Nodaya Udon and Soba shop 野田屋 横須賀

I haven't used the term "landmark" on this blog that often. In fact I think this may be the first time. But a tiny little place that's been in business for 33 years and run by a sweet lady is most deserving of landmark status in my book.

Blue Noren

Nodaya Udon and Soba shop is a fun experience and you could very likely make a new friend during your visit. Actually there are a few ways to make a friend here. The first is because the place is tiny and if anyone else is in the restaurant with you you're sure to leave as friends! On my first visit I was lucky to get a stool but could not sit with my legs toward the counter because they wouldn't fit. My right side back against the wall already, there was no way the knees were going to swing into position lest I did some splits. Yes, Nodaya noodle shop is very small.

The second way you'll make a friend is because the chef and owner - Keko-san - is sure to win your heart.  She is very kind, will help you make the right choice on the menu, and will certainly make you feel comfortable. She speaks a little English too so don't be afraid to step into this great little place.

Bring a friend to Nodaya, but the place will likely max out at six people. (If you get more than six in there let me know please and capture with photo). There are only a few stools and you could find yourself standing, but hey that's the way it is at many lunchtime eateries in Japan and it just adds to the charm of Nodaya. But don't limit yourself to lunch. She is open from about 6:30 in the morning until 5:30 pm. If the blue noren are hanging, she's open!

At 33 years, Nodaya Noodle shop has a bit of history to it you could safely say. If only the walls could talk. Of course it make sense that part of that history involves the U.S. Navy.

Like an archeologist digging through history, I've spent countless nights in the musky basement of the Yokosuka library looking through historical microfiche (redundant, I know) archives. So far I've learned that a strong Navy/Nodaya relationship was started in the early 90's when a man, now retired Captain Tim Tomson, was the CTF 70 N3 (that's the Director of Operations). He was quite busy (an understatement I'm sure) during his tour, but whenever he was back in Yokosuka he was a frequent visitor to Nodaya Udon and Soba shop.   Captain Tomson was an A-6 Intruder pilot.

At around 1995 Captain Tim Tomson introduced then Captain Tom Fellin (also an A-6 pilot) to Nodaya. Captain Tom Fellin was the N3 at Commander 7th Fleet (C7F) in 1995/96. Tom and Tim both served together as A-6 pilots back in the 80s and of course they'd frequently interact during their N3 tours in Yokosuka.  They would both descend upon the noodle shop and make like a carrier landing on that tiny little flight deck of the counter.

Later Captain Fellin (who is now a retired RADM) was the Commanding Officer of the USS Independence in 1996 and 1997.  He and his wife were frequent visitors to Nodaya noodle shop - and became friends with the the proprietor Keko in the way that only foreigners are able to form a bond, despite the language barrier. The shop was quite popular with the Independence crew as well, Keko tells me, albeit only a few at a time.


Perhaps we can continue this "tradition" where the Admirals and CO's come on by and visit Keko-san? She is so proud to have good Navy friends and you'll certainly brighten her day.

Then Captain Fellin, Keko, and Captain Fellin's kind note

Nodaya Noodles is located about a half block off Blue Street and right across from Delicious Indian Restaurant.  You can find it on the blog map.

You can see from the two photos above that her counter really hasn't changed. The towel, the plates, eggs, and tempura all locked in time. Another thing that hasn't really changed are her prices. Behind Captain Fellin in the above photo are a few menu items on the wall. A quick comparison shows that today's prices are now only 10Yen higher! 17 years - 10yen increase. Did I mention this is a great deal?

Pictures of some of the menus are posted below. Keep in mind Keko keeps a full English menu in a book under the TV so you will have no problem ordering here.  The "No. 1" is a curry udon or soba for 520 Yen.

A soba set

Curry Rice - 430Yen

One page of the full English menu with explanations

Set meals

Keko-san preparing lunch and a few other menu items on the wall

I recommend you try Nodaya with your friends or visiting relatives. See what dining in a true local neighborhood place is all about.  Maybe even leave Keko a note, she'll love it!

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