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# Daruma Sando – Katsu Sandwiches and Curry in Seattle, WA
Daruma Sando is a popular restaurant located in Seattle, WA, specializing in katsu sandwiches and Japanese curry. Known for its unique offerings and vibrant flavors, this eatery has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is operated by the same team behind Menya Musashi, ensuring a high-quality dining experience. With a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative recipes, Daruma Sando has garnered positive reviews for its flavorful dishes and friendly service. The inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality make it a must-visit spot in the city.

## History
### The story of Daruma Sando
Daruma Sando was founded with a vision to provide authentic Japanese katsu sandwiches and curry dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Japan. The founders aimed to create a casual dining experience where customers could enjoy high-quality, flavorful meals at an accessible price point. Drawing inspiration from their previous culinary ventures, they sought to introduce Seattle to the delightful world of katsu sandos, which are not only delicious but also a staple in Japanese cuisine.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a sister restaurant to Menya Musashi, known for its ramen.
- Quickly gained popularity for its unique katsu sandwich offerings.
- Expanded menu to include a variety of curry dishes and sides.
- Recognized for its innovative approach to traditional Japanese cuisine.
- Developed a loyal customer base through word-of-mouth and positive reviews.

### Cultural and local influence
Daruma Sando has made a significant impact on the local food scene in Seattle. By introducing authentic katsu sandwiches and curry, the restaurant has contributed to the growing appreciation for Japanese cuisine in the area. The eatery's focus on quality and flavor resonates with the community, fostering a sense of cultural exchange and culinary exploration. Additionally, its location near Gasworks Park makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the vibrant Fremont neighborhood.

### Continuing the tradition
The restaurant continues to uphold its founding vision by consistently delivering high-quality food and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. The team at Daruma Sando is dedicated to refining their recipes and expanding their menu to cater to the evolving tastes of their customers. By staying true to their roots while embracing innovation, they ensure that each visit offers a memorable dining experience.

## Community
### Community involvement
Daruma Sando actively engages with the local community through various initiatives and partnerships. The restaurant often collaborates with nearby businesses and participates in local events, showcasing its commitment to supporting the neighborhood. By fostering relationships with other establishments, Daruma Sando contributes to the vibrant culinary landscape of Seattle.

### Community notion about the place
The local community holds Daruma Sando in high regard, often praising its delicious food and friendly service. Many residents consider it a go-to spot for satisfying cravings for katsu sandwiches and curry. The restaurant's casual atmosphere and approachable pricing make it an appealing choice for families, students, and food enthusiasts alike. Positive word-of-mouth has helped solidify its reputation as a beloved dining destination in Seattle.

### Events and gatherings
Daruma Sando hosts various events and gatherings that bring the community together. From food tastings to special promotions, the restaurant creates opportunities for customers to connect and share their love for Japanese cuisine. These events not only enhance the dining experience but also foster a sense of belonging among patrons, making Daruma Sando a cherished part of the local community.

## Offerings
### What Daruma Sando offers
Daruma Sando specializes in katsu sandwiches and Japanese curry, offering a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create flavorful dishes that showcase the essence of Japanese cuisine. Customers can expect a range of options, from classic chicken katsu to innovative variations featuring shrimp and pork.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Daruma Sando is designed to be casual and enjoyable. Customers place their orders at a kiosk upon entering, allowing for a streamlined process. The menu features a selection of katsu sandwiches, each prepared with care and attention to detail. Many patrons appreciate the generous portion sizes and the option to pair their sandwiches with flavorful curry or sides. The inviting atmosphere encourages diners to savor their meals and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine.

### Events and packages
Daruma Sando occasionally offers special events and meal packages that highlight seasonal ingredients or unique culinary creations. These limited-time offerings allow customers to explore new flavors and enjoy a dynamic dining experience. The restaurant also provides combo options, making it easy for guests to enjoy a complete meal at a reasonable price.

### Facilities and features
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Kiosk ordering system for convenience
- Limited indoor and outdoor seating
- Take-out options available
- Close proximity to Gasworks Park for post-meal enjoyment

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Daruma Sando consistently highlight the quality of the food and the friendly service. Many customers rave about the flavorful katsu sandwiches and the generous portion sizes. However, some diners have noted that the restaurant can get busy during peak hours, leading to longer wait times for food. Overall, the positive feedback underscores the restaurant's commitment to providing a satisfying dining experience.

