Katchar Batchar:

Michelin Bib Gourmand Indian Gem in Otsuka

Curry and naan from Katchar Batchar

April 12, 2025

For food lovers familiar with the Michelin Guide, you might already know to look for the Bib Gourmand—an award that highlights high-quality food at reasonable prices. These spots often require a little extra effort to reach, but as the designation suggests, they're well worth the trip. One such restaurant is Katchar Batchar, a cozy Indian restaurant located in Minami-Otsuka, just a short walk from both the Yamanote Line (Otsuka Station) and Marunouchi Line (Minamiotsuka Station).

You might not have Indian food on your Tokyo dining list—but if you're open to branching out from sushi and tonkatsu, you'll quickly discover that Tokyo also offers some of the best non-Japanese cuisine in Asia.

The story behind Katchar Batchar is just as flavorful as its menu. Founder Tamura Shuji first worked at an Indian restaurant in Shinjuku before spending time traveling through India, Nepal, and Thailand, where he fell in love with the diverse flavors and spices of South Asian cuisine. After returning to Japan, he honed his skills for another decade before opening Katchar Batchar—his own take on Indian food, rooted in tradition but open to creative exploration. That spirit of playfulness and authenticity has earned the restaurant a loyal following and a seat in the Bib Gourmand lineup.

Tucked away on the second floor of a modest building, the space is small and intimate, so reservations are essential. You can book through their website, but note that a Japanese phone number is required to complete the reservation.

Menu Highlights and How to Plan Your Visit

While everything I’ve tried here has been outstanding, my go-to order is the butter chicken curry, naan, and a fresh lime soda—a perfectly balanced combo I keep coming back to.

Whether you're a devoted fan of Indian cuisine or simply a curious foodie looking to explore the breadth of Tokyo's culinary excellence beyond the usual suspects, Katchar Batchar delivers. It's a delicious, high-quality experience that wholeheartedly earns its Bib Gourmand status, making the essential step of booking ahead well worth the effort. Although they serve both lunch and dinner, the warm, intimate ambiance makes it particularly well-suited for a relaxing dinner.

Planning your itinerary? Its convenient location near both Shin-Otsuka Station (on the Marunouchi Line) and Otsuka Station (on the JR Yamanote Line) makes it an easy and rewarding dinner destination. Consider stopping by after a day exploring areas like Ginza or Tokyo Station (easily accessible via the Marunouchi Line), or after an afternoon in nearby Ikebukuro or even Shinjuku (just a few stops away on the Yamanote Line). It's a flavorful detour well worth making!

Local Tip: Reservations Booked? Use Uber Eats!

Since Katchar Batchar is available on Uber Eats, you can simply use the app to schedule a pickup order (takeaway) to grab yourself, OR get it delivered directly to your nearby hotel or apartment. A fantastic way to taste their famous food without needing a table!

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