[KATSU Curry] The huge portions of curry at Shukuria, a restaurant loved in Shonan and Fujisawa for over 50 years, were amazing.

The shop is located just a few minutes’ walk from the north exit of Fujisawa Station, in a back alley that still retains a strong Showa-era vibe. This time, I visited Curry Shop Shukuria, which is famous as a mecca for large portions. I went there by motorcycle.

I ordered the pork cutlet curry, medium portion, topped with a fried egg, which I had already decided on. I waited for a few minutes, watching the chef’s skillful movements across the counter. What appeared before my eyes was no longer a plate, but a mountain.

■ Stunning visuals: The true nature of a medium-sized portion Shukria’s “regular” serving is already 500g (more than a large serving at other restaurants), but this “medium” portion is an astounding 750g. The base of the mountain-high pile of rice is covered in a generous amount of jet-black roux. Atop it all sits a freshly fried cutlet and a jiggly fried egg. A veritable “fortress of curry.” The cutlet is topped with a separate serving of curry.

■ A nostalgic, deep flavor With just one bite, the rich flavor of the roux, which has been simmered until the ingredients lose their shape, spreads throughout your mouth. While claiming to be “home-cooked flavor,” the restaurant also boasts a professional flavor with a strong kick of spices. The cutlet is thinly coated with thick pork. Because it’s so voluminous, the texture is not compromised. Adding a cracked fried egg yolk and mixing it with the thick, creamy rice adds a blissful, mellow flavor that will have you eating your spoonful non-stop.

■ Excellent supporting actors on the table When you start to feel overwhelmed by the 750g of rice halfway through the meal, your saviors are the three side dishes placed on the table (fukujinzuke pickles, pickled cabbage, and onions pickled in olive oil). The pickled onions in particular have a crunchy texture and just the right amount of acidity, which resets your mouth.

■ Overall review After finishing the meal, I was overcome with an incredible sense of accomplishment and happiness. The reason this restaurant has been loved in Fujisawa for so many years is encapsulated in its flavor and generous portions. Hungry brave souls, please try and challenge this “medium-sized wall”! (Personally, I think the large portion might be too much… it’s 1kg after all.)