March 4, 2025, marked the appearance of Tsushima City’s very own ramen shop, 'Moritaya', during the episode of the popular show 'Human Gourmet Mentary: Oumamai Store'. The location, which has become the talk of many due to its unique setup and delicious offerings, is helmed by 71-year-old Yoshiki Nodate. Operating from a makeshift establishment crafted from pipes and covered with blue sheets, Nodate’s shop is not just another noodle house; it’s an encapsulation of culinary innovation born from humble conditions.
Located on borrowed parking space from the owner's connections at a local transport company, Moritaya specializes in ramen priced at just 300 yen per bowl. For those unfamiliar with the culinary scene, this price point is remarkable for the generous quality of food served here—and diners are certainly taking note. According to reports from the show's audience, many patrons have been observed savoring not just the noodles, but also finishing off their bowls by drinking the flavorful broth entirely. Some might say it’s rare to find such authentic local delicacies at this price.
The ramen served at Moritaya stands out for its rich, homemade flavor, resulting from ingredients like self-prepared yakidare, chicken oil, and bone broth from chickens and clams. The foundation of the dish features custom-made thin noodles known for their resilience and chewiness, adding to the overall hearty meal. What enhances the experience even more is the carefully crafted toppings like homemade char siu, which is subtly flavored chicken breast prepared at low temperature. This method of cooking retains the meat's tenderness and infuses it with taste—a technique Nodate painstakingly adopted to produce the best possible results.
Adding to the ramen is the homemade menma, carefully cooked with soy sauce, sake, shiitake mushrooms, and kelp. This thoughtful combination adds crunch and umami, perfectly complementing the bowl of noodles. Customers laud the char siu for its fantastic texture and how it pairs with the ramen’s broth.
Despite only being open for around six months, Moritaya has garnered attention for its dedication to quality and taste. According to Yoshiki Nodate, the unwavering commitment to offering delightful customer experiences has helped the ramen shop thrive: “We want to make sure everyone leaves happy.” This statement was echoed by regular customers who can’t resist recommending it to newcomers, creating quite the buzz around the small shop.
Many diners show up at Moritaya not just for the food, but for the unique dining experience. The innovative method of delivering food via magic hand, as claimed by the restaurant staff, captures the lively spirit of the establishment. It's not just about eating; it’s about creating delightful memories during one’s meal.
Located at the heart of Tsushima, where daily routines often overshadow culinary discoveries, Moritaya provides food lovers with not just meals, but also encourages them to appreciate simpler pleasures. Diners rave about how each component of the ramen reflects Nodate's dedication and personalization at each step, from preparation to plate. “This is what ramen should taste like,” says one satisfied customer who prefers to remain unnamed.
The continued success of Moritaya is not just empirical; it's evident through the lines of customers who gather outside the doors waiting to get their bowls of warmth and flavor. With no additional closing days except when faced with inclement weather, the establishment remains consistently accessible—an oasis for anyone craving honest, delicious ramen.
For those who have yet to discover this gem, Moritaya stands as testimony to how local enterprises can thrive when they deliver quality and authenticity, no matter the challenges faced, including the makeshift nature of their premises. With remarkable dishes and heartfelt service, it's evident why this ramen shop has become such a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike.
Yoshiki Nodate’s place may still be classified as humble, but the food served at Moritaya is anything but ordinary. Whether you're drawn by the lore of the 'blue-sheet shop' or simply seeking your next favorite ramen, make sure to pull up a seat and enjoy all the flavor and delight this little ramen house has to offer.