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Chiyoda

Santosham is praised for its authentic South Indian cuisine, particularly Kerala specialties like Meals and Dosa. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service enhance the dining experience. Some reviewers note the popularity of the restaurant, suggesting early arrival or reservations to avoid long waits.

Discover Santosham: Authentic South Indian Flavors in Tokyo's Chiyoda District 

Tucked away in the vibrant neighborhood of Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda, Santosham offers a cozy culinary retreat for food lovers craving authentic South Indian cuisine in the heart of Tokyo. Revered by locals and travelers alike, this modest yet inviting restaurant specializes in Kerala-style meals and dosas that deliver a true taste of Southern India with every bite.

From the moment you step into Santosham, you’ll appreciate its clean, intimate setting that accommodates around 18 guests, perfect for savoring a peaceful meal. The friendly staff deliver attentive service, making you feel welcomed as you explore the rich flavors prepared by skilled chefs deeply familiar with South Indian culinary traditions.

Signature Dishes That Transport Your Palate

Santosham’s menu shines with classic South Indian specialties. The crispy, golden Masala Dosa and Egg Dosa are standouts, featuring perfectly cooked crepes with flavorful, savory fillings that strike a balance between crispy and soft textures. For a unique treat, try their prawn dish wrapped in fragrant banana leaves — a delightful surprise that highlights the chefs' mastery of regional flavors.

 is the heart of Santosham’s kitchen, with dishes reminiscent of those from South India and Sri Lanka, prepared with care and expert use of traditional spices.

Plan Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go

Santosham is a sought-after destination, especially during lunch hours, so arriving early or making a reservation is wise to avoid long waits. The restaurant is located on the second floor, accessible via stairs, and accepts credit cards for your convenience. Be sure to arrive before 2:15 PM if visiting for lunch, as last orders are taken at 3 PM. Dinner service runs from 5:30 PM to 10 PM, with last orders at 9 PM. The establishment is closed on Mondays.

Is Santosham a halal-friendly restaurant?

 Yes, Santosham offers dishes prepared with halal meat upon request.

What are the operating hours of Santosham?

 Santosham operates Tuesday to Sunday, with lunch from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM (last order 3:00 PM) and dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM (last order 9:00 PM). It is closed on Mondays.

Does Santosham accept credit card payments?

 Yes, they accept major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, JCB, and AMEX.

Santosham has garnered a generally positive reputation for its authentic flavors and warm atmosphere. Guests especially praise the Kerala-style meals and the expertly crafted dosas, with many noting the welcoming service that makes each visit special. While some reviewers mention the need for early arrival due to popularity, the consensus highlights Santosham as a must-visit gem for South Indian cuisine enthusiasts in Tokyo.

Cozy ambiance with attentive and friendly staff.

Authentic South Indian dosas and Kerala-style meals.

Popular spot with potential wait times; reservations recommended.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the vibrant district of Chiyoda, Tokyo, Santosham offers a captivating culinary journey into authentic South Indian cuisine. This modest yet charming restaurant is renowned for its traditional flavors, warm atmosphere, and a menu that promises an immersive experience for food lovers seeking genuine regional dishes. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of spices and freshly cooked dosas transports you to the bustling streets of South India, making Santosham a must-visit for those craving a taste of Indian heritage in Japan.

Explore Santosham's authentic South Indian menu

Santosham is celebrated for its meticulously prepared dishes that showcase the rich flavors of South India. The menu features an array of traditional favorites, each crafted with authentic spices and ingredients. Two standout dishes that exemplify the culinary excellence here are the crispy Masala Dosa and the flavorful Egg Dosa. The Masala Dosa boasts a perfect balance of crunch and softness, filled with seasoned potatoes that melt in your mouth, complemented by tangy chutneys. The Egg Dosa offers a savory twist, with a fluffy pancake topped with a seasoned egg mixture, delivering a hearty and satisfying bite.

The story of Santosham dates back to its dedication to preserving authentic South Indian culinary traditions. The chefs, many of whom have trained in India, bring generations of expertise to each dish. An interesting behind-the-scenes fact is how the kitchen maintains its authenticity — ingredients are sourced directly from India, and traditional cooking techniques are meticulously followed, ensuring each plate served is a true reflection of regional flavors. This dedication to authenticity is what makes Santosham a standout in Tokyo’s diverse culinary scene.

 Santosham is renowned for its authentic South Indian dishes, especially dosas and curries, crafted with traditional spices and techniques.

