Bowls of Rice

"Living in a city with brutal winters means experiencing the joy of eating something warm and cozy in a way that people with year-round sun will never know. Next time it’s 14 degrees outside, order from Bokuchan. This takeout-only spot specializes in Japanese curry, and the menu has things like tonkatsu kare, udon, and waffle fries topped with a curry aioli. Both the chicken and pork are incredibly juicy, the handmade noodles are wonderfully chewy, and the rich curry is better than any space heater." - adrian kane

"This takeout-only spot specializes in Japanese curry and the menu has things like tonkatsu kare, a shaved beef udon curry, and waffle fries (yes, topped with curry). Both the chicken and pork are incredibly juicy, the handmade noodles are wonderfully chewy, and we’re glad the rich curry is covering everything since it’s delicious. Basically, this place has the type of comfort food that can single-handedly get you through winter." - adrian kane

"Pair with:House Of The Devil This is a 2009 throwback to those horror movies that focused on the satanic panic of the 80s. And between the shaky 16mm film, music playing over the opening credits scene, and lots and lots of feathered hair, it’s really effective. House of the Devil is about a woman who takes a babysitting gig for (wait for it) devil worshippers, and creates a tense atmosphere where the terror builds like a slow burn. To replicate this feeling, I recommend ordering the tonkatsu kare from carryout-only spot Bokuchan. The sweet curry has a light spice with a gentle heat that creeps up on you. Also, the rich sauce is very comforting, which you’re going to need by the end of the film. Watch the trailer." - adrian kane

"Another thing that came out of this year is a plethora of carryout and delivery-only restaurants - a.k.a. virtual restaurants - including this Japanese place in Avondale. This takeout-only spot specializes in curry - there’s tonkatsu kare, shaved beef udon curry, and waffle fries (also topped with curry) - and Bokuchan is everything you want when it’s gross outside. This place also understands the importance of careful packaging - every component of the tonkatsu kare is packaged separately, keeping the pork crispy and rice fluffy." - adrian kane

"Your order: Tonkatsu Kare This is another carryout and delivery-only spot (Are you seeing a pattern?) specializing in Japanese curry. Our favorite thing to order at Bokuchan is the tonkatsu kare - the cutlet is crispy and juicy, and the rich curry is lightly sweetened with apple, so it perfectly complements the pork. Basically, we’re pretty sure this dish can single-handedly get us through the rest of winter." - adrian kane