Meibutsu Bandai Soba (Bus Center Curry)
Founded in 1973. The 'Bus Center Curry' from this standing-soba shop on the 1st floor of Bandai City Bus Center is Niigata's ultimate soul food: a yellow curry fragrant with spice. It sells 1,000+ portions on weekdays and 1,200+ on weekends. Gained national fame on TV show 'Matsuko's Unknown World'. Mini curry 430 yen (as of 2024). Takeout available; retort version sold nationwide.
Customers say: 'A must-eat every time I come to Niigata.' 'Niigata doesn't feel right without this yellow curry.' 'Everyone raised in Niigata has eaten it at least once.' Its 2,869 Tabelog reviews testify to its popularity. Featured on Niigata City's official tourism guide.