 To enjoy authentic South Indian flavors in a cozy setting, complemented by a menu that highlights regional specialties and a commitment to quality.

Modest restaurant serving traditional South Indian specialties, plus imported wine & beer.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfamZMLVhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsw2B-mqNGGARnGg5qLOjwFk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfamZMLVhBEAE

Extremely average and disappointing place, in my opinion does not deserve that Bib Gourmand from Michelin. We waited for almost an hour in line for “weekend lunch” tiffin meals. The price was ¥2100 which is a 75% up charge of the weekday ¥1200 lunch, but since the photos of the meals look drastically different in the menu I had no issue with it at first being promised a more substantial meal. After a long wait on the narrow stairs, our orders were taken in advance I wanted to order the banana leaf curry but it was sold out.

We sat down, and it was clean inside. The hall staff were Japanese, they were fine. The cooks were Indian so I trust that will get authentic Indian flavors.

Upon receiving the tiffin thali, I was extremely let down. Now some of you might question me at this point but let me tell as a chef who has worked at a fine Indian restaurant for a year I think I earned my right to speak about this place. The reality vs the menu picture is like night and day. They swapped out the photo of the weekday lunch so they can up charge by 75%? That is so un-Japanese! And for them to get a Michelin recognition, they should be honest. I can accept a 30 to 50% mark up but please use the same weekday lunch photo and don’t scam your customers.

The food - taste ranged from bland to spicy. The batura fried bread was good, the sambar and rassam were textbook, the rice too free flow which is nice but clumpy not fluffy like good basmati should be, the chicken curry was yummy but tad watery, the fish and vegetable curry were very diluted and bland. I’ve read some negative reviews they all said the curry here is watery and they were right. There were hardly any veggies and one tiny pitiful piece of fish in those curries (soup).

I felt really duped and disappointed. I wanted to like this place but i cannot recommend this place. Lesson for me: trust the reviews left by real Indians (I thought they were fake reviews from rival restaurants 😂)

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYejdqbXR3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsw2B-mqNGGARnGg5qLOjwFk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYejdqbXR3RRAB

Santosham in Ochanamizu is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic South Indian cuisine. This popular spot offers a delightful culinary experience that transports you straight to the heart of India.

I had the pleasure of trying their Masala Dosa and Egg Dosa, both of which were absolutely delicious. The dosas were perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The fillings were flavorful and complemented the dosa beautifully.

We also indulged in a special prone dish wrapped in banana leaves, which was a delightful surprise. The unique combination of flavors and textures was a true highlight of our meal.

The taste of the food at Santosham is incredibly authentic, reminiscent of what you would find in South India or neighboring Sri Lanka. It's clear that the chefs have a deep understanding of the regional cuisine and take great care in preparing each dish.

A word of caution: Santosham is extremely popular, especially during lunch hours. If you're planning to visit for lunch, be sure to arrive before 14:15 as they may not be able to take orders after that time. For dinner, reservations are recommended.

Overall, Santosham is a fantastic restaurant that offers a truly memorable dining experience. The food is exceptional, the atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is friendly. If you're looking for a taste of South India in Tokyo, Santosham is definitely worth a visit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfall6eG53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsw2B-mqNGGARnGg5qLOjwFk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfall6eG53RRAB

I went to this restaurant expecting authentic and delicious South Asian food because of the Michelin recommendation and the high Google rating. We ordered a few dishes and only one of those was average, the rest were below average. Compared to other Indian restaurants in Tokyo, prices were nearly double. However, the service was top-tier and the restaurant itself was peaceful.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNadElIUlRnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsw2B-mqNGGARnGg5qLOjwFk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNadElIUlRnEAE

🍛I had the C set curry with Dosa and chai- 1400 yen
🍛lunch last order 15:00! it's a small restaurant that seats about 18 max so you may need to arrive early or call ahead.
⚠️Cash only
🚸I didn't see an elevator so you might only have the option to use stairs. It's on 2F.

The dosa was delicious and nostalgic. The 2 soups were just okay but I really loved the 3 curries.
The tomato one had the familiar flavor of  paneer tikka masala. It was mild and well-balanced. I enjoyed the hints of mixed masala spices and ginger.
The yellow curry had a delicious and refreshing corriander and coconut milk flavor that I could eat forever. The chicken piece that I got was tasty and not too fatty!
The last curry was quite spicy! I was impressed and satisfied as this restaurant doesn't advertise itself as particularly spicy or ask about your preferred spice level. It tasted like American chili to me. Even though the size of the curries are small, this one was so hearty, I was able to leave satisfied.
The chai was delicious, it's worth ordering just to watch them pour and foam the tea by hand. I wanted just a little more cinnamon and spice flavor though.

