As a vegetarian it's hard to find places that accommodate cruelty-free diets, not to mention doing it well. I had the udon curry soup, spicy like I asked -just the right amount- and they added vegetables, tofu, and pickled daikon; I wish it was on the menu this way (which would probably bring more vegetarian visitors) because I almost passed them by, but I'm glad I asked because it was absolutely delicious and hit the spot. Exceeded my expectations! Actually put me in a pretty good mood, lol! read more

Been going here for a while and now leaving a review because they deserve it. I get the karaage medium spice check with beef curry. Food is always consistent with a very tasty flavor. Best curry spot in San Jose. I've tried other Japanese curry spots and it isn't the same quality as curry life. Service is great. Self ordering kiosk. The workers are very kind and helpful if you have any questions. Lighting is great. Open seating with outdoor seating also. Nice decorations on the wall. Very clean place. Definitely going back. read more

Curry Life - Karaage fried chicken Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Parking is plentiful and easy to find. The plaza has a great assortment of other restaurants and shops (Daiso, Paris Baguette, Teaspoon...). There's limited seating inside. Ordering is completed through a self-serve kiosk. Chicken Katsu Curry (5/5): wowow. Super crispy. The moment I stuck my fork in I knew I was in for a treat. The curry was absolutely spectacular. It was light but had good flavor. It's a surreal feeling but absolutely amazing. Tap to pay is accepted. Overall Curry Life is a spectacular place. The curry is absolutely top notch. read more

Curry Life - Chicken katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Service extremely nice. Welcoming ambiance, quick service, excellent portion sizes. Manageable sized menu. Very nice even when we came in around 30 minutes from closing. read more

We just had a lovely take out dinner from curry life. Everything was delicious and fresh and hot. Fried chicken was great and nicely fried! Thanks again curry life. Nice work ! read more

Yummy cool place reminds you of Tokyo cafes excellent service and fast. Good value and again yummy! read more

Curry Life - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

I love curry and I love udon, it's a miracle that I haven't tried this spot until now! I came by here with two friends, we all ordered the same dish (a small curry udon with beef onion, I got medium spicy and they got mild) and we received our dine-in order. They yell out your number, you pick it up, get seating, and start eating. The broth is very hearty and it definitely isn't super spicy, but if you want you can add your own cayenne pepper at the self-serve section with water cups and more utensils. I asked for two bowls for my friends to have some of my udon, since the regular size is a sizeable amount TBH. I really enjoyed eating here, the udon noodles were chewy and they did not skimp on the portion of beef! When you're done, you rack your tray at the end of the restaurant and throw away any chopstick wrappers/utensils in the garbage and recycling bins. Ambiance is really nice, the interior is decorated with dark wood and chalkboards that gives this location a very homey local business vibe. read more

Curry Life - Beef Onion Curry Udon - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Great place - I love the curry flavor! I can only rate the To-go experience since I showed up 15 minutes before closing. There's a sign that 30 minutes prior to closing, it's pretty much to-go orders only. It's a self-serve kiosk - a pretty easy menu to follow. We got the beef curry base - very yummy. Will be trying the vegetable base next time! As for protein, we tried the pork katsu, chicken katsu and the breaded shrimp. Will be returning here to try the dining experience! read more

Curry Life - Interior - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

We have been a loyal customer of this place for as long as I can remember, probably 7+ years. We started going here because my daughter used to have a weekly art lesson nearby and we happened to find this place when looking for a place to have dinner after the lesson, and it became our tradition to go and have katsu curry every Friday. We loved the place, its food, and simple self-service ordering system. Last week, we noticed that they hired wait staff who brought food to us and bused the table while still keeping self-service ordering. Yesterday, when we stopped by, we noticed that they changed to full-service. THIS IS WHERE THINGS WENT SOUTH VERY FAST. Let me list things that went horrible wrong. 1. There was no official waitlist, and the place was full. A male wait staff told us to wait outside. While we were waiting outside, a couple went inside, and a female wait staff saw them and sat them right away, even though three of us could probably take table for two with extra chair. 2. When two 2-seat tables became available, they put them together and let us sit. 3. We waited good 15 minutes without water nor utensils nor napkins. A few more parties came and sat, and they took orders from them before us. We were getting pretty upset at this time. 4. Suddenly the female wait staff comes over and tried to move one of the two tables away WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING. I was dumbfounded. And this time an asian man who seems to be helping in the kitchen (may have been an ower?) brought an extra chair, and we realized that they were trying to sit two-person party with the table. NONE OF THEM said anything or apologized. We should have just left, but kids were hungry and they like their food. 5. After food, they brought a bill, but it was WRONG. They added an extra item. I told the male staff that it was wrong. And he brought updated bill, but now it was for fewer items than we ordered. I could have just paid less and left, but I didn't want to do that. I told the male staff to add an item that he missed, and then he was able to give a bill with correct amount. I am upset and sad that we won't be going back there again. We were completely put off by yesterday's experience. read more

