its spicy fermented curry.

The desire to spread Japan's rich fermented food culture has long been ingrained in the philosophy behind cafe 明日も発酵ごはん nippon. The owner, Yumi Ogiwara, aims to creatively reinterpret traditional fermented foods without losing their essence. Guests can expect surprises, such as flavors that linger long after the first bite and colorful dishes that defy conventional expectations of fermented products. The cafe strives to enhance the dining experience, making people wonder, “Wait, is this made with miso?” or “How can it be so sweet without any sugar?”

The cafe was established in March 2025 with an intent to evoke nostalgia while offering new and exciting flavors. It has since become a space where customers can interact and share their joyous experiences about unique meals.

Culinary Expertise and Guidance

The cafe is spearheaded by Yumi Ogiwara, who transformed her life following her encounter with fermentation. After completing her studies at the Tokyo Sushi and Japanese Cuisine School and being impressed by the fermentation lessons, she pursued a career centered around functions of fermented foods. Ogiwara holds the title of Fermentation Life Advisor PRO and conducts various courses on fermented foods, supporting a broader awareness of healthy eating habits. Her mission aligns with the Fermentation Life Promotion Association, which was established in 2015 to encourage the integration of fermentation into daily life through workshops and lectures across Japan.

To ensure the highest quality dishes, renowned fermentation culinary researcher Maki Kotetomo supervises the menu, blending tradition with innovation. She recently released a valuable resource titled, “Easy Gut Health Meals for Everyone.”

Visit Us

Located in Setagaya, Tokyo, our cafe is a mere seven-minute walk from Shimokitazawa Station, accessed via Odakyu and Keio Inokashira Line. We offer a cozy atmosphere for patrons to unwind while enjoying our unique menu. The cafe operates daily from 11:30 AM until 6:00 PM (last order 5:00 PM for food, 5:30 PM for drinks) and is closed on Mondays (with occasional irregular break days). Don't forget to check out our Instagram here for updates and mouthwatering photos!

Join us in savoring our fermented curry, embracing summer with gut-friendly meals, and celebrating the timeless tradition of fermentation. Let's spread the word of this fascinating journey into deliciousness together!