Tajima Ramen Opens Sixth Location During Shutdown

Opened just days after restaurants were banned from offering dine-in service, which was also the week that San Diego State University shut down most of its campus, Tajima’s newest location in the College Area made its debut at a less-than-optimal time. Since its quiet opening, the ramen shop — Tajima’s sixth overall in San Diego — has been operating for takeout via walk-in or online orders and delivery through UberEats, DoorDash, Postmates and GrubHub.

Tajima’s five other local outposts, in the East Village, Hillcrest, North Park, and two in Kearny Mesa, have also been kept open for takeout and delivery, with owner Sam Morikizono providing substantial discounts on food, including family meal options, to his employees.

Though the COVID-19 crisis has derailed many new restaurant projects across the city, Morikizono is moving forward with his latest, a fried chicken shop coming to East Village. Replacing Cafe Chloe, Corner Chicken is slated to launch within three to four weeks. The fast-casual eatery has shifted its business model with the times, and will open with only takeout and delivery.