Plaza parking available but it gets crazy busy - Teaspoon, Mitsuwa, Daiso, and other eateries are all here in this plaza Stumbled upon this place cause GF and I were looking for "cheap-ish eats" Interior is fairly small, I'd say about 15 persons max can fit here Ordering is at the counter using their kiosk Chicken Katsu with Beef Curry - mine was good, thick and flavorful pieces of chicken, I think the higher the spice level just means more spice powder. You can also request for Katsu sauce packets at the front (kinda tiny like a 2x2 so you may need a lot if you're like me and likes stuff sauceyy heh) Chicken Karaage with Veggie Curry - gf's dish, Karaage was tasty and tender...but within couple hours, her stomach started hurting... I guess Beef Curry is better than Veggie Curry? read more

Curry Life - Chicken Karaage with Veggie Curry (top) and Chicken Katsu with Beef Curry (bottom) - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

This little restaurant packs a BIG punch with its food, serving size and service. I was really impressed with the amount of food that was given and the flavor was oh so YUMMY! I literally walked out doing my happy dance! read more

Curry Life - Champion Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Wow, what a gem. We showed up near closing, but was able to eat outside. Perfect portions and lots of curry sauce! Everything was delicious. Pork katsu was crunchy and tender. We did the mild spicy and spicy. It wasn't too bad. Would definitely come back again. read more

See all

Great curries! tldr; curries are good but more spice level just means more cayenne pepper dusted on top, seating is solid and self-serve/bussing. Curry Life is in the corner of a plaza with Mitsuwa, N7, and many other East-Asian centric shops. There's a lot of parking within the plaza, but the spots near this restaurant always seemed filled and bustling on weekends especially. Once inside, you get to order through a kiosk and seat yourself. We tried a chicken katsu curry plate (mild spice level) and a shrimp tempura curry plate (medium spice). Chicken Katsu: Going with mild was perfect as I got a hint of the curry's kick without being overwhelmed. The meat was cooked well and the only comment I have is that the rice portion didn't seem to be quite enough for the amount of curry/meat. Shrimp Tempura: The tempura was crispy with a good savory flavor you want in shrimp temp. The medium spice level however just seemed to add cayenne pepper which felt like it clashed with the curry's usual spice. I may not be totally correct with the cayenne, but a few drops of sriracha would have tasted better imo. Overall, great food and a quiet, relaxed vibe inside! read more

Curry Life - Chicken katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Good is good Portion is decent Ebi is crispy and nice Curry sauce is yummy Would definitely come back Self order station read more

Curry Life - Ebi curry - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Came here with a buddy after work. No lines. Fairly simple operation. Order your food yourself and wait for your order to be called. I ordered the Chicken Katsu Curry Rice and it was good. Didn't expect much as far as service goes when you're ordering through a tablet. read more

Curry Life - Chicken Katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

I got the medium pork karaage with fish tofu on the side! I love the fish tofu! I love all tofu! so how could I not die of happiness!? Best Japanese curry in the area. You ordered from a kiosk, and service was just picked up. Ambiance? It's tight, but they've got a few tables. read more

Curry Life - Pork karaage curry with a side of fish tofu - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Delicious Japanese curry spot located in the Mitsuawa plaza. This place is more casual as you order on a tablet in the front and it is self seating. Its a pretty small restaurant with only around 6 tables. I ordered the shrimp tempura curry with rice and enjoyed it. It was a bit heavier than other Japanese curries that I have had but I still thought it was good. The tempura was super crispy. The regular size was a perfect serving size for me but I think it would not be enough for big eaters. The mild was also decently spicy, so I suspect the spicy can get SUPER spicy. They had self serve water, utensil, and sauce bar in the front. The workers were friendly and super quick with getting the food ready. When you are done with your food, you clean up your tray and place it on a shelf in the back. read more

Curry Life - Fried Shrimp Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Angel, their chef, is so consistent!! I tried the beef udon with chicken katsu on the side. Definitely warmed up my tummy and satisfied my craving!! Calico on the side hit, too! read more

