Chukasoba Kokuya Haradaya

A long-established Chuka Soba shop quietly nestled in an alley in Sakae, Nagoya. Originally, 'Kokuya' was a small shop near Higashi Betsuin, under the Nagoya Expressway, run by two men. Mr. Harada relocated it to Sakae about 15 years ago, establishing the current shop. It is located in a corner where adult entertainment establishments and old eateries coexist, a corner that persevered without displacement amidst the redevelopment of the Sakae area. While highly regarded by connoisseurs as a representative salt ramen shop in the prefecture, its signature Chuka Soba Shoyu and weekday-limited 'Guerrilla Shoyu / Guerrilla Shio' also garner strong support from regulars. Chuka Soba comes in three types (Shoyu, Shio, Miso) with two styles: 'Assari-kei' (light) and 'Kotteri-kei' (rich). Another core offering is 'Mochibuta no Abura Chuka Soba', which features a chicken and seafood base topped with Mochibuta pork lard. The regular Chuka Soba uses extra-fine wavy noodles, while Guerrilla-style menus use medium-thick noodles. The most distinctive feature is the preparation of the char siu: a unique style where diced char siu is pan-fried to enhance its aroma and flavor before serving. Seasonal limited menus are also offered, such as the year-end limited 'Noukou Tonnikujiru-men' (Rich Pork Broth Noodles). The interior is a cozy space with 6 counter seats and 4 table seats. Unique Rococo-style furnishings and bowls reminiscent of Yohen Tenmoku (a type of celadon tea bowl) create the atmosphere. The shop is run by the owner alone, and lively interactions with regular customers and the owner's explanation of dishes to first-time visitors create an experience befitting a hidden gem.