Most restaurant owners can point to one specific reason behind the name for their business. But when talking about the meaning of Narruto Bowl, a new eatery in Teaneck, the owners have a couple answers. The name comes from both a traditional Japanese earthenware cooking pot, as well as a particularly popular anime character; one that loves to eat ramen.
But don’t think Narruto Bowl is just some ramen shop. Co-owners Joshua Massin and Jason Rosenblatt offer a diverse menu; one which includes a mix of Asian and Latin American street foods, soul foods, comfort foods, and homestyle cooking. In addition, Narruto Bowl is a kosher restaurant with a rabbi on site.
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Narruto Bowl Subverts Expectations
Despite the menu’s cultural roots, one critique by guests is that the restaurant is not as authentic as they expect. Massin admits this is true, but also, that it is intentional. “We’re not Korean, we’re not Japanese, we’re not ramen, we’re not dim sum,” he says. “We’re Narruto. We don’t claim to be authentic. We pay homage to all these cuisines.” Massin is also executive chef and owner of Nobo Wine & Grill in Teaneck.
Narruto Bowl replaces Apple Asian Express in a 2,500-square foot space, however, the kitchen and interior are completely remodeled. They can seat 60 outdoors beneath a tent, meanwhile their indoor dining seats 64 when at full capacity. “We have the simplicity of a Japanese restaurant and splashes of loud color, graffiti art, and anime on the walls reflecting Latin American and Asian influences,” Massin says.
While many businesses were delaying their plans due to COVID-19, Narruto Bowl took the opposite approach. In fact, Massin says he was confident he could make the restaurant successful quickly during the pandemic. Turns out, he was right; whereas some restaurants take months or years to turn a profit, Narruto Bowl has done so in 1.5 months. In addition, they’ve done so without being open on Fridays and Saturdays (when Shabbat falls), two typically crucial earning days. Instead, they draw their largest crowds on Thursdays and Sundays.
A Menu Made for More than Manga Fans
Narruto Bowl makes everything from scratch, including their sauces. They offer small bites like kimchee, spicy fried cashews, and fried shishito peppers. Rosenblatt says the current popular dishes include the crispy Korean hot chicken, chicken-stuffed pot stickers, and bao bites. Of course, a highlight of the menu are the bowls. These let you choose your carb (ramen, rice noodles, sticky rice, or udon), broth (chicken, beef, veal, duck, or tofu), and protein (vegan, red curry, green curry).
You can find Narruto Bowl at 461 Cedar Ln in Teaneck. Look for them online to find their menu, hours, and other info.
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All Photos: © Narruto Bowl