This article highlights “Marusan,” a popular spot within the Idekei Wakayama ramen scene, renowned for its rich tonkotsu soy sauce broth. If you want to experience the true taste of Wakayama ramen, this is the place to go.
What is Marusan Chuka Soba?
Marusan is located in the Shioya area of Wakayama City, near the Wakaura district.
The shop is run by relatives of the founder of Ide Shoten, and it is said that the taste is quite similar.
Marusan Restaurant Information
- Name: Chuka Soba Marusan
- Address: 6-2-88 Shioya, Wakayama City
- Phone Number: (+81)73-444-1971
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Closed: Sundays
Inside Marusan
Though Marusan is a long-established shop, the interior is relatively modern, possibly due to recent renovations.
The restaurant has one large shared table that seats eight in the center, a few counter seats, and three tables that can accommodate 4-5 people each.
On each table, you’ll find sushi and boiled eggs, which customers can enjoy at their leisure.
Payment is made after the meal.
My Impressions of Marusan’s Chuka Soba
This time, I ordered the “Special Large” with extra noodles and extra meat. Generally, portions at Wakayama ramen shops are on the smaller side, so a large serving is just right for an adult male.
The soup is a cloudy brown, with a robust pork bone broth that thoroughly infuses the flavor, while the soy sauce adds a sharp edge. The aroma is quite strong, which some people might find overpowering.
The noodles are a classic, medium-thin, straight variety. They’re firm enough to hold up well in the soup, making for a delicious combination. It’s so good that I finished it in no time, and I almost wanted more. Just a note, though—there are no extra noodle servings available.
The chashu pork is tender and falls apart in your mouth. It’s thin, soft, and melts effortlessly.
Marusan’s chuka soba is a simple combination of chashu, green onions, menma (bamboo shoots), and kamaboko (fish cake). This simplicity might be the secret to its enduring popularity.
Thank you for the meal.
Marusan Chuka Soba Menu
- Ramen Menu
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- Chuka Soba: 700 yen
- Special Chuka Soba (Chashu Ramen): 800 yen
- Large: 800 yen
- Special Large: 900 yen
- Side menu
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- Boiled Egg: 50 yen
- Hayazushi (pressed sushi): 150 yen
- Makizushi (rolled sushi): 150 yen
- Inarizushi (rice in fried tofu): 150 yen
Access to Marusan Chuka Soba
- About a 28-minute walk from “Kimiidera” Station on the JR Kisei Main Line (Kinokuni Line).
- A short walk from the “Shioya” bus stop on the Wakayama Bus line.
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