If you’re looking for a new local restaurant to try, you’re in luck. Recently opened in the Village Del Amo, Marugame Udon is a Japanese cuisine restaurant that serves udon bowls, tempura, rice bowls, and an assortment of beverages. It was the first to open in the string of new restaurants in that area, and has recently been followed by two restaurants right next door — Board & Brew, and The Kebab Shop.

   Arguably, one of the key factors that determines whether a restaurant is worth a re-visit has nothing to do with the food and everything to do with ambiance. Factors like an uncomfortable or stuffy atmosphere could impact the likelihood of return. Marugame Udon more than exceeded expectations on this front. With a theater kitchen, guests can see their food made in real time. Coupled with the vibrant, colorful wallpaper, and the light, airy feel of the restaurant, there’s little to possibly complain about. 

   Rey De La Torre (12), who has frequented the restaurant several times, commented, “Definitely the ambiance is something that I truly do like.” In addition, De La Torre noted, “I think that the food is also extremely good and that the workers there are just to die for. . . they always greet you, they always say goodbye.” A great restaurant is made up of things beyond just their food. Small things, but things that when put together, determine if it will be an enjoyable experience or not.

   Don’t get me wrong, however. The food at Marugame is also amazing. Sasha Rogala (12), who has eaten at the restaurant several times, shared that one of her favorite dishes from Marugame is the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, expressing her enthusiasm for a new local udon spot in Torrance: “I’m really excited about it . . . I’d never had udon before, and then we came here . . . it got me into it now and it’s great.”

*The opinions expressed in our Opinion articles are the author’s own and do not necessarily express the views of the Signals Staff or West High as a whole.