Japanese Breakfasts by Day, Ramen by Night at Okonomi
Situated in New York, this restaurant offers variations on rice bowls for lunch and fish-based ramen for dinner.
© George Padila
In Williamsburg (Brooklyn), the New York neighbourhood that’s home to numerous restaurants, Okonomi stands out thanks to its menu and the experience that comes with it. To minimise waste, the restaurant has also adopted the mottainai philosophy.
‘One soup and three dishes’
During the day, the small restaurant with just twelve seats offers rice, fresh fish from the Atlantic, omelette (tamago) and marinated vegetables (tsukemono) like cucumber, aubergine and white radish. It adheres to the rule of ichiju sansai, which literally translates as ‘one soup and three dishes’, but which consists of serving a bowl of rice accompanied by three varied small dishes.
When the sun sets, Okonomi gives way to YUJI Ramen, which showcases fish ramen. The concept was initially developed at markets and in bars, and has now found a permanent home.
More information on Okonomi can be found on the restaurant’s website.
© George Padila
© Yuji Ramen
© George Padila
© George Padila
TRENDING
-
Gashadokuro, the Legend of the Starving Skeleton
This mythical creature, with a thirst for blood and revenge, has been a fearsome presence in Japanese popular culture for centuries.
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
The Tradition of the Black Eggs of Mount Hakone
In the volcanic valley of Owakudani, curious looking black eggs with beneficial properties are cooked in the sulphurous waters.
-
Recipe for Ichiraku Ramen from ‘Naruto’ by Danielle Baghernejad
Taken from the popular manga with the character of the same name who loves ramen, this dish is named after the hero's favourite restaurant.
-
Tatsuro Yamashita, King of City Pop
The visionary pop singer and producer, who endowed the Japanese tech-boom as a utopian escape for future generations.