Ramen shop in Chiayi still thriving after four decades in business

Time now for a peek into the world of Japanese cuisine in Taiwan. A ramen shop in Chiayi has been going strong for more than four decades, beloved by patrons for its hearty broths and cozy, family-run atmosphere. History buffs can also enjoy a slice of restaurant history, as they inspect antiques from the early days of the business.

A piping hot bowl of ramen is served. The customer enjoys a mouthful of noodles and a satisfying sip of broth.

Customer
I’ve been eating here for four or five years, because I love the taste of the ramen.

Customer
I think the ramen broth here is very rich. Their tempura is very special too.

Customer
I think it tastes great and the space is lovely.

This Japanese ramen shop has been open here in Chiayi City for more than 40 years. Many loyal customers come back to enjoy another bowl time after time. Meanwhile in the kitchen, numerous pans are bubbling furiously on the stove.

Everyone knows broth is the real heart of a good bowl of ramen. Fresh pork and chicken bones are bought here every day, to boil down until they’re milky white. It smells just like a real Japanese eatery. The shop was founded by the current owner’s father-in-law, who started the business after a scout trip to Japan over four decades ago.

Hu Pan
Ramen shop owner
This was the marketing leaflet my father-in-law used 41 years ago. The phone number is six digits. Now phone numbers are seven digits. This bowl is from around the same period.

Tsai Yi-ting
Ramen shop third generation
We don’t want the skills my grandpa handed down to disappear. So we want to keep the shop running well.

The little ramen joint is now moving into the hands of its third generation. Original leaflets and tableware from the early days can still be seen inside. If you’re in Chiayi, make sure to pop in for a bite of history, a warm welcome, and of course, a very satisfying meal.