One of the joys of experiencing Japan is discovering local gourmet cuisine in various regions. In Hitachinaka City, there is a beloved establishment that stands out from the typical tourist dining spots. That place is "Shokubou Tsushima." Known for its popular Tsugaru ramen and sauce katsudon, this restaurant often has lines during lunchtime, a testament to its long-standing love from the local community.
Tsugaru Ramen – The grilled dried fish soup from Tsugaru is exquisite!
One of the signature dishes at Shokubou Tsushima is "Tsugaru Ramen," which has its roots in the flavors of the Tsugaru region in Aomori Prefecture. The soup, made with locally sourced dried fish, offers a rich and flavorful broth. This bowl of ramen emphasizes the natural taste of its ingredients, making it a friendly and approachable option for international travelers trying Japanese ramen for the first time.
Sauce Katsu Don – Another Signature Dish
One of the must-try specialties at this restaurant is the sauce katsu don, another local favorite. The tender pork cutlet, made from domestic fillet meat, is generously coated in a special sauce that makes it irresistible with rice. It's no surprise that many visitors come here specifically for the sauce katsu don, even though it’s a ramen shop. This dish stands alongside ramen as a beloved menu item, cherished by the locals.
We recommend the Mini Mini Set!
When you visit, be sure to order the "Mini Mini Set," which allows you to enjoy both Tsugaru Ramen and Katsudon. This set includes a small-sized Tsugaru Ramen along with two pieces of sauce Katsudon, making it just right for first-time visitors. Additionally, I ordered the Katsudon with four pieces. The Katsudon comes with miso soup, salad, and pickles, providing a satisfying and hearty meal. You can truly enjoy both the volume and the flavor!
Tips for Avoiding Lunchtime Queues
Shokubou Tsushima is a popular dining spot where locals frequently gather, making it quite lively during lunchtime with office workers and regular customers often forming lines. To avoid the lunchtime rush, it's best to arrive right when they open. On weekdays, the restaurant tends to be relatively quiet at opening time, allowing you to enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace.
A perfect spot to drop by during your sightseeing in Hitachinaka!
Hitachinaka City is dotted with various tourist attractions, including parks, in addition to the sea and markets. A great spot to stop by in between your sightseeing is Shokubou Tsushima, where tourism and daily life intersect. One of its charms is the opportunity to enjoy both Tsugaru ramen and sauce katsudon in one meal!
When you visit Hitachinaka City, be sure to enjoy both Tsugaru Ramen and Sauce Katsu Don at "Shokubou Tsushima." Even if you encounter a line, the short wait will be part of the experience, making it a memorable meal where you can immerse yourself in Japan's local food culture.