Characterized by its spicy and numbing flavors from chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, tantanmen noodles are so popular in Japan that there are restaurants specializing in them. Although it originated from Chinese dan dan noodles, it followed its own path in Japan.
“Souryutougyokudo Roppongi” is a popular restaurant in the lively Roppongi district of Tokyo, offering a variety of tantanmen noodles with their unique twist. Even Keanu Reeves has dined here in the past.
“黒胡麻担担麺,” Black Sesame Tantanmen 1,078 JPY (tax included)
The “Black Sesame Tantanmen” that Keanu Reeves enjoyed
One of the signature and most popular dishes at Souryutougyokudo Roppongi is their “Black Sesame Tantanmen.”
As the name suggests, the key to its deliciousness is the sesame. The soup is generously sprinkled with black sesame seeds, creating a rich aroma that envelops the dish.
More impressive than the spiciness of the soup is the deep, sweet flavor that tantalizes your tastebuds. The depth of flavor comes not only from the sesame but also from the rich chicken paitan broth. Additionally, the homemade chili oil adds a hint of spiciness to the underlying sweetness.
The noodles, developed after much trial and error, are custom-made and medium-thick. Even after sitting in the soup for a while, they retain their chewy texture, highlighting Souryutougyokudo Roppongi’s commitment to quality.
Keanu Reeves was so taken with the Black Sesame Tantanmen that he ate it two days in a row during his visit to Japan.
Why not come and experience this captivating dish for yourself?
Keanu Reeves’ autograph at Souryutougyokudo Roppongi
Hearty and filling soupless tantanmen
The “Soupless Tantanmen with Hearty Meat Topping” is, as the name suggests, a tantanmen without soup, loaded with abundant toppings.
“肉ぶっかけ汁なし担担麺,” Soupless Tantanmen with Hearty Meat Topping 1,188 JPY (tax included)
The toppings include pork and onions, seasoned with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. By sautéing and simmering, the flavors thoroughly permeate the ingredients.
The sauce, perfectly paired with the toppings, has a tangy and rich flavor. Adding vinegar from the table to taste is also recommended.
To truly enjoy the Soupless Tantanmen with Hearty Meat Topping, it’s crucial to mix it well from the bottom of the bowl. The sweet and spicy toppings, rich sauce, and noodles come together for the best flavor!
A lineup of must-try gyoza dumplings at Souryutougyokudo Roppongi
While Souryutougyokudo Roppongi specializes in tantanmen, their gyōza dumplings are also highly recommended. They always offer eight varieties of gyoza, with the specialty being the “Large Gyoza Dumplings.”
“ぷっくり大餃子（３個）,” Large Gyoza Dumplings (3 Pieces) 528 JPY (tax included)
The meat filling, with a high vegetable ratio, is juicy yet not too fatty.
As a unique feature of these dumplings, the vegetables are chopped to different sizes depending on the ingredient. Moreover, cabbage and garlic chives are coarsely chopped to provide a crunchy texture.
For dipping, be sure to use the homemade chili oil available on the table. Enhanced with Sichuan peppercorns, it is notable for its fragrance. Adding plenty of this oil to soy sauce and vinegar gives an extra punch to the flavor!
Just as the Large Gyoza Dumplings are popular among customers, so are the “Addicting Gyoza Dumplings.” They can be prepared in three ways: fried, boiled, or steamed.
“やみつき餃子（６個）,” Addicting Gyoza Dumplings (6 Pieces) 495 JPY (tax included)
Fried gyoza have a crispy skin texture, while steamed gyoza let you fully appreciate the flavor of the meat filling.
The boiled gyoza, chosen for this article, have a subtle garlic aroma that adds an accent, making them a classic taste that everyone will love. Because they’re simple and classic, you can also customize them with the table condiments.
Souryutougyokudo Roppongi recommends eating them with just vinegar. This makes for a refreshing taste that you can appreciate endlessly!
There are also unique, creative gyoza varieties. The “Chili Mayo Fried Dumplings,” featuring a sauce made from mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, are perfect with drinks. The balance of the mayonnaise’s tartness and the chili sauce’s sweetness fills your mouth with a delicious flavor.
“揚チリマヨ餃子,” Chili Mayo Fried Dumplings 660 JPY (tax included)
Souryutougyokudo Roppongi also offers gyoza with cilantro, and gyoza served with green onions and ponzu sauce for a refreshing flavor. You’ll surely find a gyoza variety that suits your taste!
A must-visit spot when enjoying Roppongi’s nightlife
Roppongi is one of the go-to areas for experiencing Japan’s nightlife.
Reflecting the lively nature of Roppongi, Souryutougyokudo Roppongi is open until 4:00 AM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Interior of Souryutougyokudo Roppongi
The interior of the restaurant features both counter seats and table seating, accommodating solo diners and large groups.
You can enjoy a meal, have a drink if you’re not ready to call it a night, or both. Its versatility is one of its charms.
Information
| Store name | 蒼龍唐玉堂 六本木 Souryutougyokudo Roppongi |
|---|---|
| Address | Yonekyu Building 1F, 7-17-16 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
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| Access |
Roppongi Station 1-minute walk from Roppongi Station Exit 2
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| Phone number | 03-3470-0451 |
| Reservations | Not accepted |
| Payment |
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| Hours | Sun-Wed. 11:30-22:30 （last order） Thur-Sat. 11:30-4:00 AM（last order 3:30 AM） |
| Closed | No fixed holidays Unscheduled holidays |
| Seating | 35 seats 11 counter seats, 24 table seats |
| Smoking | All seats are non-smoking |
| Official website | https://kiwa-group.co.jp/souryu_roppongi/ |
| Other information |
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※Menu contents, prices, store information, etc. are current as of May 2024.
