Introduction – A Showa-Era Eatery with Over 80 Years of History
Asahiya (アサヒ屋) opened its doors in 1936 (Showa 11).
What began as a modest eatery soon became beloved for offering warm, filling meals during the postwar years. Their udon gained local popularity, and over time, the menu expanded to include dishes that remain favorites today.
Despite the decades, the restaurant has held onto its roots—serving honest, comforting food to generations of local families and curious visitors.
Atmosphere – Showa Retro, Always Busy, and Efficient
Asahiya carries an unmistakable 昭和レトロ warmth.
Nothing flashy—just a simple, nostalgic dining space that feels like it has quietly existed forever.
Before visiting, it’s helpful to know:
- Parking is limited, so arriving early is best.
- Even with a queue, the line moves quickly due to fast service.
- Food is served promptly; it’s not the kind of place to linger like a café.
- Depending on the crowd, you may be asked to share a table with other guests.
- Cash only — no credit cards or digital payments accepted. Be sure to bring cash.
It’s efficient, lively, and warmly old-fashioned—the type of place where regulars feel at home.
Chuka Soba (中華そば) – Light, Comforting, and Unpretentious
Asahiya’s chuka soba is the kind of bowl that instantly brings you back to the flavors of an old-fashioned Japanese eatery. The broth is clear and soothing, built on katsuobushi, kombu, and chicken, with a mild soy sauce seasoning that has no harsh edges. Reviewers often describe it as “懐かしい,”(nostalgic) a flavor that feels both homely and enduring.
The noodles are mid-thick straight noodles with a slight wave, cooked to a smooth and pleasant bite. They hold the broth well without becoming heavy, making the bowl easy to enjoy from start to finish.
The chashu is another highlight—tender slices of both shoulder and belly, simmered long enough to carry deep umami without falling apart. The menma, made in-house rather than from a central kitchen, adds texture and warmth to the bowl.
Overall, this chuka soba is unpretentious but deeply satisfying. It pairs perfectly with the espuma-style katsudon for a classic Asahiya set loved by locals for generations.
Katsudon (カツ丼) – Crispy, Hearty, and Perfect for Sharing
Price: ¥720
Asahiya’s katsudon is famous for its gentle, comforting flavor and its signature espuma-style egg topping.
Instead of the usual simmered egg found in most katsudon, Asahiya uses a light, meringue-like foam that softly covers the cutlet. This airy topping absorbs the umami of the broth, creating a cloud-like texture that many reviewers describe as “meringue-style egg with rich dashi flavor.”
Underneath the espuma, the pork cutlet is tender and easy to eat, with a pleasant softness that blends beautifully with the fluffy egg and dashi. Because the espuma is light rather than wet, the dish never feels heavy or overly sweet—just balanced, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying.
It’s the type of katsudon you understand only after tasting: simple at first glance, yet surprisingly memorable, and loved enough that people are willing to line up even on hot days.
Why Customers Love Asahiya – What People Say
✔ Showa-style nostalgia
The atmosphere and flavors feel like stepping back into a gentler time.
✔ Very reasonable prices
Hard to find a delicious, classic chuka soba for ¥530 nowadays.
✔ Quick turnover
Even long lines move fast thanks to efficient service and a steady rhythm.
✔ Friendly staff
Polite, quick, and attentive.
✔ Consistently good food
Nothing overly fancy—just reliable, comforting dishes.
My Personal Experience – A Place I Keep Returning To
I find myself coming back to Asahiya again and again—it has become a familiar favorite.
My husband first brought me here, and from the very first sip of the broth, it felt nostalgic—simple, gentle, and heartwarming.
It’s the kind of taste that makes you slow down without realizing it.
We’ve created a small tradition together:
- We each order one chuka soba,
- And we share a katsudon.
The combination is just right—light noodles with a warm, hearty bowl of rice and crispy cutlet.
It feels homely, familiar, and somehow comforting every time.
Asahiya isn’t a modern café or a trendy ramen shop, and that’s exactly its charm.
It’s sincere, steady, and timeless.
Tips for Visiting Asahiya
- Arrive before 11:00 AM to avoid long waits.
- Parking is very limited—plan ahead.
- Bring cash; they do not accept cards or digital payments.
- Expect fast service and quick turnover.
- Best combo: Chuka Soba + Katsudon (shared).
- You may be asked to share a table during busy periods.
Asahiya has been loved for generations because it stays true to what matters: comforting flavors, warm service, and a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like home.
If you’re in Ōgaki or traveling through Gifu, this restaurant is absolutely worth visiting.
Simple, honest, and quietly unforgettable—Asahiya is the kind of place that keeps you coming back.
Store Information — Asahiya (アサヒ屋), Ōgaki, Gifu
Address
40 Higashinagamachi, Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, 503-0882
Phone
0584-78-4054
Opening Hours
10:30–17:00
(Closes earlier when sold out)
Closed Days
Mondays
Two Tuesdays per month (irregular schedule)
Parking
11 parking spaces available around the store
Payment Method
Cash only
Famous Menu Items
- Chuka Soba — ¥530
- Katsudon — ¥720
- Sunashi Chuka (酢なし中華)
Official Website
asahiya-ogaki.com