Hinoya Curry is opening across from UC Berkeley at 2512 Bancroft Way, according to a building permit filed with the city of Berkeley. Owner Thomas Urehara confirmed that they will likely open in January 2022, telling What Now San Francisco that he previously disclosed the expansion to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Hinoya Curry originally debuted on American soil in February 2021 at 3347 Fillmore St. in San Francisco to much fanfare. It was because of this success that Uehara quickly made the move to open a shop in Berkeley, where there will be counter-style seating, takeout and delivery.
The fast-casual restaurant is expected to serve a menu similar to what is available at the San Francisco location. Berkeley customers can expect Pork or Chicken Katsu Curry, Karaage Curry, Ebi Fry Curry and more, alongside a selection of Japanese beers and sakes.
Hinoya Curry is a wildly popular Japanese chain with over 60 locations concentrated in the Tokyo area. They’re known for their distinctly sweeter, beef-based curry recipe originating from founder Masaru Hiura’s grandmother.
In Japan, where the curry shop market is relatively saturated, Hinoya Curry has earned its stripes by winning the 2013 “Curry Grand Prix” in Tokyo’s Kanda district, according to Eater SF. Uehara is the CEO of Zash Corporation, which owns exclusive rights to the U.S. market for Hinoya Curry.
