Sawa — Restaurant in Dazaifu

A small, unassuming store, near the Dazaifu Tenmangu temple grounds, specializing in curry rice.

I had discovered this small store a while back and was eager to try it after visiting the temple in the morning. I ended up getting to the restaurant around 1:30PM, and it was pretty empty at first, but filled up quickly after.

The store itself is not too big, with table seating for about 14 or so, as well as a few seats at the counter they had.

The ambiance of the store was incredible - soft jazz and old rock music was playing, and the overall feel was like entering someone's living or dining room. The two hostesses were very enthusiastic with introducing the menu.

I got the curry rice set (with drink set) with both their curries, so I could sample both.

The Daizaifu curry was lighter and sweeter - tomato based, with shreds of chicken within. A bit sweet, a bit sour, but immensely satisfying and lower on the spice scale (at least for me)

The other curry is the dry keema - it was unlike any other curry I had tasted in Japan. Also tomato based, it was intensely spiced and deeply umami in taste. A bit of ground beef was mixed into the curry, and this one brought on the heat, though it was a slower, gradual burn (ended up around a 5/10 in terms of spice for me)

If you're visiting the Dazaifu Tenmangu temple and need a place for lunch, look no further than this spot. The food quality, ambiance of the location, as well as the friendliness + enthusiasm of the hostesses make this an easy...

Located a short walk away from the shrine.

Sawa delivers an unforgettable dining experience that combines authentic Japanese flavors with warm, personalized hospitality. From the moment you step in, the friendly host makes you feel right at home, creating an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and relaxed.

The star of the meal is undoubtedly the home-cooked curry rice. Each bite reflects the care and attention to detail that goes into preparing this dish. The curry is rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, with a hint of sweetness and spice that lingers pleasantly on the palate. The rice is cooked to perfection—light, fluffy, and a wonderful base to soak up the flavorful curry.

What truly sets Sawa apart is the host’s dedication to making every guest feel special, sharing stories about the dish and ensuring that everyone is comfortable and well-fed. It’s not just a meal but a heartfelt experience that showcases the soul of Japanese home cooking.

If you’re looking for delicious curry rice served with genuine care and warmth, Sawa is an absolute must-try. Highly...

A true hidden gem in Dazaifu! This small, family-run curry and rice shop completely stole my heart. Tucked away just a short walk from the main shrine area, it feels like one of those places only locals know about.

I had the chicken curry, and it was absolutely fantastic—tender, flavorful chicken in a rich, perfectly spiced sauce, served with fluffy rice and just the right balance of homemade sides. It was comforting, satisfying, and clearly made with love.

But what made it even more special was the warm hospitality. The family running the place welcomed me with genuine kindness, and it felt more like visiting someone’s home than a restaurant.

If you’re in Dazaifu and want something authentic, filling, and heartwarming, this place is a must. It’s one of those rare meals that stays with you long after...