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bowl of takoyaki
June 24, 2025

Essential Natsu Matsuri Meals You Need to Try

bowl of ramen and chirashi sushi

Summer in Japan is more than just fireworks and festivals.

They are a sensory experience filled with color, tradition, and, of course, incredible food. Natsu Matsuri, or Japanese summer festivals, are beloved for bringing communities together through dance, games, and the irresistible aromas of street food. Even if you can’t hop on a plane to Japan this season, you can still indulge in the flavors that make this time of year so special right here at your favorite Houston ramen restaurant. At Tamashi, we may not host a full matsuri (yet!), but we’re all about bringing the heart of Japanese summer to our tables. So whether you’re strolling into our ramen restaurant near you in Houston for a bowl of slurp-worthy noodles or seeking the perfect sushi near you in Houston, we’ve curated a list of must-try dishes that capture the season's spirit.

Natsu Matsuri Dishes You Cant Miss

Takoyaki (Octopus Balls)

Soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and topped with dancing bonito flakes, takoyaki is a festival staple for a reason. These little bites of joy are made with diced octopus, batter, green onions, and pickled ginger, grilled into round perfection. Drizzled with mayo and a special savory sauce, they’re one of those things you can’t stop at just one.

Tamashi’s version is made fresh, hot, and oh-so-satisfying. They’re the kind of comfort food you crave even when it’s 95 degrees outside. And isn’t that the best kind?

Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

There’s something magical about noodles sizzling on a flat top, coated in a slightly sweet, tangy sauce, and finished with crunchy vegetables and thinly sliced meat. Yakisoba is a summertime favorite you’ll see steaming away at festival stalls all over Japan.

While Tamashi is best known as a Houston ramen restaurant, we want to show our love for every kind of noodle! When you’re in the mood for something a little smoky and stir-fried, yakisoba is your summer go-to.

Grilled Yakitori (Chicken Skewers)

The smoky scent of yakitori on a charcoal grill is the true aroma of a Japanese summer night. Juicy pieces of chicken, brushed with a glaze of soy sauce, sake, and sugar, are skewered and grilled to perfection.

Although we’re a ramen restaurant near you in Houston, our appreciation for these savory skewers is unmatched. They make the perfect side to a cold beer or a bowl of warm noodles.

Sushi and Sashimi

You didn’t think we’d forget about sushi, did you? Cool, delicate, and crafted with care, sushi and sashimi are refreshing bites that offer balance to all the fried and grilled delights of a festival.

If you’re looking for sushi near you in Houston, Tamashi’s curated platters are the perfect mix of tradition and creativity. From classic salmon to exciting rolls, there’s something for every sushi lover to enjoy, especially during those hot summer days!

Natsu Matsuri-Inspired Treats at Tamashi

While you may not find goldfish scooping or paper fan painting at Tamashi, what you will find is the same sense of joy and community that festivals are all about. Our team is passionate about serving you food that makes you feel the nostalgia, excitement, and warmth a Natsu Matsuri can bring. Seasonal food is at the heart of Japanese culture, and Natsu Matsuri is the perfect excuse to indulge in the dishes that make summer unforgettable. At Tamashi, your local Houston ramen restaurant, we celebrate that spirit through every carefully prepared bowl and beautifully plated roll. Whether you’re in the mood for takoyaki, ramen, or sushi near you in Houston, we’re here to bring a little taste of Japan’s summer magic to your day. Come visit any of our locations and see why these classic flavors are a staple!
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Tamashi is dedicated to serving all our guests with quality dishes that taste fresh and made-to-order.

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