Long-running Japanese restaurant in Merced closing its doors. ‘Been coming here forever’

Nagame, the oldest and arguably the best Japanese restaurant in Merced, soon will be closing its doors.

Co-owner Mary Mochihashi said Nagame will permanently close July 31, citing a desire for her and her husband to retire.

“It’s time for us,” Mochihashi said. “My husband is 74 years old and has worked 12 hours day, 7 days a week for many, many years.

“We’ve been in this a long time.”

Nagame, located near a southbound Highway 99 entrance at 2650 W. 16th St., has been open since 1984. It was listed on the internet as one of nine Japanese restaurants currently in Merced.

Despite a modest exterior and a somewhat isolated location, Nagame was considered a Merced staple and offered authentic Japanese food.

Among the favorite dishes to order is the Nagame’s special combination dinner, consisting of beef teriyaki, chicken teriyaki and shrimp tempura, along with Tsukemono (pickled vegetables), sunomono soup, rice and green tea.

Nagame did not serve sushi, but offered sashimi.

One review posted on Yelp highlighted the nostaglia of eating at Nagame.

“Been coming here forever with my Grandfather,” a Yelp review read. “It hasn’t changed, and that’s what I appreciate.

“It’s like I get to eat with him all over again, even though he is (no) longer (here). The sesame chicken is my favorite, but honestly everything is the best.”

Mochihashi declined to elaborate further about the restaurant’s future.

“We just want to go out quietly,” Mochihashi said.

Except, word of Nagame’s looming closure quickly generated outcry of support online, with many complimenting the restaurant’s food and service.

“So sad,” a posting of Facebook read. ”Love the food and family.”

Another post read: “This place has the best food in Merced County, and I think they are a real hidden gem.”

This story was originally published June 26, 2025 at 9:24 AM.