If you want more rice, you can get a free refill! 🥹

One thing that I wished for was a dosa filled with peas and potatoes. 👀
Although it could be on their dinner menu, I have only checked lunch.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzcExfZk1BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJsw2B-mqNGGARnGg5qLOjwFk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzcExfZk1BEAE

We travelled 45 min each way to experience this Michelin starred restaurant on our trip to Japan.
We have been to many Michelin starred and recommended restaurants and were expecting the quality we have come to know.
Restaurant was very clean and the service was good. However, the food was average at best. The lamb curry was do spicy hot that it was rendered inedible. The prawn curry had three small shrimps and the masala dosa and the sambar was cold with minimal amounts of potato in it.
We think Michelin got it wrong here.

Authentic South Indian Dining at Santosham, Chiyoda, Tokyo

Santosham, meaning 'happiness' in Malayalam, is a South Indian restaurant located in Chiyoda, Tokyo. It specializes in Kerala cuisine, offering dishes like Meals and Dosa. The restaurant has been recognized in the Michelin Guide and is known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance.

Santosham: A Culinary Journey of South Indian Happiness in Tokyo

Nestled in the vibrant district of Chiyoda, Tokyo, Santosham is an acclaimed South Indian restaurant that brings the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine to Japan's capital. The name 

 means “happiness” in Malayalam, perfectly capturing the warm and inviting atmosphere that patrons experience. Known for its authentic Kerala specialties like Meals and Dosa, Santosham has garnered recognition for its dedication to delivering genuine South Indian flavors in a cozy setting.

Santosham was established in 2019 in the heart of Chiyoda, quickly becoming a beloved destination for lovers of South Indian and Kerala cuisine. From its inception, the restaurant focused on crafting traditional dishes that honor the culinary heritage of India’s southern state, combining authentic spices and cooking techniques with fresh ingredients. Its intimate size and welcoming service made it an ideal spot for both locals and travelers seeking an immersive dining experience.

In 2022, Santosham’s dedication to authentic flavors and quality earned it a prestigious spot on the Tabelog Asian and Ethnic Cuisine TOKYO 'Hyakumeiten' list, marking it as one of the standout ethnic restaurants in the city. This recognition highlighted Santosham’s growing reputation among Tokyo’s diverse culinary scene.

Further cementing its status, in 2024, Santosham was honored with the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award. This accolade celebrated the restaurant’s exceptional quality and value, spotlighting it as a must-visit destination for foodies craving genuine South Indian cuisine within Tokyo.

Santosham’s menu features iconic dishes such as the 

, and special prawn dishes wrapped in banana leaves — all crafted with a deep respect for authentic South Indian ingredients and cooking methods. The careful balance of spices, use of traditional recipes, and the warm hospitality offered by both the Indian chefs and Japanese staff create an unforgettable culinary adventure.

 made with traditional spices and ingredients representing the heart of South India.

 from the Michelin Guide highlighting excellent value and quality.

 perfect for authentic dining experiences in Tokyo’s bustling Chiyoda district.

Given its popularity, Santosham often experiences high demand, especially during lunch hours. To secure a spot, it’s wise to arrive before the last order time or make a reservation for dinner. The restaurant is located on the second floor and does not have an elevator, so be prepared for stairs. While the menu focuses on lunch and dinner, the diversity of curries and thalis available ensures a rich taste of South Indian culinary tradition. Payment options include NFC and debit cards, making it convenient for visitors.

Authentic South Indian cuisine featuring Kerala specialties like Meals, Dosa, and Prawn Banana Leaf Curry.

Meals

Dosa

Prawn Banana Leaf Curry

Beef Fry

Mysore Bonda

Santosham Menu

Discover the authentic flavors of South India at Santosham, nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Chiyoda district. This inviting restaurant specializes in traditional Kerala cuisine, offering a vibrant menu that promises a memorable culinary journey for food lovers and adventurers alike.

Santosham's menu is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the rich, diverse tastes of South Indian cooking, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold spices. Whether you're craving a hearty meal or a light starter, each dish reflects the authentic spirit of Indian cuisine with an inviting Tokyo twist.

