Interview with Kawahara Ryo, staff member of Kawahara
With a fresh start in a new location and building, Sanuki udon Kawahara has begun anew.
I spoke with Kawahara Ryo about the reasons for the relocation, the new store's features, changes in mindset, and future prospects.
This interview is based on the initial coverage conducted in June 2021.
About the relocation and new construction of the store
Why did you relocate and build a new store?
Kawahara
The main reason is cost.
The previous store was a rental property, so as long as we continued to operate, we had to pay rent.
On the other hand, if the store owns the land and builds its own building, while there is an initial purchase cost, once that is paid off, there are no further expenses.
After consulting with the financial institutions we are indebted to, I thought that if the rent and purchase costs were about the same, it would be better to own our own land and store.
Around that time, construction on the prefectural road in front of the old store was decided.
It was said that the construction would take about two years, which seemed likely to affect the store's operations.
So, we decided to take the plunge and relocate.
If possible, we wanted to move to an area in Mabi that has heavy traffic, close to a main road.
We found the current location and decided to relocate.
The old store operated until May 6, 2021, and we started operations at the new store on May 19.
The new store's commitment to two different atmospheres
What are the features and commitments of the new store?
Kawahara
Basically, the menu is the same as the old store.
We had takeout even during the old store's time, but the takeout containers have changed.
Due to the spread of the novel coronavirus, the demand for takeout has increased.
So, we changed the containers to ensure that customers can enjoy delicious udon even when taking it home.
You can enjoy hot udon even if you eat it right away in your car!
The seating in the store is the same with counter, table, and tatami mat seating, but the number of tatami mat seats has increased.
Also, we have put effort into the design of the store.
Mainly, my mother, who works as a staff member, came up with the design.
The design point is that the atmosphere is different between the entrance side and the back side.
The entrance side has a basic atmosphere, while the back side has a bright Japanese-style ambiance with beams and skylights.
Even if you order the same udon, you can enjoy it in a different atmosphere depending on whether you eat on the entrance side or the back side!
I hope you enjoy your meal in various seats.
Additionally, we aimed for a homey and bright atmosphere that is easy for first-time visitors to enter.
I would be happy if passersby feel free to visit us.
Realizing the difficulty of maintaining a consistent level every day
It has been about two and a half years since I became involved in running the udon shop (at the time of the interview in 2021), have there been any changes in mindset?
Kawahara
When I was interviewed by "Kurashiki Tocotoco" at the old store, I had just started getting involved in the operation of the shop.
I was in a situation where I didn't know right from left, and every day was a repetition of learning and practice.
I was overwhelmed with the tasks in front of me and memorizing things.
I think I didn't have any mental space.
Now, I can do the tasks and what needs to be done.
I have gained some mental space and may be able to think from a slightly broader perspective.
And now, I feel the difficulty of repeating what I have learned every day while maintaining a consistent level.
I have realized the greatness of my father, who performs the same level of work every day.
Also, customers have started to casually call out to me as their usual staff member.
I feel that my presence has become established in the shop (laughs).
Continuing to provide delicious udon cheerfully and energetically
Please tell us about your future prospects and what you would like to try.
Kawahara
I want to continue firmly doing our shop's concept of "providing delicious udon cheerfully and energetically".
We are also thoroughly implementing measures against the spread of the novel coronavirus so that customers can use our services with peace of mind.
As mentioned earlier, we have changed the containers for takeout so that they can be enjoyed deliciously, so please give takeout a try.
Also, if the situation with the coronavirus settles down, I would like to consider new menu items!
A bustling Sanuki udon Kawahara with many customers from regulars to first-time visitors
The store has been newly established, but when you visit Kawahara, the cheerful voice of "Welcome" still resonates, and it gives the same impression of Kawahara as always.
Of course, the taste of the udon was just as delicious as before.
Additionally, with more tatami mat seating, it should be easier to visit with children and elderly people.
Please be sure to visit Kawahara, which is operating cheerfully and energetically at the new store.
Data on Sanuki udon Kawahara
| Name | Sanuki udon Kawahara |
|---|---|
| Address | 1810-3 Kawabe, Mabi-cho, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 0866-98-8286 |
| Parking | Available |
| Business Hours | 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Regular Holidays | Monday If Monday is a holiday, open until 3:00 PM |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation Availability | Yes Reservations may not be possible during busy times Advance reservations are recommended for takeout |
| Seating | Total 56 seats ・Counter: 10 seats ・2-person table seats: 2 tables ・4-person table seats: 4 tables ・2-person tatami mat seats: 3 tables ・4-person tatami mat seats: 2 tables ・6-person tatami mat seats: 2 tables |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Childcare | Strollers allowed Children's utensils available Children's chairs available |
| Barrier-Free | Wheelchair accessible Toilet is not wheelchair accessible |
| Website | Official website of Sanuki udon Kawahara |
