Matzoh Ball Ramen - Shark Tank Update

Husband-and-wife chefs Sawako “Sawa” Okochi and Aaron Israel stepped into the Tank seeking $200,000 for 20% equity in their business built around the Matzoh Ball Ramen Kit, a take-home version of their signature dish from their acclaimed Brooklyn restaurant, Shalom Japan. The kit fuses Japanese and Jewish culinary traditions, offering customers an easy way to prepare restaurant-quality matzoh ball ramen at home.

Despite the creative concept and the couple’s culinary pedigree, the Sharks were concerned about the company’s modest $17,000 in sales, noting that the restaurant’s success hadn’t yet translated into meaningful product growth. Barbara Corcoran, however, had previously dined at Shalom Japan and praised their food and talent.

She expressed interest in the brand but envisioned a more scalable opportunity-such as a food truck concept.

Ultimately, Barbara offered $200,000 for 30% equity, contingent on Cousins Maine Lobster partnering with her to help guide the business. The founders happily accepted, sealing a deal that could take their fusion cuisine from Brooklyn’s kitchens to tables nationwide.

The deal with Barbara and Cousins Maine Lobster hasn't been confirmed yet. In a statement to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, Aaron said they're "still in the process of working on what is next" regarding the partnership.

But the Shark Tank appearance delivered immediate impact. Customer traffic surged at their Williamsburg Brooklyn restaurant, which opened in 2013 and has been featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, New York Magazine, CNN, CBS, and earned a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand recognition.

The matzoh ball ramen kits remain available nationwide through Goldbelly with three options: Classic Kit for 2 ($79.95), Spicy Kit for 2 ($84.95), and a Classic + Spicy Combo Kit for 4 ($129.95), all with free shipping. Customer reviews on Goldbelly are overwhelmingly positive, with buyers praising the rich broth, the matzoh balls stored in broth for added flavor, and clear preparation instructions.

The restaurant continues operating in Brooklyn, where the signature dish remains a top seller. Whether the food truck partnership materializes or not, Sawako and Aaron now have nationwide brand recognition and proven product-market fit through Goldbelly sales.