HYPER LOCAL NAGOYA
Baikou-ken, a beloved ramen shop in Nagoya’s Chikusa-ku, is set to close after 41 years of serving up delicious noodles. As part of our “My Hyperlocal Choice” series, we joined Terabe-san, a devoted Baikou-ken regular for 35 years, to pay tribute to the iconic eatery in its final day. Baikou-ken has been a staple of Nagoya’s culinary scene, creating lasting memories for generations of locals. Join us in honoring the legacy of this Nagoya institution and its mouth-watering ramen dishes.
*Please note that the opinions expressed in this article are solely our own!
Thanks, Baikou-ken, for your contributions to Nagoya’s ramen culture!
– Hey, Terabe-san! It’s the last day for Baikou-ken.
It’s too sad! I never imagined this day would come. I currently live in Tokyo, but I came back to Nagoya for Baikouken, driving for two hours just for this!
– That’s some dedication! Still, it’s really disappointing!
It’s been about 10 years since the son took over from the previous owner… Since the 2nd generation is still young, I was relieved that I could still eat their food even as I grew older, so it’s really a shame.
– When did you first hear about the shop closing?
Around January this year. It was like a bolt from the blue! I was like, “What?!”. I seriously thought if there was anyone who could take over.
– Why not take over yourself?
Haha, I don’t have that kind of talent. But instead, I’ll pay twice the amount, so if anyone is interested, please take over!
– You really love Baikouken!
I’ve been going there since I was about five years old. It’s like a part of my body now. I used to go three times a day in the past, for brunch, late lunch, and dinner!
– What are you planning to order for last day?
Of course, it’s miso ramen. Baikouken is popular for their salt and soy sauce flavors, but I’ve always been a miso fan! And I’ll top it with bamboo shoots and butter. And of course, I’ll have rice too!
– Is it different from other miso ramen?
Baikouken has shops not only in Nagoya but also in Asahikawa, Tokyo, Nara, and even in Singapore. But this Nagoya shop’s miso flavor is different from the others. It has a unique blend, and it’s one-of-a-kind! By the way, the owner of the Nara shop trained in the Nagoya shop, so there’s a high possibility of the flavor being inherited! So, if I ever crave Baikouken in the future, I might go to Nara!
– That’s impressive!
I talked to other Baikou-ken fans, and we’re planning to go together by car!
– Finally, can you say a word to Baikou-ken?
I’ve been grateful for 35 years! My desire to eat Baikou-ken always motivated me to come back to Nagoya! So, please take a good rest! Also, please say that the shop closing was just a prank! I won’t be angry at all! Haha.