Curry Life - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

I have a favorite Japanese curry spot but wanted to try something new. I didn't realize this was close to my work and I always go to Strawberry Plaza. I ordered online and I like that they offer a two protein option. I chose the pork and chicken, in a large size. The meal also comes with a Fukujinzuke topping. The meal was enough for two people. The curry came in a separate container. This was nice as I can adjust how much curry to add. The curry had a mild flavor and I would try their spicy option next time. The pork and chicken were fried well, without too much oil and batter. Service was quick, my dish was waiting on the counter with my name on it and utensils included. read more

Curry Life - Large pork and chicken curry (to go) - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

I was sad when my favorite curry place was closed down for good, Ringerhut on saratoga ave. Like super sad. So this is a close second when I crave Japanese curry and am too lazy to make it myself q curry is good, not coco ichibanya good but good enough. The katsu can be a bit overcooked/dry it seems, not juicy. I'd give it 3.5/5 stars read more

Stopped by on a weekend with the intention of getting dessert at the Matcha Love spot in Mitsuwa. I recommend getting everything at Medium level spice and adding the spice powder slowly. The spice does build up over time. Chicken Karaage - On point, definitely NOT bite sized Curry Rice - I'd stick with this, very SAFE choice Curry Udon - Not a fan, imagine diluted curry from the rice Anyways, I defintely recommend y'all stop by and grab their curry rice when you're in the area. read more

I been to the Santa Clara location but can say this one is slightly better if you want pure curry. This location does not have the customization/add-ons like at the Santa Clara location. I would say the San Jose location has more depth and flavor with their curry. I got the curry udon with pork katsu and extra tofu nuggets. I absolutely loved the tofu nuggets and highly recommend ordering them. They make it fresh to order so you have to wait a bit. read more

Updating a review since we still love curry life after trying other places around. Service is always so fast and portions are very generous. Their curry is warm and savory ( not too sweet). Inside they still have the handful of tables and limited outdoor seating - it's probably down given the colder season read more

See all

If you are craving Japanese curry, this is an excellent restaurant to visit. The menu is simple: pick your base, your curry (beef or veggie), your spice level, and your meat. We are always on the lookout for vegetarian friendly restaurants, and were so excited to see a veggie curry option. The food was so good and absolutely hit the spot. The shrimp and chicken we had were very crispy and fresh. I had ordered medium spicy, but wish I had gone mild and added more spice as needed. There are seats inside and outside. You can order through a tablet at the front of the restaurant, and you'll get a number to take to your table. The restaurant is casual and cozy. Overall, we already can't wait to go back. read more

Curry Life - Fried shrimp veggie curry - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

We got here within 30 minutes of opening and it only had one other party dining and someone waiting for a takeout order. By the time we left all the seats were filled inside but the outside eats were still open. It was super cold outside though. I'd probably be stressed getting here during a busy time since it's a seat yourself place. Like other reviews say, you just order at an iPad. The curry was good tbh I probably liked it more than the other popular places that are in the area. I think Kitzuna is still my favorite though. But at least here they give you real plates The forks and cups are disposable though. read more

Curry Life - Chicken katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Got take out from here on a whim with the "well we gotta try it since folks have said it's good" But...Not sure what's so great about this place.. the curry is soooo watery, the katsu was meh, and I didn't quite understand the craze for the curry here. Glad we tried it but will pass in the future. read more

I went in the morning so it was pretty spacious and the staff was very friendly. The food was good but it was too much food for me and I ordered the regular size! read more

Curry Life - Plain Curry Udon Plain Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

tried this place for the first time a couple days ago because every time i'm in this plaza it smells so good! we came in at just the right time and our server was sooo attentive and nice. usually the pork cutlets i've had in the past were always dry and just okay, but the one here was very juicy and tender i was shocked lol! will be coming back here for sure, soo comforting on a cold day read more

Curry Life - Pork katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Friends and I ate here because it was one of the only restaurants still open for lunch after 2:30pm on a Sunday in the Mitsuwa shopping area. Pretty standard Japanese curry with 3 spice options, if you have a high spice tolerance then I'd say get the spicy bc the medium was pretty weak. Honestly though it wasn't anything special and the curry doesn't have any vegetables or fixings on its own, you'd have to pay for add ons. It was a filling meal and served its purpose but I don't see myself or my friends coming back here when this style of curry is easy to make at home and there are other food options to try in the area as long as we come a little earlier in the afternoon. read more

See all

My son and I were craving Japanese Curry the other day, so we drove to Curry Life. Plus, it was a bit rainy and chilly, so eating curry was a good option. We were happy, since there was a small table open and most of the tables were already occupied. We used the iPad to place our order. I ordered a regular Chicken Karaage Curry medium spicy. My son ordered a large Chicken Karaage Curry medium spicy. The Chivken Karaage was cooked just right and the curry was the right thickness and was very tasty. Medium spicy is a nice touch and gives the curry a bit of heat, which we both like. The difficult part is figuring-out which protein to order. We prefer the Chicken Karaage, but the Chicken Katsu is really good too. To be honest, you can't go wrong with whatever you decide to order. They ask their customers to bus their own trays, which appears to work. Let's be honest, it's not hard to do and it's just good common sense. The staff are always friendly and helpful. It's a fairly small restaurant, but they do a really good job. read more

See all

Super nice and fresh! My family's fav for a cold day! Great staff fresh. I highly recommend the veg base!

