Nice to meet you.
My name is Koichi Nishida, the representative of Ajino Shukaijo Uonobu Co., Ltd.
As the second-generation owner of Uonobu, a restaurant founded by my parents, I serve the people of our local community every day.
About four years ago, we welcomed Harada Tofu, a tofu maker with over 80 years of history, onto our property, and I have taken over the business as the fourth-generation Harada Tofu craftsman.
The history of Uonobu began in May 1967, when my mother, Nobuko, opened a 4-tsubo (about 13㎡) fresh fish store in the corner of a supermarket in Iwazu-cho, Okazaki City.
The name “Uonobu” comes from my mother’s name, Nobuko, the founder.
In fact, I was born on April 26, 1967 — just one week before the opening of Uonobu.
So, my age and the number of years Uonobu has been in business are exactly the same.
My mother didn’t just run a fish shop; she also turned the second floor of our home into a traditional tatami room and offered meals.
Looking back, I realize how innovative it was to create delicious dishes using the fresh fish she sourced — ensuring nothing went to waste.
In 1985, we closed the fish shop and opened the current Ajino Shukaijo Uonobu in Inaguma-cho, a banquet hall capable of hosting up to 150 guests.
There was a clear reason why my parents established such a large-scale restaurant.
They didn’t want it to be just a place to satisfy hunger — but a warm, welcoming space where people could gather, smile, and enjoy meals together.
What they valued most was not large-scale parties, but intimate family gatherings.
Whether celebrating the growth of a beloved child, honoring the longevity of parents, or simply enjoying a family meal — they wanted Uonobu to be a destination for those precious moments. That spirit lives on in the name “Ajino Shukaijo”, meaning “A Place to Gather Over Flavor.”
Now, 58 years since its founding and 40 years as a restaurant, the food industry has evolved with the times.
But thanks to the ongoing support of our local community, we continue to thrive — a testament to my mother’s curiosity, courage, and action.
At the heart of everything is our deep desire to bring joy to our customers.
Uonobu’s cuisine is rooted in our origins as a fishmonger.
We use only the freshest seafood and prepare each dish with care and dedication — a true expression of the founder’s personality and passion.
My mother, Nobuko, passed peacefully last year at the age of 81.
But we will continue to honor the traditional Japanese culinary culture centered around fish that she cherished.
Now, the third generation, whom she raised with love, is pursuing his path as the manager of “Uonobu Shokudo” in Idashin-machi.
The Uonobu story continues — together with the people of our region.