, a thin, crispy crepe made from rice and lentil flour, expertly prepared to perfection. Its delicate texture and subtle flavors make it an irresistible starter that embodies the essence of South India.

For a fulfilling main course, indulge in 

, featuring a wholesome combination of rice, curry, vegetables, and lentils, offering a balanced and satisfying taste experience.

 is a highlight for seafood enthusiasts, presenting succulent prawns cooked with aromatic spices and wrapped in fragrant banana leaves to infuse a unique depth of flavor.

, another savory favorite, offers tender beef seasoned with a blend of spices, delivering a robust and hearty taste that complements the other dishes beautifully.

 offers a delightful conclusion to your meal with its soft, spiced yogurt and flour-based fritters that embody the sweet and savory balance beloved in South Indian desserts.

Complement your meal with imported wines and beers carefully selected to pair with the complex flavors of Santosham's dishes. The restaurant also features special menu items that occasionally showcase unique regional recipes, ensuring every visit offers something new to discover.

 with careful preparation by skilled chefs.

 from crispy dosas to rich curries and desserts.

 perfect for a casual lunch or dinner in Tokyo.

Discover Santosham in Chiyoda, Tokyo—a delightful restaurant offering authentic flavors in a charming atmosphere. Experience Japan's culinary delights!

Santosham: Authentic Restaurant in Chiyoda, Tokyo

Chiyoda Municipality

Santosham

Offers dishes prepared with halal meat upon request.

Halal Options

Vegetarian Options

Allows customers to order food for take-out.

Take-Out Service

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda City, Santosham offers a culinary escape to the rich and diverse tastes of South India. This modest yet beloved restaurant is celebrated for its dedication to traditional South Indian specialties, skillfully crafted by Indian chefs, providing an authentic dining experience just steps away from Tokyo's bustling streets.

Santosham is well-known for its crispy, perfectly cooked dosas — from the classic Masala Dosa to the flavorful Egg Dosa — each filled with authentic, savory ingredients. Diners rave about the distinctive prawn dish wrapped in banana leaves, a delightful highlight that brings an exotic touch to the menu. Alongside these, the restaurant serves a variety of curries, including mild tomato-based paneer tikka masala, refreshing coriander and coconut milk yellow curry, and a spicy, hearty chili-inspired curry that excites the palate without overwhelming it.

 – Dishes prepared with halal meat are available upon request, accommodating diverse dietary needs.

 – A variety of fresh and flavorful vegetarian dishes are offered, celebrating the rich vegetarian tradition of South Indian cuisine.

 – Ideal for those craving South Indian comfort food on the go.

This cozy eatery accommodates around 18 guests, and due to its growing popularity, especially during lunch hours, arriving early is recommended to avoid waiting. The restaurant is located on the 2nd floor and accessed by stairs, so plan accordingly if you have mobility concerns. Reservations are advisable for dinner service to secure your spot.

 – Accepts debit cards and NFC payments, making transactions smooth and convenient.

 – Enjoy imported wine, beer, and freshly brewed chai tea prepared with care, a perfect complement to your meal.

Experience Authenticity with a Few Considerations

While most guests praise the authenticity and flavors reminiscent of South India, some have noted that certain dishes can vary in spice level and portion size. It's worth noting that the restaurant maintains a peaceful and clean atmosphere with attentive service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Planning your visit ahead of peak hours and making reservations can help you fully savor what Santosham has to offer without the wait.

Santosham is a destination for food lovers seeking genuine South Indian cuisine in Tokyo, blending tradition, flavor, and a warm ambiance that invites you back again and again.

Tokyo Metropolis

Experience true Kerala flavors at Santosham in Tokyo's Chiyoda. Enjoy authentic Dosa, Meals, and Prawn Curry in a cozy, Michelin-recognized restaurant.

Santosham Tokyo - Authentic South Indian Cuisine in Chiyoda

Taste genuine South Indian dishes like Masala Dosa and Prawn Curry at Santosham in Tokyo Chiyoda. Book your culinary journey now!

Santosham Tokyo - Best Kerala Dosa & Curry Near Tokyo Station

Santosham offers vegetarian and halal South Indian meals in Tokyo. Enjoy flavorful Kerala specialties in a warm ambiance today.

Authentic South Indian Dining at Santosham, Chiyoda, Tokyo

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