Good curry, great katsu. My recommendation is to come with a friend, order the shrimp and pork katsu curry, then split those two.

Good flavor curry here, but definitely a little on the salty side. Came here for a weekend lunch with a friend and we had a great time. You order through an iPad kiosk at the entrance, and seat yourself as well as bus your own dishes at the end. I tipped and it was about $20 ish which is a little on the pricy side too considering most of the restaurant is self serve. Katsu was nice and crispy, and the curry rice portion is quite generous! I was able to take about 3/8 of it home (a little under half) for another meal. I do wish it came with vegetables maybe, I think it would balance out the saltiness of the curry and tonkatsu. The pickles are kinda refreshing, but also a bit salty on the salty. Clean interior, and parking is a teensy bit packed, but the Mitsuwa plaza is always packed haha read more

Curry Life - Pork katsu Curry Rice - Japanese Curry Near Me - San Jose, California

Darling y'all have to give this place a shot. Best jap curry of all times. My #1 to go place whenever I donno what to eat. Trust me, u will French kiss their fired shrimp tempura :) read more

The curries are always on point and super tasty! The staff is also super friendly and the place feels quite cozy! A must-try if you're in the area! read more

Curry life was very good. I had the veggie curry with rice and was prepared very well. Good flavor. Good portion. Wait staff was excellent. read more

TL:DR - Flavorful curry, great tonktatsu, and quick service. I had stumbled upon this place after shopping at the Mitsuwa grocery market. Tucked around the corner next to a couple other restaurants you'll find Curry Life. You order at a kiosk, get your receipt and then wait for them to call your number. It's a pretty standard at Japanese curry places. I ordered the large beef curry with tonkatsu, and it really hit the spot! First off, they don't skimp out on the amount of tonkatsu or curry they give. I typically can crush any large order of curry, but this time around I had to save a little for the next day. The flavor of the beef curry wasn't quite what I expected but it was good. It fell more on the curry powder type of flavor profile rather than something savory or sweet. They added a little bit of spice to it which gives it a nice kick. The consistency is a bit thick, almost a little bit like a chili, which I like. Even though they had pre-cooked the tonkatsu, it had a nice crunch to it and wasn't dry at all. They also gave like 1.5 fillets of it, so I was extra stuffed. Also, don't worry about having to order the fujinzuke (the red pickles) separately, mine came with it. Overall, the Curry Life was a nice find and I'll probably return again in the future. read more

i love this place! i have no idea why the ratings are so low. the portion size is enough to fill you up but not being overly stuffed (my preferred way of eating). i think you can do no wrong, i always get medium spice! there is also barely any room but i have always been able to secure a table (surprisingly). i think this is the perfect stop to make before heading to the supermarket! read more

I have ordered take out from this place twice! Each time I have not been disappointed. The first time was awhile back, so I don't remember much details except that I really enjoyed the curry udon. This was through mobile pick up so super easy I recently went ordered take out for my boyfriend and me. When I got there around 7pm on a weekday, there was already a line (10 minutes). After I ordered, it took 20 minutes to for my food to come out. I got the extra spicy (3) chicken kaarage curry rice for him, and the medium katsu curry udon for me. They do not provide the Katsu sauce when ordering take out, so you have to go to their to-go station and pick up it up, as well as chili powder and other items. Unfortunately, by the time I got home, the Katsu was a little soggy and not as crispy. my boyfriend said the kaarage was still crispy. My boyfriend loves spicy food and he said the extra spicy was SOOO SPICY! I ordered the medium and it was pretty spicy for me, but it was bearable. The kaarage curry comes with pickled radish but the udon did not. the portions are also HUGE. my boyfriend said we could have shared an entree and had a little side of something instead of getting two things. they both did not come with veggies so we made some to go with our meal. overall, id definitely come here again! Same plaza at mitsuwa and other Japanese markets! read more

The chairs appear to be assembled incorrectly with the posts in front of the backrests, making these the least comfortable chairs I've ever been in. read more