The Secret of Yugawara
Nestled in the quaint onsen town of Yugawara, Japan, lies a culinary gem that defies its diminutive size. Wanchan (王ちゃん), a tiny 7-seater restaurant, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and travelers alike, thanks to its legendary chef, 85-year-old Wanchan himself (a nickname comes from his love of baseball, but that's another story). With a dedication to his craft that spans decades, Wanchan diligently cooks each customer's meal one by one, ensuring that every dish that leaves his kitchen is nothing short of perfection.
While Wanchan's culinary repertoire is diverse, it is his mastery of two iconic dishes that has earned him widespread acclaim: ramen and Katsudon. Visitors flock from far and wide to sample these culinary delights, knowing that they are about to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other.
Best in the World
The ramen at Wangchan is a symphony of flavors and textures, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From the rich, savory broth to the perfectly cooked noodles, each component of this beloved dish is a testament to Wanchan's culinary prowess. Whether topped with tender slices of pork, crisp vegetables, or a perfectly boiled egg, every bowl of ramen at Wanchan is a work of art, leaving diners craving more with each slurp.
However, it is Wanchan's Katsudon that truly steals the show. Tender, juicy pork cutlets are coated in a crisp, golden-brown crust before being simmered in a luscious sauce and served atop a bed of fluffy rice. The result is a dish that is as comforting as it is flavorful, earning Wanchan the title of serving the best Katsudon in Japan, and by extension, the world.
(a little secret, on the rare days that the Katsu Curry is available, forget everything above and get that)
A Meal Fit For A King (王)
But Wanchan's culinary skills aren't only part of what makes this restaurant so special. The intimate setting, with its cozy atmosphere and personalized service, creates a dining experience that is both charming and unforgettable. In a world where fast-paced, mass-produced food has become the norm, Wanchan stands as a beacon of tradition and excellence. Here, diners can savor the true essence of Japanese cuisine, lovingly prepared by a master chef whose passion knows no bounds. For those fortunate enough to dine at Wanchan, it is an experience that will linger in the memory long after the last bite has been savored.
M▲P Markers are part of an ongoing series where we feature places from our deeply curated EXP. Journeys maps, found here:
