HYPER LOCAL NAGOYA
Step inside Fukujuen, the go-to ‘Ramen in Nagoya’ spot that’s the local watering hole for folks like our Nagoyan buddy Takahashi-san. You see, every neighborhood in Japan has that one special spot – they call it ‘Machi-Chuka.’ These cherished establishments are adored by locals for Japanese spin on Chinese flavors. They exude a cozy, street-side charm with their weathered interiors, offering budget-friendly prices, and create the perfect atmosphere for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re sipping a drink or sharing a meal!
About 40 Years of Flavor Excellence – Fukujuen, a Nagoya Tradition!
So, we dropped by Fukujuen, a neighborhood ramen joint that’s been dishing out deliciousness for about 40 years. It may look a bit oily and dingy, but that’s all part of its charm. Their menu is a treasure trove, from ramen to stir-fries, and it’s not just delicious; it’s affordable and lightning-fast.
Picture this: we squeeze onto some counter seats, order up a bottle of beer, and indulge in the irresistible ‘Nira-Tama.’ The combination of fluffy eggs and crispy chives is a delight! In just 2-3 minutes, our feast arrives. The seasoning is spot-on, and it pairs perfectly with the beer!
And speaking of unique, we couldn’t resist trying their famous ‘furufuru’ ramen, their take on Taiwan ramen, which happens to be a Nagoya specialty. This spicy noodle soup comes with crispy veggies stir-fried in chili oil, and it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
It may seem chaotic, but it’s authentically charming!
Now, the décor inside? Well, it’s a mishmash of handwritten menus, autographs from local celebrities, and a few oil spots here and there, giving it that not-so-clean but incredibly authentic charm. It might look a bit chaotic, but it’s got its own unique identity and charm, embodying the theory that sometimes, the dirtier the place, the more delicious the food!
As we munch on our tasty grub, the conversation flows effortlessly – work, family, and it seems Takahashi-san is getting the hang of his new job after that recent career switch. He’s also got dreams of going independent someday, but for now, he’s content sipping on that ice-cold bottle of beer, leaving those big decisions for another day.
Meanwhile, in Fukujuen’s kitchen, the young chef is working tirelessly, fulfilling orders one after another. Ah, the simple yet wonderfully local Monday night of a Nagoya at the quintessential Machi-chuka joint – that’s Fukujuen for you!
Fukujuen (福寿苑)
1-101-1 Tokugawa, Higashi-ku, Nagoya
