They were evacuated. But still opened a restaurant and gave back

Imagine being forced from your home in the same week you wanted to open a new restaurant.

That was the reality for Roy Okada and Shelly Hamasaki, the co-owners of Ramen Arashi Kelowna.

The comforting Japanese spot was set to open its doors just as wildfires tore through the Central Okanagan, forcing thousands - including the West Kelowna couple - from their homes.

But that didn’t deter the pair from not only opening the restaurant, but also giving back to the community. They were offering free ramen to evacuees and emergency teams.

“That actually helped us, and it kept us motivated,” Okada told Big Ginger from 103.1 Beach Radio. “And we appreciated all the kindness from the Kelowna community, and we never felt stressed at all.”

The pair long wanted to open a ramen shop in Kelowna, inspired by a generous chef at another restaurant.

“One night, I visited my wife Shelly’s work, and the owner offered me free ramen,” he explained. “It was amazing and took me back to my home of Japan. I begged him to teach me how to cook ramen like that. We also really loved Kelowna and wanted to move here, so now we are here.”

The menu is concise but deep with flavour.

Roy’s favourite: Arashi Tan Tan.

“It is creamy and has a thick pork broth,” he said. “If you like peanuts or pork you should try this.”

Ramen Arashi is located at 1884 Dayton Street in the Landmark District.