### Compliments and strengths
- Flavorful and well-prepared katsu sandwiches
- Generous portion sizes at reasonable prices
- Friendly and attentive service
- Unique offerings, including spicy variations
- Clean and inviting atmosphere

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many customers enjoy the spicy options, some have found the heat level to be intense, which may not suit everyone's palate. Additionally, a few reviews mention that certain sides, such as fries, could be improved. Despite these contrasts, the overall consensus remains positive, with the katsu sandwiches being the standout feature of the menu.

### Summary evaluation
Daruma Sando has established itself as a top choice for katsu sandwiches and Japanese curry in Seattle. With a focus on quality ingredients and a commitment to customer satisfaction, the restaurant continues to thrive in the local culinary scene. While there may be minor areas for improvement, the overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect the restaurant's dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Daruma Sando is conveniently located at 1651 N 34th St, Seattle, WA 98103, nestled in the vibrant Fremont neighborhood. This area is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and parks, making it an ideal destination for food lovers and explorers alike. Visitors can easily access nearby attractions, such as Gasworks Park, which offers stunning views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. The restaurant's location allows diners to enjoy a delicious meal before or after exploring the local sights, enhancing their overall experience in Seattle.

## FAQs
**What are the restaurant hours** Daruma Sando typically operates from 11 AM to 9 PM daily.
**Is there parking available** Street parking is available, but it can be limited in the area.
**Do they offer takeout** Yes, takeout is available for those who prefer to enjoy their meals elsewhere.
**Are there vegetarian options** The menu primarily focuses on katsu and curry, but vegetarian options may be limited.
**Can I make a reservation** Reservations are not typically required, as the restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

## Visit Daruma Sando Today
Experience the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine at Daruma Sando, where katsu sandwiches and curry take center stage. With a rich history and a strong connection to the local community, this restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food that keeps patrons coming back for more. Whether you're a fan of spicy dishes or prefer classic flavors, Daruma Sando has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a memorable dining experience in Seattle!

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We knew this place was good once we recognized the menu design (same as Menya Musashi). But honestly, didn't expect it to be THIS GOOD. They add a unique, flavorful sauce to the sando to really make it stand out. The spicy sandos are a must-try. The meat is tender and easy to chew. Really impressed from every angle. We were thinking of ordering a curry so we could dip the sando, and they had already thought of that! For $5, you can get a side of curry that's on par with 206 curry. You actually save $0.50 by getting a combo. They give a very generous portion of fries. And on DoorDash, the prices for delivery and pickup are the same there's enough coupons so that in the end, you're not paying that much more for delivery. Well done! And this puts Daruma Sando on our #1 food spot in North Seattle. It takes some effort to not want to come back every day.

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Daruma Sando is by the same folks who run Menya Musashi that serves up freshly made katsu sandwiches and curry plates at a decent price (~14 bucks for a sandwich!). Overall, portion sizes are decent and the restaurant wasn't too busy even at 12PM on a Saturday. It's walkable to Gasworks and while only street parking is available, it's far enough from the main Fremont street that it isn't a huge struggle. Ebi Katsu Sando (4.25/5): Bread is slightly sweet and super fluffy. The shrimp katsu was a homerun - nice crisp outside, bouncy perfectly cooked shrimp inside. I actually quite liked their tonkatsu sauce, which added a nice bit of tang. Chicken Katsu Curry (4/5): Chicken was juicy and tender with a delicious crunch all around. Curry was pretty standard, but you really can't complain at that price point. Pickles added a nice bit of brightness to the plate as well.

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If you are looking for decent katsu sandos with a variety of katsu options, Daruma is the spot. My favorite was the menchi katsu as it had a lot of meat that was both tender and flavorful. I mainly recommend the sandos. We tried a couple of the sides but weren't particularly impressed by anything except the sandos.

