Opening
This time, we visited a restaurant located right at the entrance of Zushi Marina, in front of Kotsubo Fishing Port.
The place is called “Fisherman’s Restaurant Masakarimaru.”
What makes it special is that it’s actually run by an active fisherman.
And their signature dish is something a little unusual: Mekabu Ramen.
“Ramen with mekabu seaweed? What does that even taste like?”
That curiosity brought us here… and it turned out to be far better than we imagined.
A bowl of ramen filled with the flavor of the sea, paired with a fresh local fish marinated rice bowl.
Along with the cozy atmosphere and the view of the fishing port, this restaurant perfectly captures the charm of Kotsubo.
In this article, we’ll share the highlights from our visit, from the Hayama Navi perspective.
Highlight ①: “Mekabu Ramen” That Changes Your Idea of Ramen
The must-try dish here is their famous Mekabu Ramen.
The moment the bowl arrives at your table, you’ll be surprised.
The surface of the ramen is completely covered with mekabu and wakame seaweed.
The appearance is quite striking, but once you taste it, the flavor is incredibly gentle.
The soup is a light soy sauce base, combined with the natural umami of seaweed and the silky texture of mekabu, giving it a broth-like depth.
There’s also a small portion of plum paste in the center. When mixed in halfway through the bowl, it adds a refreshing acidity that keeps the flavors interesting until the last bite.
To be honest, I first thought it would be a “healthy-style ramen”…
But it was far more satisfying than expected — I finished every drop of the soup!
Apparently no animal fat is used, which explains why people often call it a guilt-free ramen.
Highlight ②: Fresh Local Fish “Fisherman’s Marinated Rice Bowl”
Another specialty here is the Fisherman’s Marinated Fish Bowl.
The biggest appeal of this dish is that it uses local fish caught in Kotsubo.
The types of fish change depending on the day’s catch, but they often include:
• Horse mackerel
• Flounder
• Red gurnard
and other seasonal fish.
The fish is marinated in a savory sauce and served with a rich egg yolk mixed in.
The freshness of the fish really stands out — it reminded me that restaurants right by the fishing port are truly something special.
If you want both ramen and the rice bowl, there’s also a Mekabu Ramen & Mini Marinated Fish Bowl Set (1,400 yen)! Perfect for someone like me who wants to try everything!
Highlight ③: Three Commitments You’d Expect From a Fisherman’s Restaurant
Inside the restaurant, a small sign explains the philosophy behind their food.
① Eggs: “Atom-kun” brand eggs from Yokosuka
These rich eggs are fortified with iron and bring extra depth to the flavor of the marinated fish bowl.
② Noodles: Made by Hoeido Seimen in Kamakura
This noodle maker has been operating since 1953. Their slightly curly thin noodles pair perfectly with the silky texture of mekabu.
③ Their own fishing boat, “Masakarimaru”
The boat departs daily from Kotsubo Fishing Port, and some of the fish served here may have been caught the very same day.
Knowing the story behind the ingredients makes the meal feel even more special.
When you can see the story behind a restaurant, a single bowl of ramen somehow feels even more memorable.
(Source: In-store display)
Highlight ④: Counter Seats With a View of the Fishing Port
From the outside, the restaurant looks like a small fisherman’s hut.
But once you step inside, you’ll find a bright and welcoming space with plenty of windows.
The most recommended spot is the counter seats facing the fishing port.
Right in front of you is the sea of Kotsubo Fishing Port.
You can relax and enjoy your meal while watching the harbor.
Eating ramen while looking out at the ocean somehow turns lunch into a really special moment.
Baby & Family Note
The restaurant has a compact layout with counter seats and a few tables.
It’s unclear whether strollers can be brought inside,
but if you visit slightly outside the busy lunch hours, it seems like a comfortable place for families.
Since the number of seats is limited, there may be a wait during peak times.
Dog Information
Whether dogs are allowed is currently unconfirmed.
However, the Kotsubo Fishing Port area is a popular walking route,
so enjoying takeout or relaxing on a nearby bench could also be a nice option.
Access Information
Fisherman’s Restaurant Masakarimaru
Address
4-5-1 Kotsubo, Zushi City, Kanagawa
Opening Hours
11:00 – 15:00
Closed
Monday / Tuesday
Parking
None
Phone
046-733-5056
@kotsubo_totomatsuri
Business hours may change, so please check before visiting.
(Source: Tabelog)
Summary: A Bowl of Ramen That Captures the Spirit of the Fishing Port
“Fisherman’s Restaurant Masakarimaru,” located right in front of Kotsubo Fishing Port.
Here you can enjoy
Mekabu ramen packed with the umami of seaweed
and
a fresh local fish marinated rice bowl.
It may not be flashy, but
it’s a place where you can truly taste the ingredients and atmosphere of a fishing port.
Lunch with a view of the ocean
is something both visitors and locals can enjoy.
When exploring Hayama or Zushi, finding a place like this that feels truly local is always special.
Hayama Navi will continue introducing wonderful restaurants around
Hayama, Zushi, and Akiya.
We update Instagram almost every day, so come join the Hayama Navi community and give us a follow!
Hello, this is Peli from Hayama Navi!
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