Japanese ramen can be categorized into various types based on factors such as the flavor and characteristics of the soup, the region where it’s commonly eaten, and more.
One of these many ramen types is known as tanrei-kei ramen.
Tanrei-kei ramen is characterized by a refreshing aftertaste and a clear, transparent broth.
A particularly notable representative of the tanrei-kei style is a ramen shop called “Taishio-soba Touka” (hereinafter referred to as “Touka”), which operates multiple stores in Tokyo.
“特製鯛塩らぁめん,” SPECIAL Sea bream with salt-based ramen 1,280 JPY (tax included)
The soup made with just sea bream and water will stun you with its richness
When the ramen is brought to your table at Touka, the first thing that catches your eye is the artistic presentation.
Presentation is one of the points that Touka emphasizes, with the intention of evoking a sense of Japanese aesthetics resembling a traditional garden.
They pay close attention to the arrangement of each noodle, carefully placing them to make a visually appealing display.
Thin noodles are used for their excellent affinity with the soup. They’re made specially to complement Touka’s soup that’s made solely from red sea bream and water.
The soup, thought to be the essence of ramen, is made exclusively from domestically sourced sea bream and water.
This soup is the second point of emphasis at Touka. Despite being made only from those ingredients, it has a pleasantly surprising richness without an overpowering aftertaste.
The reason for being able to produce such a deep flavor with minimal ingredients can be attributed to their careful selection.
At Touka, they use only the backbone of domestically sourced sea bream for the soup.
The broth is then simmered slowly without stirring for an extended period, concentrating the pure taste of the red sea bream without any impurities.
A salt-based sauce added to the soup enhances the natural umami of the sea bream, providing a subtle salty touch.
Take a sip, and you’ll surely be amazed by the richness and aroma of the soup, which belies its simple ingredients of sea bream and water.
Pay attention to the ingredients that bring out the deliciousness of the soup
Let’s also take a closer look at the toppings, not just the soup!
At Touka, ramen toppings are carefully prepared to match the elegant flavor of the soup.
Toppings for the SPECIAL Sea bream with salt-based ramen include three slices of chāshū, seasoned egg, bamboo shoots, and green onion
One topping that deserves special attention is the exceptionally long, slender menma (bamboo shoots), almost encircling the bowl.
This bamboo shoots are made by simmering to retain a crispy texture, providing a satisfying crunch.
The thinly sliced chāshū (braised pork) has a moist texture and minimal fat, ensuring it doesn’t overshadow the refined taste of the soup.
The addition of yuzu citrus peels brings a refreshing aroma to the dish.
Any one of these toppings missing would leave Touka’s ramen incomplete.
Each topping plays a crucial role in supporting and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish!
Try out the ochazuke to really enhance the umami of the sea bream!
Touka offers a unique dish that you won’t find at other ramen shops: the “Elaborate Sesame Red Sea Bream Ochazuke.” Ochazuke is a Japanese rice soup that can be made with tea or dashi broth. At Touka, the dish is served with dashi to pour over rice.
“こだわり胡麻鯛茶漬け,” Elaborate Sesame Red Sea Bream Ochazuke 1,260 JPY (tax included)
The set includes white rice, slices of red sea bream, broth, two side dishes, and pickles.
The broth is made using the ramen soup, and red sea bream slices are included as toppings for the ochazuke, allowing you to fully appreciate the deliciousness of the fish.
First, savor the slices of red sea bream with sesame sauce over white rice. The domestically sourced fish has a firm texture, and the sesame sauce adds a fragrant touch to its savory flavor.
Afterward, arrange the remaining sea bream fillets on top of the white rice, pour in the broth, and enjoy!
It’s also recommended to sprinkle the brown rice crackers available at the table for a crispy texture, if you like.
This ochazuke was created with the idea of savoring the sea bream soup until the last drop, making it a unique menu item.
For an adult appetite, ordering this alongside a bowl of ramen provides a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
For those with smaller appetites, there is a set available for 580 JPY (tax included), which includes only white rice, red sea bream slices, and condiments.
The broth used is from the soup leftover after finishing your meal. Please note that this set is only available when ordering noodles.
The store is bustling with international visitors
The Ueno branch of Touka, which we visited for this article, is located in a popular tourist area, attracting a large number of foreign visitors.
The order machine supports not only Japanese but also English. Additionally, the presence of foreign staff ensures a warm and English-friendly environment, making it convenient for visitors in need of assistance.
Touka’s interior
With its meticulous presentation reflecting Japanese aesthetics and the delicate flavor of red sea bream, a bowl from Touka offers a unique ramen experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
Be sure to try the Elaborate Sesame Red Sea Bream Ochazuke as well and savor the distinctive flavors that the restaurant takes pride in!
Information
| Store name | 鯛塩そば 灯花 アトレ上野店 Taishio-soba Touka atre Ueno |
|---|---|
| Address | Atre Ueno 1F, 7-1-1 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
|
| Access |
Ueno Station（UEN） 1-minute walk from Ueno Station Yamashita Exit
Keisei Ueno Station 2-minute walk from Keisei Ueno Station Main Exit
|
| Phone number | 03-5826-5762 |
| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Payment |
|
| Service charge/Table charge | None |
| Hours | 10:00-25:00 （last order 24:40） |
| Closed | No holidays excluding atre Ueno holidays |
| Seating | 30 seats 12 counter seats, 18 table seats |
| Smoking | All seats are non-smoking |
| Official website | https://ramen-toka.com/ |
| Other information |
|
※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of February 2024.
