A staple of Shinjuku gourmet, Nakamuraya has over 120 years of history. Here you can enjoy their legendary “Pure Indian-style Curry,” custard cream buns, and fluffy Chinese-style meat buns.
With cafes and even an art museum, it’s the perfect stop during your sightseeing or shopping in Shinjuku.
In this article, we’ll explore the many delights of Nakamuraya—from curry and steamed buns to their restaurant and art museum.
The History of Nakamuraya
Founded in 1901 in Hongo as a bakery, Nakamuraya later moved to Shinjuku, where it grew into a long-standing brand offering everything from bread and Japanese sweets to Western pastries, curry, and Chinese-style steamed buns.
In 2014, the building was renovated into a 10-floor complex (8 above ground, 2 below) that now includes restaurants, cafes, a museum, a beauty salon, esthetic services, and retail stores including COACH.
Signature Items at Nakamuraya
Since its founding, Nakamuraya has developed many beloved products and continues to uphold its traditional flavors and high quality.
Japan’s First Cream Bun Was Born Here
Nakamuraya was the first to create and sell custard cream buns in Japan. Inspired by French custard desserts, founders Aizo and Kokko Soma developed this bread in the Taisho era, helping shape Japan’s unique bread culture.
With a lightly crisp crust and fluffy interior filled with thick, smooth custard cream, it remains a favorite to this day.
Price: ¥270 (tax included).
Chinese-Style Steamed Buns
Nakamuraya’s steamed buns date back to early Showa, when they began producing them based on traditional Chinese techniques. They are considered pioneers of meat buns in Japan.
The soft, fluffy dough is filled with juicy pork and vegetables—distinctly richer in flavor than the average convenience store bun.
Price: ¥346 each (tax included), or ¥216 for small-sized buns.
The Legendary “Pure Indian-style Curry”
In 1927, Nakamuraya became the first in Japan to serve authentic Indian curry. Made with premium ingredients and served with rare white rice known as “Shirome-mai,” this dish uses rich spices to create a deep, savory flavor.
Shirome-mai was once prized by gourmets and noble families, including the Tokugawa shogunate, but disappeared from cultivation in 1938. It was revived in 1996 for Nakamuraya’s 70th curry anniversary.
Lunch sets start from ¥2,500; dinner from ¥5,000.
Restaurants & Cafes
8F Casual Dining “Granna”
Enjoy world cuisine with a Japanese twist and wine from across Japan in this stylish dining space produced by Nakamuraya.
• Hours: Mon–Sat 11:30–22:00 (L.O. 21:00) / Sun & Holidays 11:30–21:00 (L.O. 20:00)
7F Ethnic Dining “Shinjuku Rambutan”
Authentic Asian cuisine from Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Taiwan.
• Hours: Lunch 11:00–15:30 / Dinner Weekdays 17:30–23:00 / Weekends & Holidays 17:00–23:00
6F “KICHIRI MOLLIS”
A casual dining space where you can relax barefoot.
• Hours: Lunch 11:00–15:00 (L.O. 14:30) / Dinner 17:00–22:00 (L.O. 21:00)
3F Nakamuraya Salon Museum of Art
A museum featuring works from artists who gathered at Nakamuraya in the late Meiji and early Showa periods.
• Hours: 10:30–18:00 (Last admission: 17:40)
More about the museum here:
■Explore the Nakamuraya Salon Museum of Art
B1F Sweets & Delicatessen “Bonna”
From traditional Japanese sweets to curry bread and gourmet deli items, this is a great spot for unique Shinjuku souvenirs like their signature “Jukumaru Anpan.”
• Hours: 10:30–19:30
B2F Restaurant & Cafe “Manna”
Enjoy Nakamuraya’s classic Indian-style curry and traditional recipes in this flagship restaurant.
• Hours: Mon–Sat 11:00–22:00 (L.O. 21:30) / Sun & Holidays 11:00–21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Conclusion
With over 120 years of history, Nakamuraya is more than just a place to eat—it’s a cultural hub where you can enjoy curry, steamed buns, sweets, and even art.
Check out the latest info and make a stop during your Shinjuku adventure!
Written by Mami Matsuo, YOKOSO Shinjuku Editorial Team
Basic Information
| Store Name | Nakamuraya Main Store |
| Address | 3-26-13 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Nakamuraya Building) |
| Phone | 03-5362-7507 |
| Business Hours | 10:00–20:30 |
| Closed | January 1 |
| Access | 2-minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit Direct access from Exit A6 of Shinjuku Station on the Marunouchi Line |
*Note: Prices, menu items, hours, and holidays are subject to change. Please confirm directly with the store for the latest details.