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We visited Daruma Sando this past Sunday for lunch. This restaurant is off the main Fremont strip, so there seems to be less foot traffic, making the not quite as busy as I expected (although it was still around 50% capacity). Ordering is done at a single kiosk right by the front entrance. Spicy Chicken Katsu Sando ($12.50) - When I see a place that has a non-spicy and a spicy version of a dish, I automatically think that the spicy is probably just a mild heat. Restaurants that seriously care about heat typically have labeling (e.g. 1-3 pepper level), or allow the customer to choose their desired spice level. So going into this sandwich, I thought it would be a mild, pleasant spicy. I was totally wrong. This sandwich is mouthburningly hot, similar in heat to hot or extra hot at other places. In addition to a copious amount of shichimi enriched mayo, they also spice up the chicken breading, making me sweat with every bite. Otherwise, the sandwich rests on two pieces of standard sized fluffy milk bread, toasted on one side more than the other. On the bottom, they slather an aggressive amount of the spicy mayo, and on the top, plenty of tonkatsu sauce. This creates a bite that's very spicy, a bit smoky and a bit mouth numbing, but also a pleasing sweet, savory, and kind of fruity bite. The chicken thigh in the center is breaded rather thinly and sloppily. I believe there is excess moisture on the surface of the meat so the breading doesn't adhere well and instead easily detaches as an entire sheet. It's also not a very moisture tolerant breading, so it completely softens and wilts in between the two creamy sauces. The chicken is fried and still has a somewhat moist texture. On top of the meat is a bed of thinly shredded cabbage, which probably also doesn't help the breading much. The bread doesn't stand up to the interior ingredients very well. They try to toast it a bit, but the bread seems to be almost vestigial, as it compresses into thin sheets while eating. This is why typically katsu sandwiches use thicker sliced milk bread to help make the sandwich more robust. Interestingly they offer curry as a side to dip the sandwich into. As if the sandwich isn't already enough of a mess to eat! Overall I found the sandwich to be a little too spicy for my palate - if I visit again, I'd definitely stick with the regular no spicy. (4/5) Pork Katsu Curry ($13) - Again, the katsu here, this time pork instead of chicken, has a breading layer that doesn't adhere to the meat at all. It's also not especially crisp, really missing any crags and valleys to try to deliver maximal surface area. The meat is definitely thicker cut and it is cooked until well done, fully white in the center. In comparison with the chicken, the pork is on the drier and tougher side with some sinew-ish portions to chew through. It's not totally dried out, but definitely could use some more moisture. The curry is pretty thick and when cooled, almost becomes gel-like in texture. The taste is very sweet, with a kind of apple or citrus-like fruity flavor. I think the saltiness and curry spice flavor is appropriate, but it's just a little too sweet for me. To be honest, it could be from the influence of the katsu sauce drizzle on top. I'm not sure if it's completely from box curry mix or they do something to spice it up. I haven't eaten it in a long time, but the taste reminds me of Vermont Curry. The rice is good. It's medium grain cooked perfectly. The grains are nicely cooked through but still have a bit of bite to help stand up against the curry sauce. Great mouthfeel with each individual grain being very distinct. The dish also comes with some standard fukujinzuke pickles and shredded cabbage. (4/5) Spice Fries, Spicy Mayo ($4.50) - These fries, served lukewarm and floppy, are doused with copious amounts of shichimi (seriously a ton, like an entire small shaker's worth of powder), making them powdery and very dry. Since there isn't much fat to transfer the flavor, it's not nearly as spicy as the amount of powder would suggest, and instead mainly tastes like smoky dried chiles. It really requires a dipping sauce or the powder starts sucking up all the saliva in the mouth. For the sauce, we went with the spicy mayo. It's sweet to start, then goes into a smoky spiciness that also numbs the tongue a bit. I wouldn't get these fries again. (2/5) Note; Daruma Sando currently does not supply chopsticks for their customers. I spoke with the owner and he said that he wasn't expecting the curry rice dishes to be so popular and so never bothered to order chopsticks! Daruma Sando is one of the more affordable katsu curry and sandwich places in the city - our meal for two came in under $40 including tax and tip. It's certainly not a bad choice for a meal, especially if I'm looking to save some money. Bathrooms - One unisex room that requires a code

