Tucked into a quaint blue cottage in the row of shops at Grayton Beach is Nanbu Noodle Bar, a brand new restaurant that’s bursting with international flavor. Nanbu means “Southerner” in Japanese, and this hip new restaurant evokes every ounce of southern hospitality with high-quality service and food. Described by the creator, Chef Nikhil Abuvala, as “high pulse,” Nanbu Noodle Bar is trendy and feels as if it was plucked out of a big city and carefully placed into our coastal corner. While it may seem unassuming on the outside, once inside restaurant goers will be pleasantly surprised by its high energy, artsy decor, and modern vibe. It’s a place where locals and tourists alike can grab a beer, eat some seriously good food, and enjoy each other’s company in a fun setting.
The menu is small, but direct, featuring fresh ingredients with a heavy Japanese focus. Small bites include sweet blistered shishito peppers, a daily selection of dumplings, and pork belly steamed buns to die for. The buns are soft and the pork belly is tender, crisp radish adds some texture and they’re topped off with hoisin and sriracha, making these the perfect first bite.
A solid assortment of noodle bowls include proteins like tuna and salmon poke, miso pork, and Shoyu chicken. Soft boiled egg, scallion, cucumber, and pickled vegetables are all ingredients woven throughout traditional Japanese fare that act as complementary accompaniments. The broth is salty and flavorful and nobody will judge you if you drink up every last drop. The chef has truly found a way to take elevated food that may seem daunting and serve it in a familiar and unpretentious way.
The bar serves beer, wine, and a whole lot of sake. Try the flight of 4 different types of sake for $19 if you’re feeling adventurous! Stop in for happy hour between 3 pm to 5 pm, and again for late night deals between 9 pm and 11 pm. Aside from great prices on drinks, the Chinese 5 spice spare ribs alone are worth a visit and are only $5.
Nanbu Noodle Bar is a special place and a welcomed addition to our eclectic beach town. It’s fitting that Nanbu Noodle Bar found its home in the art district of Grayton, given that each item on the menu really is a culinary masterpiece. You too can find your home away from home in Grayton Beach when you stay in one of our esteemed rentals in the neighborhood. There’s plenty to do, see, and eat! All you have to do is get here.
