Soup curry is now known nationwide as a local delicacy of Sapporo. Its prototype is said to have been created in the 1970s, but it was Magic Spice that launched it under the name "soup curry" in the 1990s, firmly establishing its name. Many fans still visit today. How did this deep flavor, considered the origin of soup curry, come to be?

As the creator of soup curry, it has been featured in various media. Many people may have seen its name on "soup curry base" products sold in supermarkets. The main branch is located just off Nango-dori, near Nango-nanachome Station on the Tozai subway line. Its landmark is a flashy exterior that suddenly appears in a quiet residential area lined with apartments. The interior is just as dazzling, with a brilliant and ethnic decor that will captivate you.

Photos of celebrities who have visited are displayed at the storefront.

The origin of Magic Spice's flavor is "Soto Ayam," a chicken soup that the owner, Taizan Shimomura, encountered during his travels in Southeast Asia. He was so impressed by its spicy and simple taste that he arranged it in a Japanese style, which was the beginning. Mr. Shimomura was born into a family of doctors, which led him to focus on the concept of "food and health are of the same origin." He offers a bowl that is low in oil and salt and packed with ingredients.

"Hokkeido" for 1,500 yen. It's packed with ingredients and very satisfying.

The most popular dish at the main branch is "Hokkeido." In addition to standard soup curry ingredients like a chicken leg, pumpkin, and carrots, it's filled with a variety of vegetables. It's also packed with corn, beans, and rice flour noodles, making it incredibly rich.

Furthermore, no oil or salt is used in its preparation. While it has a light taste, the deep richness drawn from the generous ingredients is irresistible. You can truly feel the "depth" unique to Magic Spice's curry.

"Frank Nagai" with a sausage containing alpine leek, for 1,450 yen.

To order, you first choose your curry, then select either the basic chicken-based soup or a tomato-based soup. You can choose from seven spice levels, with names like "Awakening," "Meditation," "Agony," and "Nirvana." You can also choose from nearly 50 toppings. The spice levels are designed not just to be hot, but to be a "delicious" kind of spicy, so many people say, "Even if I'm not good with spicy food, I can eat at Magic Spice."

The rice comes with a piece of pineapple. Its sweet and sour taste provides a refreshing feeling after the meal.

On the table, you'll find "Magic Vinegar," a unique blend of lemon, lime, and vinegar, which adds a refreshing and mellow touch. Adding the special garam masala "Miracle Spice" enhances the spice sensation. Adding "Holy Spice," a blend of five types of chili, makes it even hotter. It's impressive how you can enjoy it with free customization and how the flavor profile changes as you eat.

At the top of the stairs to the second floor is a corner selling miscellaneous goods. An alien figurine is the landmark.

On the second floor, there is a corner selling miscellaneous goods and clothing from Southeast Asia. The items, packed tightly together, are all sourced locally, so you might find a rare treasure you can't easily get in Japan.

In a corner of the second floor are related goods like Snow Miku. They also had a Snow Miku collaboration in 2024.

A major feature of Magic Spice is that it introduces a wide variety of cultures throughout the entire establishment, not just through its soup curry. Be sure to visit the shop and experience the culture of "Magic Spice" for yourself.

Magic Spice Sapporo Main Branch

■Address: 6-2, Hongo-dori 8-chome Minami, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo ■Hours:
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (L.O.), 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM (L.O.)
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (L.O.)
■Closed: Wednesdays, Thursdays
Click here for details and map information for "Magic Spice Sapporo Main Branch"

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