There’s a new operation in Victoria, BC which is designed to feed the hungry instant ramen enthusiast and also sell geeky wares. Otaki has over 30 flavours from Yamadai, and it all comes courtesy of the stock that the sister operation, Sakura Grocery, has. The plan is to provide even more brands from other parts of Southern Asia so that those hungry asian noodle eaters will say this shop is the place to go to find that comfort food from home.

Besides Oni Oni, which is a convenience store that sells delicious rice balls, the decision to open another operation was in response to the pandemic. Some folks wanted something to do. Although that time is behind us, these individuals didn’t quit these hobbies. That’s the reason this store is stocking up on those bestsellers and will consider how to expand from there. Because some folks are lazy to cook, instant ramen became all the rage for some self isolating, and as for what other instant goods one wants depends on who you ask.

And it was tough for Hyoga Onda, the store manager, to figure out what to bring in besides this food item. The decision to start stelling toys was because everyone kept asking about it over at Oni Oni. The selection there is limited to knock off posters and some trinkets. But to really satisfy the hard core meant bringing in stuff people can build with their hands, or do more with. A window dressing can only go so far.

He said, “So to make everybody happy, I’m trying to stay on top of trends as much as possible, and I can guarantee that my stock will always rotate.”

The implication is that this store will offer more than plastic models for people to play with. There may well be action figures next, or trading card games, like a certain infamous one that has different printings available. But what’s important for this store’s success is in what Onda believes in. “I’m going to focus more on the heritage and knowing the history of the anime products I sell. Providing excellent customer service is significant.” 

He is also confident this new store will be good for the community. He knows there’s people here who love to try out new Japanese goods. Not only is it rare for a small city to have a store like this to cater to anime fans, especially those who love their ramen, but also to have operations who know their clientele by name when they walk through the door, speaks volumes. But as any business operator knows, it’s those returning loyal customers who keep these stores chugging along, which brings smiles all around.