salt ramen (Photo by Luis Samayoa/Stripes Japan)
Just a few minutes away from Yokota Air Base’s main gate, a hole in the wall is serving up quick, no-frills lunches perfect for when you’re on the go.
You’ll find Chuka Juhachiban among the backroads of Mizuho between a few small local shops and restaurants.
The first time I saw this restaurant was when I was washing my military gear in the coin laundromat nearby. I saw lots of older people outside just smoking and joking out front of the restaurant’s rustic building. The atmosphere looked wonderful from the outside, and this small shop was on my mind ever since.
In the mood for trying something new, I stopped by for lunch without knowing anything about their menu. Inside, I was received by the waiter with a loud welcoming greeting, and was allowed to sit anywhere. I chose a small corner table with a menu pinned to the wall and used the mighty Google Translate app to see what’s on the menu. I saw fried rice, ramen, gyoza and tonkatsu at affordable prices.
I decided to go with the basic Salt Ramen for 800 yen (about $5) to just test the water. There is no call button, so you will need to brush up on some basic Japanese language such as the phrases, “sumimasen” and “kore wa, onegaishimasu.” It took about five minutes to receive my delicious bowl that looked homemade.
For the price, the bowl was quite large. The taste was incredible, lightly salted and not oily as ramen broths sometimes are. As I was enjoying my meal, another customer ordered a lunch beer, so the alcohol menu is available during the day if you’re (off duty, not driving and) craving an afternoon drink.
This little shop is a hidden gem for a quick, easy and affordable meal. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the main gate of Yokota, which can be ideal for lunch rush times. I would recommend this shop if you are in the mood for some homecooked-style Japanese food. It’s delicious and won’t break the bank!
(Photo by Luis Samayoa/Stripes Japan)
(Photo by Luis Samayoa/Stripes Japan)
Things to know
Address: 2-8-14 Musashino, Mizuho, Nishitama, Tokyo 1901214
Hours: Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Thursdays.
Other info: This is a cash-only shop. There is a 7-11 down the street with an ATM.
Parking is very limited.