Tokyo’s Udon Gem: Maruka in Jimbocho – Sanuki Noodles, Killer Tempura, and a Jimi Hendrix Soundtrack

Overhead view of cold wakame udon noodles with kashiwa chicken tempura, chikuwa fish cake tempura, and a small dish of vinegar on a wooden tray.

My meeting today was in Jimbocho. This culturally rich Tokyo neighborhood is known for its universities, bookstores, curry shops, and record stores. For lunch, I, CityNomix, opted for something quintessentially Japanese yet with a unique twist: Sanuki udon. The place? Udon Maruka. It’s a name whispered with reverence among udon aficionados, a true institution. An Continue reading “Tokyo’s Udon Gem: Maruka in Jimbocho – Sanuki Noodles, Killer Tempura, and a Jimi Hendrix Soundtrack”

Nihonbashi’s Hidden Gem: Freshly Roasted Specialty Coffee on Demand at Yanaka Coffee

The verdant entrance of Ynaka Coffee, an urban cafe adorned with plants at its entryway.

An Aromatic Detour in the Heart of Nihonbashi It was late afternoon on a clear day. I had just finished a meeting in Nihonbashi and was heading home, a pleasant sense of accomplishment washing over me. As I stepped out from Hakkaisan’s Sennen Kojiya, a place I’d visited before, a rich, enticing aroma suddenly tickled Continue reading “Nihonbashi’s Hidden Gem: Freshly Roasted Specialty Coffee on Demand at Yanaka Coffee”

Nihonbashi Sake Discoveries: Tradition Meets Innovation at Hakkaisan Sennen Kojiya

A bottle of special junmai genshu sake, recommended to be chilled in the freezer for a sherbet-like texture.

The early summer sun cast a pleasant glow over Nihonbashi as I wrapped up a client meeting. My steps felt lighter, buoyed by the successful discussion. It was then that the crisp, clean taste of an Hakkaisan sake I’d recently enjoyed came to mind. “I believe there’s an Hakkaisan shop in COREDO Muromachi,” I mused. Continue reading “Nihonbashi Sake Discoveries: Tradition Meets Innovation at Hakkaisan Sennen Kojiya”

Ebisu’s Pizza Marumo: Tasting the World’s #3 Umami Pizza & Secret Desserts

Close-up shot of an Umami Pizza, topped with savory mackerel.

Braving the Ebisu Heat for a Slice of Heaven at Pizza Marumo That day in Tokyo felt like the rainy season had abruptly ended, replaced by a sweltering heatwave. The thermometer read 34°C (93°F), but the asphalt radiated an intensity that made it feel closer to 39°C (102°F). After a morning meeting, I found myself Continue reading “Ebisu’s Pizza Marumo: Tasting the World’s #3 Umami Pizza & Secret Desserts”

Punk Rock Soba in Hanzomon: Soba-Usa, A Culinary Experience Worth the Trip.

Close-up of unique basil soba noodles generously topped with vibrant green basil pesto.

An Oasis in Hanzomon After a Marathon Meeting The long, long meeting with the client finally ended. The clock showed 2:30 PM. I was at the peak of hunger and exhaustion, craving something to refuel my energy. Specifically, protein. Or perhaps my brain was actually craving carbs, but anyway, I needed an immediate vitality boost. Continue reading “Punk Rock Soba in Hanzomon: Soba-Usa, A Culinary Experience Worth the Trip.”

Notting Hill’s Beacon: Unearthing Treasures at Music & Video Exchange on My London Music Journey

Red sign of Music & Video Exchange, a second-hand record and CD store in Notting Hill.

The Bustle and Quiet of Notting Hill, and the Unwavering Pull of Music & Video Exchange Notting Hill, London. For many, the name evokes images of colorful terraced houses, the vibrant Portobello Market, and romantic scenes from the eponymous film. However, for me, CityNomix, this neighborhood holds an even deeper significance. Ever since my student Continue reading “Notting Hill’s Beacon: Unearthing Treasures at Music & Video Exchange on My London Music Journey”

Unearthing Sonic Treasures in Soho: A Vintage Record & Cassette Hunt at Rough Trade Vingtage, London

Black sign for Rough Trade Vintage record store in Soho, located beside a staircase leading to the basement under the rag & bone shop.

Hello Photomo readers, CityNomix here. While my days are often spent navigating the world of digital marketing, my weekends are dedicated to exploring cities, camera in hand. Through Photomo, I aim to share the cultural gems I unearth, offering a unique perspective on “Walk, Shoot, Write.” This time, I’m taking you to a special record Continue reading “Unearthing Sonic Treasures in Soho: A Vintage Record & Cassette Hunt at Rough Trade Vingtage, London”

Finding Authentic Rock ‘n’ Roll: My Journey to Third Man Records London in SOHO

Yellow exterior of Third Man Records

Hello, this is CityNomix from Photomo. My work in digital marketing often takes me exploring cities, both at home and abroad, where I love to uncover local culture. Today, I’m excited to share my experience visiting a place deeply connected to my musical roots: Third Man Records London, the London outpost of the label founded Continue reading “Finding Authentic Rock ‘n’ Roll: My Journey to Third Man Records London in SOHO”

An Unexpected Gig: My SOFY In-Store Live Experience at Rough Trade West, Notting Hill

Exterior of Rough Trade West record store in London, with a sign indicating an in-store live performance by SOFY.

Arrival in London and a Notting Hill Evening Stroll On November 11, 2023, as evening began to settle, I made my way from Heathrow Airport to central London via the Tube. However, I was immediately met with a classic London challenge: many stations lacked elevators. Hauling a heavy suitcase up and down stairs was more Continue reading “An Unexpected Gig: My SOFY In-Store Live Experience at Rough Trade West, Notting Hill”

Phonica Records: A Soho Vinyl Haven for Dance Music & Rare Cassettes in London

Exterior of Phonica Records on Poland Street in Soho, London.

A Beacon for Music Explorers in the Bustle of Soho Hello, I’m CityNomix. Stepping away from the digital marketing hustle, I immerse myself in the pulse of the streets. This time, my journey led me to Poland Street in London’s vibrant Soho district. It was just after 6 PM on November 17, 2024, under a Continue reading “Phonica Records: A Soho Vinyl Haven for Dance Music & Rare Cassettes in London”