If you’ve ever visited Japan or dreamt of experiencing its diverse food culture, you’ve probably encountered ramen in some form. This beloved noodle dish, with its rich history and unique regional variations, has become a global sensation. But within the ramen world, there is one place that stands out for its distinct offerings and dedication to traditional Japanese flavors—Onomichi, located in Hiroshima Prefecture.
Among the many eateries that contribute to Onomichi’s reputation, Dango Masayoshi is known for its ramen that draws inspiration from the area’s culinary roots. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original, exploring its origins, the ramen itself, and why it’s a must-try for any food enthusiast.
Onomichi’s Culinary Legacy: More Than Just Ramen
Onomichi isn’t just another town in Japan—it’s a historical and cultural hub that has shaped Japanese food over centuries. Known for its scenic views, rolling hills, and proximity to the Seto Inland Sea, Onomichi has also become famous for its ramen. But Onomichi ramen is unique. Unlike other ramen varieties found throughout Japan, Onomichi ramen has a lighter, more refined broth that uses pork and seafood base flavors. It is often paired with flat, straight noodles that give the ramen a distinct texture and consistency.
The history of ramen in Onomichi dates back to the early 20th century, when Chinese immigrants introduced the dish to the region. Since then, local chefs have developed their own recipes, creating a flavor profile distinct from the more commonly known Tonkotsu or Shoyu ramen styles. The broth is often clear and slightly oily, creating a light but rich taste that is perfect for the delicate noodles.
What makes Onomichi ramen truly special is its focus on balance—no single flavor overpowers the other. The broth, the noodles, the toppings, and the side dishes all come together in perfect harmony, offering a complete and satisfying meal.
Dango Masayoshi: A Ramen Institution in Onomichi
One of the standout names in Onomichi’s ramen scene is Dango Masayoshi. This ramen shop has earned a reputation for offering an original take on the traditional Onomichi ramen, yet staying true to the flavors and methods that have made this region’s ramen so beloved.
Dango Masayoshi was founded by Masayoshi Fukuda, a passionate ramen chef who wanted to offer a unique twist on Onomichi’s ramen culture while honoring its heritage. The restaurant’s slogan, “Ramen with Soul,” speaks volumes about Masayoshi’s commitment to quality and authenticity. He places great emphasis on using only the finest local ingredients, from fresh vegetables to locally sourced pork, to craft the perfect bowl of ramen.
The shop is housed in a cozy, welcoming environment that perfectly reflects the warmth of the ramen it serves. The interior blends traditional Japanese design with modern touches, giving customers a sense of being both part of Onomichi’s rich culinary past and its contemporary dining scene.
The Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original: What Sets It Apart
Dango Masayoshi’s ramen is an homage to the classic Onomichi style, but with a few key differences that make it stand out from the rest. The restaurant’s flagship dish is the Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original, which combines the elements that have made Onomichi ramen famous with Masayoshi’s personal twist.
Broth: The broth is a perfect balance of pork and seafood, creating a rich yet light flavor that coats the noodles without overwhelming them. The pork bones and dried fish are simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor, but the result is not the heavy, greasy broth often found in other ramen styles. Instead, it is clean, clear, and slightly oily, creating a rich mouthfeel that pairs perfectly with the noodles.
Noodles: Onomichi’s signature flat, straight noodles are used, offering a soft yet chewy texture. The noodles are perfectly suited to the broth, soaking up just the right amount of flavor without becoming soggy. This unique noodle style distinguishes Onomichi ramen from other varieties found across Japan, which often feature curly noodles.
Toppings: Dango Masayoshi ramen is topped with all the classic ingredients you’d expect—chashu (braised pork belly), green onions, and a boiled egg. But it’s the subtle additions, like the freshly fried tempura bits, that make the dish stand out. These crispy tempura bits add a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pork and delicate noodles.
Personal Touch: While Dango Masayoshi sticks to the traditional Onomichi ramen formula, there are elements of surprise that show Masayoshi’s creativity. The use of local vegetables, seasonal ingredients, and an occasional special topping or two keep the experience fresh and exciting. Some patrons have noted that the shop occasionally adds different kinds of fish or seafood to the broth, giving it an extra depth of flavor that surprises even seasoned ramen lovers.
Portion Size: The portion size at Dango Masayoshi is generous, ensuring that you’ll leave the restaurant feeling satisfied. Whether you’re a first-time ramen eater or a seasoned veteran, the shop’s portions are always just the right size—not too large to feel overwhelming, but big enough to hit the spot.
