Champion's Curry Pasadena

champion's curry

For Californians craving the rich, savory, and deeply satisfying flavors of authentic Japanese curry, Champion's Curry Pasadena offers a truly exceptional experience. Hailing from Kanazawa, Japan, where it originated in 1961, Champion's Curry brings its unique "Kanazawa-style" curry to the heart of Pasadena. This spot is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates hearty, comforting Japanese cuisine that's both familiar and distinctively delicious. Many customers feel instantly transported back to Japan with their first bite, making it a beloved spot for both curry connoisseurs and curious foodies alike.

Champion's Curry is more than just a quick meal; it's a taste of Japanese culinary heritage. Their dedication to the original secret recipe, combined with fresh American ingredients, creates a fast-casual dining experience that is both convenient and remarkably satisfying. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, Champion's Curry in Pasadena is poised to become your new favorite for Japanese curry.

Champion's Curry Pasadena is conveniently located at 20 Union St #120, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA. This address places it within the bustling and desirable Old Pasadena area, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors. Union Street is a well-known thoroughfare, putting the restaurant in a vibrant commercial district. Parking in Old Pasadena can sometimes be a challenge, and customer reviews note that parking is very limited with no free street parking directly adjacent. However, there are paid parking options available; for instance, the parking structure associated with One Colorado (nearby) offers the first hour free for pick-up orders, and there's often paid parking in garages throughout Old Pasadena. Despite limited immediate parking, its central location makes it a worthwhile destination, especially for those who don't mind a short walk after finding a spot.

Champion's Curry Pasadena specializes in serving their signature Kanazawa-style Japanese curry, offering a focused menu that excels in its core offerings. Here's what you can expect:

• Authentic Kanazawa-Style Curry: Their curry boasts an "incredible richness, both in texture and flavor," true to its origins in Kanazawa, Japan. The curry sauce contains beef, pork, fish, and dairy, providing a deep umami profile.
• Variety of Curry Bowls:
  • Chicken Katsu Curry Rice Bowl: Featuring panko-breaded chicken thigh, a popular and highly praised option for its juiciness and crispy coating.
  • Pork Katsu Curry Rice Bowl: Made with panko-breaded pork loin, offering a rich and satisfying protein.
  • Hamburg Steak Curry Rice Bowl: A unique offering with an American Wagyu hamburg steak, providing a different texture and flavor profile.
  • Fish Katsu Curry Rice Bowl: Panko-breaded white fish, offering a lighter katsu option.
  • Kara-Age Curry Rice Bowl: Bite-sized Japanese fried chicken served with curry, combining two popular Japanese comfort foods.
  • Plain Curry Rice Bowl: For those who simply want to savor the authentic curry sauce and rice, served with Fukujinzuke pickles.
  • Vegan Curry Rice Bowl: A plant-based option with an onion and kidney bean vegan curry sauce, ensuring that vegetarian and vegan diners can also enjoy their authentic flavors.
• Delicious Side Dishes:
  • Japanese Style Kara-Age: Bite-sized fried chicken, praised as "good too" by customers, served as a standalone side.
  • Steak Cut Fries: Classic fries available in various sizes.
  • Curry Cheese Fries: A popular fusion side, combining steak cut fries with curry sauce, cheese sauce, and chives.
  • Egg Macaroni Salad: A creamy and comforting side dish with elbow macaroni pasta, hard-boiled eggs, celery, and chives in a mayonnaise and yellow mustard dressing.
• Kid's Meal: A "Champion's Kid's Box" is available, featuring Karaage, Fries, and a choice of sauces, making it family-friendly.
• Beverages: A selection of drinks including Coke, Diet Coke, Bottled Water, Barley Tea, and Kimino Yuzu.
• Limited Dine-In Seating: The restaurant has "only about 8 dine in seats," meaning seating is very limited.
• Robust Take-Out Service: Most patrons opt for takeout due to the limited seating, and the restaurant is well-equipped for this, ensuring quality even for to-go orders.
• Online Ordering & Delivery: Available through platforms like Toast, Grubhub, and Uber Eats, providing convenient options for enjoying their curry from home.

Champion's Curry Pasadena stands out with several distinct features:

• Authentic Kanazawa-Style Curry: The core appeal lies in its unique and rich Japanese curry, a style less common than others in the US, making it a special find for curry enthusiasts.
• "Made Me Feel Like I Was Back in Osaka": This powerful testimonial highlights the authenticity and immersive quality of their curry, providing a genuine taste of Japan.
• Consistently Delicious Food: Customers repeatedly praise the "delicious Japanese curry" and specific items like the "Chicken Katsu," "burger," and "fish," indicating a high standard across the menu.
• Juicy Meats: The various katsu and burger options are noted for their "juicy" meat, complementing the rich curry sauce.
• Excellent Kara-Age: The Japanese fried chicken side is highlighted as "good too," adding another popular item to their offerings.
• Good Service: Despite being a fast-casual spot, the "service was very good" and staff are described as "super friendly."
• Fast Wait Times: Even with limited seating, customers report that "the wait was not long at all," making it efficient for a quick meal.
• Cozy Vibe: Despite its small size, the place has a "lovely vibe," creating a pleasant atmosphere for the few dine-in guests.
• Vegan Option Available: The inclusion of a dedicated "Vegan Curry Rice Bowl" makes it accessible to a wider range of dietary preferences.

Champion's Curry Pasadena occasionally offers promotions, particularly around its opening or during city-wide dining events. While ongoing, regular discounts are not typically highlighted, here are examples of past or potential offers:

• Dine LA Restaurant Week Participation: Champion's Curry has been a participant in events like Dine LA Restaurant Week, offering special set menus at competitive prices (e.g., Lunch for $15, Dinner for $15). This provides an excellent opportunity to try their dishes.
• Opening Promotions: Upon its initial opening, Champion's Curry offered special deals, such as a "25% discount on a second meal when you buy one meal," to attract new customers. While these are often limited-time, it shows they may offer similar incentives in the future.

For the most current information on any promotions, it's always best to check their official website, their online ordering platforms (like Toast, Grubhub, or Uber Eats), or their social media channels, as these offers can be seasonal or time-sensitive.

Ready to savor an authentic bowl of Kanazawa-style Japanese curry?

• Address: 20 Union St #120, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
• Phone: (626) 345-5147

For Californians, especially those in the Pasadena area, Champion's Curry offers a unique and highly satisfying Japanese dining experience. Its focus on authentic "Kanazawa-style" curry, a rich and distinctive flavor profile, sets it apart from other Japanese eateries. The consistent praise for its "delicious Japanese curry" and juicy katsu options highlights its dedication to quality and flavor, making it a reliable choice for a hearty meal.

While dine-in seating is limited, the excellent and friendly service, coupled with quick wait times, makes it incredibly convenient for both dine-in (if you snag a seat) and especially for takeout. Many locals appreciate the option to grab a high-quality, authentic Japanese meal on the go. The ability to "feel like I was back in Osaka" speaks to the authentic experience it provides, making Champion's Curry Pasadena an ideal spot for any local craving a comforting, flavorful, and truly Japanese curry fix.

Champion's Curry Pasadena

20 Union St #120, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA