I decided to try Sam’s Up after seeing how highly it was rated on Google. It isn’t the easiest place to find, as it’s tucked away inside a building and has a tiny storefront. However, once you locate the entrance, it’s pretty distinctive. I visited on a Saturday evening, so it was relatively quiet, though I was told that on weekdays it gets very crowded due to the surrounding office buildings.

I ordered their curry and rice with a hamburger patty and a side of French fries. The fries were excellent, with something extra sprinkled on them besides salt, and they were perfect when dipped into the curry sauce. They tasted either house-made or simply perfect—perhaps that’s just what fries are like in Japan.

The hamburger curry was delicious. In Japan, “hamburger” refers only to the meat patty, without a bun, and this one was very tender with a springy texture, as if the meat had been finely ground and then cooked. There were also chunks of onion mixed throughout, which added great flavour. The curry itself was the absolute highlight. It was clearly made in-house and had a deep, rich flavour. I could really taste the difference between a chef-made curry and one made from Japanese curry blocks. While they’re similar in style, this version was more intense and less sweet. They also added cheese on top of the curry, which I really enjoyed and may have to try next time I make Japanese curry at home.

I can definitely see why this place is so highly rated. The service was excellent, and the owner was very friendly and great to talk to. He’s been running the business for 22 years, and no, his name isn’t Sam. The name is actually a clever play on “two thumbs up.” If I get the chance, I’ll definitely come back to try some of their other curries.

Website: Two Sam’s up

Address: 〒541-0047 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Awajimachi, 3 Chome−6−12 ローズプラザ １F