Taka
and Charlotte Nakamoto opened Momiji Japanese Restaurant
and Bar in August 2003.
In Japanese,
the word Momiji is the name of a tree, the Japanese Maple. This
tree is particularly beautiful in the autumn, when the leaves
change colour. Japanese people enjoy making trips to areas of
natural beauty, to view the autumn leaves. Miyajima Island, near
the city of Hiroshima, is so famous for its dramatic autumn views,
that the MOMIJI leaf has become a symbol of the Hiroshima region.
The name "Momiji" was chosen because Taka is originally from
Hiroshima and Charlotte spent a number of years there.
Many
people are surprised to find a Japanese restaurant in the
small Norfolk market Town of Harleston and tend to ask
"Why Harleston?". The choice of location is not quite as
random as it may seem as Charlotte is originally from nearby
Bungay, and while living in London she and Taka would
often come back to this part of the country to visit family
and friends. The idea of introducing a completely new type
of dining to the area was really appealing to Taka and
Charlotte and since opening they are pleased to have gained
so many loyal customers.