Why It’s Worth a Visit: The Dango Masayoshi Experience
Onomichi ramen has long been a local favorite, but Dango Masayoshi has taken it a step further, elevating the dish while maintaining the essence of what makes Onomichi ramen so special. Here’s why you should make it a point to visit this ramen gem if you find yourself in Onomichi:
Authenticity with Innovation: While many ramen shops stray far from tradition, Dango Masayoshi respects the roots of Onomichi ramen while introducing subtle innovations. The menu includes both original and seasonal offerings, ensuring that there’s always something new to try. For instance, during the summer months, you might find a chilled ramen dish made with the same high-quality ingredients but served in a refreshing, light broth.
Attention to Detail: Every aspect of the ramen is crafted with care—from the precise cooking times of the broth to the way the noodles are cooked and served. The chefs at Dango Masayoshi go the extra mile to ensure that each bowl of ramen is perfect, something that any ramen enthusiast can appreciate.
Local Flavor: The ingredients used in the ramen are locally sourced, and the shop takes pride in supporting Onomichi’s agricultural and fishing industries. The pork is raised in Hiroshima Prefecture, and the seafood is sourced from the Seto Inland Sea, ensuring that every bowl has a distinct, fresh flavor that can only come from this region.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and welcoming staff make it a great place for families, friends, and solo diners alike. Whether you’re seeking a quick, satisfying meal or a leisurely dining experience, Dango Masayoshi provides a comfortable environment that invites you to savor every bite.
A Local Landmark: When you visit Onomichi, eating at Dango Masayoshi is more than just having a meal—it’s an immersion into the local culture. Many of the shop’s regulars have been coming for years, and they appreciate the consistency and quality of the ramen. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can bond over their shared love of good food.
A Global Perspective: Onomichi Ramen’s Growing Popularity
Ramen is no longer a dish confined to Japan—it’s become a global phenomenon. From New York City to London, cities around the world now boast ramen shops that try to replicate the traditional flavors of Japan. Yet, there’s something uniquely special about Onomichi ramen that sets it apart. While other regional ramen styles—like Tonkotsu or Shoyu—have gained widespread attention, Onomichi ramen’s lighter, more subtle flavors have made it a hidden gem for those seeking a different kind of ramen experience.
Dango Masayoshi is at the forefront of this movement, spreading the flavors of Onomichi ramen to an international audience. Though its primary location remains in Onomichi, the restaurant’s popularity has led to collaborations with food festivals and international ramen events, bringing a taste of Onomichi’s culinary history to food lovers across the globe.
Conclusion
Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original is more than just a bowl of noodles—it’s a culinary experience that embodies the rich history and flavors of Onomichi. With its delicate balance of pork and seafood broth, perfectly textured noodles, and thoughtfully crafted toppings, this ramen offers a taste of tradition with a touch of innovation. Dango Masayoshi stands out as a must-visit ramen destination, preserving the essence of Onomichi’s food culture while continuously refining its flavors. Whether you’re a devoted ramen enthusiast or a curious traveler, this ramen shop promises a satisfying and authentic experience that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine.
FAQs
1. What makes Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original unique?
Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original features a distinctive broth made from a combination of pork and seafood, creating a rich yet light flavor. It also uses Onomichi’s signature flat, straight noodles and includes special toppings like crispy tempura bits, adding a unique texture and depth to the dish.
2. Where is Dango Masayoshi located?
Dango Masayoshi is located in Onomichi, a historic town in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The shop is a well-known destination for ramen lovers visiting the area.
3. What type of broth does Onomichi ramen have?
Onomichi ramen typically features a clear, slightly oily broth made with pork and seafood, creating a light but flavorful base. It is different from heavier ramen styles like Tonkotsu.
4. Does Dango Masayoshi offer vegetarian or vegan ramen?
While the restaurant primarily specializes in traditional Onomichi ramen, it’s best to check with the staff for any vegetarian or vegan options, as menu offerings may change seasonally.
5. What are the signature toppings of Onomichi Dango Masayoshi Ramen Original?
The ramen includes classic toppings like chashu (braised pork belly), green onions, and a boiled egg, along with unique additions such as crispy tempura bits for added texture and flavor.
6. Can I find Onomichi-style ramen outside of Japan?
While Onomichi ramen is not as widely available as other ramen styles, its popularity is growing. Some international ramen shops and food festivals have featured Onomichi-style ramen, and Dango Masayoshi has participated in global events to showcase its flavors.
7. Is Dango Masayoshi suitable for first-time ramen eaters?
Absolutely! The balanced flavors and lighter broth make it an excellent choice for both first-time ramen eaters and seasoned ramen lovers.