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Restaurant is located on a lil corner a little tucked away near Gasworks. Came right after the Diplo run and it was a popular spot for post-meal. You order on kiosks and wait for your number to be called, waited 40 minutes this day but we did other things so it didn't feel like endless waiting. Got ours for take-out since they don't have too much seating inside or outside. Got the Spicy Menchi Katsu Sando 4/5 It indeed has a kick to it so you don't have to be concerned if it will be spicy or not. The ground beef patty katsu was soft and juicy, I do like to have more bite in my sandwich so I'd opt for chicken or pork next time but glad I got to try. One sandwich is probably enough to satisfy but you might make you yearn for more or you can share a sandwich for a snack. Pork Katsu Curry 4/5 Given that the restaurant has ties with other restaurants like Tamari Bar and Gyo Gyo En, the curry was of course very good, not as good as Gyo Gyo En but the base was there. The katsu does come a little sauced but if you eat it right away the katsu still has a crisp to it. The pickles they include are really delicious eaten with the curry and katsu, like a slightly sweet crunch. Spiced Fries 2/5 Maybe with the rush the fries just weren't up to par because the spice mix on the fries tasted bitter and it can get soggy quick. I prefer a crispy Mcdonald-esque fry so this just didn't hit the spot. I might try again eating at the restaurant with the nori. Sandwiches can be considered a little expensive for what they are but you save a lot of time on convenience. I think for value, it's pretty good. I'd be back when I'm in the area with a hankering for a good meaty sandwich.

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I'll start by saying they do not play with their heat! Spicy is definitely an above average level and it would be nice if they had levels between spicy and non-spicy. I snagged a spicy chicken katsu sando and spicy popcorn chicken and my taste buds were burning off! Almost a numbing spice but not exactly mala either. Overall, the sando was wet and pretty drenched in sauce so I also wish there was a light sauce option. It was difficult to taste the actual chicken flavor when the sauce and spice were attacking my taste buds. I was thrown off by the price at first, but the sandos here were decently filling. Either the owner or a worker came out and asked if we wanted water cups and I thought that was pretty nice, left a good impression for sure. Besides that though, it's very much a self service spot. Order on a tablet, get your name called, pick up the order, and then bus your own table. Spicy Chicken Katsu Sando - as noted above, the sando was pretty wet and full of sauce. Combined with a very soft katsu, the overall sando was soft which can be a good thing, but I do enjoy a crispier katsu. The spice was also pretty high so I'd opt for non-spicy in the future because I wasn't able to appreciate the contents. Spicy Popcorn Chicken - these were somewhere inbetween soggy and crispy. Chicken was tender but the breading was more like a light coating and not a deep fry. Lighter than standard karaage or popcorn chicken, which is probably good for caloric intake but underwhelming.

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Chicken katsu sandwich was great but gotta eat it fast bc the bread does get soggy. Curry was alright. Their fries were not great so you can skip it. Potato & egg salad was alright, prob can skip that, too. We got there around 11am & it was getting crowded. Service was a little slow. We left about 12:30pm. Finding street parking was a nightmare.

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Saw this spot on a bike ride and decided to give it a go! There's a kiosk right when you step in and there's a good amount of indoor seatings and two tables outside. I ordered a Ebi katsu sandwich, popcorn chicken, and Takoyaki. Sandwich had a good crunch and was very flavorful. I've been wanting a good Sando place in the Seattle area and this place exceeded my expectations

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I love a good katsu sando and this spot did not disappoint! I ordered the spicy tonkatsu sando and a melon ice cream float. The spicy tonkatsu sando was so good and the amount of spice was perfect for me. The crispness of the pork and flavor of sauce were great. The ice cream float was also fun to drink!

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First time visiting this place. We went on Labor Day. It wasn't very busy and this place is casual... yoou order at the kiosk and wait for your food. You can eat there or get it to go. Pretty straightforward and didn't take long. The food was delicious we got the potato croquette sando and the chicken katsu sando with curry sauce for dipping. It was good for a quick lunch. If you have time I would get it to go and head over to gasworks park.

Discover Daruma Sando in Seattle, WA for authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy setting. Experience unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Book your table now.

Daruma Sando: Authentic Japanese Cuisine in Seattle, WA

Seattle

Daruma Sando

Washington

Explore the full menu at Daruma Sando in Seattle, WA. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 1651 N 34th St.

Daruma Sando Menu – Food & Drinks in Seattle, WA

Learn about Daruma Sando in Seattle, WA. Discover our story, specialties, and what makes us a favorite local spot. Visit us at 1651 N 34th St.

About Daruma Sando, Seattle, WA

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