Full in Fukuoka
March 30, 2012It's easy to be hesitant about trying new foods in Japan. For one, very little English is spoken and there is rarely an English menu available. Furthermore, many Japanese dishes are unknown in the West. So, even when there are picture menus available, the foreign diner most likely has no clue as to what he or she is looking at. I'll admit that I spent quite a bit of time at McDonald's during my first trip to Japan, mostly because my first attempt at 'point and order' ended with my being queasy at the mystery meal I consumed. I wasn't going to let that happen this time. I was eager to experience Japan one spoonful (or chopstickful) at a time.
Most Japanese restaurants seem to be set up in similar ways. As far as the interior is concerned, wood elements are often used. Colorful sake bottles line the shelves. The design is simple and clean. Dining in Japan is also entertaining. Upon entering a restaurant, waiters often shout out a welcome in unison. At first, it can be a bit uncomfortable in the way that waiters singing "Happy Birthday" at family dining chains in the States can be. It's easy to get used to, though, and when you do, it's kinda fun.
Friday was freezing and I needed nothing more than a hot bowl of noodles to warm me up. I got excited when I found an udon shop in Hakata Station. I motioned for the waiter to follow me outside the restaurant so I could show him what I wanted on the posted photo menu. He happily took my order and soon enough, a piping hot bowl of chewy udon noodles in a broth was brought to my table. I had become accustomed to eating udon in Korea but nothing compared to this. In addition to the noodles was a large lightly fried shrimp, a handful of green onions, and pieces of tempura batter. The shrimp was delicious but what really made the dish great was the tempura. The little morsels of crunchiness gave the noodles a perfect texture that left me wanting more.

The best udon I've ever had. Love those tempura bites!

Authentic ramen- Hakata style.

Ramen Stadium in Canal City hosts numerous ramen shops under one roof.
With the last essential meal crossed off my to-eat list, my gastronomic journey had ended. At least for a while. If I have my way, I'll be back for seconds soon.
2 comments
Nice post! It made me hungry even with the sushi which I'm not a fan of. ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jo! As I'm sure you would agree, eating is the best part of traveling!
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