Abura soba (similar to mazesoba) is a type of brothless ramen that evolved from traditional ramen culture. It’s said to have originated in the 1950s as a staff meal at Tokyo ramen shops. Today, abura soba has grown into a popular genre with specialty shops popping up all across Japan. The distinctive feature of abura soba is its style of…
Miso ramen, which originated in Hokkaidō, is now enjoyed throughout Japan as a standard ramen type. Over time, it has evolved in various regions, and these days, it’s not uncommon to find specialty shops offering modern twists such as tsukemen (dipping noodles) and mazesoba (soupless ramen). “味噌ラーメン,” Miso Ramen 990 JPY (tax included) Located in the bustling area around one…
The Ikebukuro area, one of Tokyo’s major entertainment districts, is a fierce battleground where many ramen shops compete. Among them, “Menya Hulu-lu” has carved out a unique position and maintained top-tier popularity for over a decade. Menya Hulu-lu is located roughly a ten-minute walk from the west exit of Ikebukuro Station, one of Tokyo’s biggest transportation hubs. Removed from Ikebukuro’s…
Hokkaidō, one of Japan’s coldest regions, has long embraced hearty, warming bowls of ramen. Among its most famous ramen hubs is Asahikawa, a city known for its fierce competition in the ramen scene. One standout shop that traces its roots to Asahikawa is “Asahikawa Miso Ramen Bankara” (referred to hereafter as “Bankara”). For the purposes of this article, we will…
Shibuya, a trendy Tokyo area where food culture constantly thrives and evolves, is home to “soba MAREN Shibuyaten” (hereafter referred to as “soba MAREN”) a restaurant offering distinctive mazesoba crafted by a Japanese cuisine restaurant. Mazesoba (often referred to as “soupless ramen” outside of Japan) is a noodle dish mixed with a rich sauce or oil, instead of being served…
Ramen is always evolving. While many are familiar with the four main styles—shōyu (soy sauce), shio (salt), miso (fermented soybean paste), and tonkotsu (pork bone)—there’s a vast world beyond these classics. If you’re new to ramen, consider reading our detailed guide on classic ramen styles. In Japan, new ramen sub-genres are emerging, capturing the attention of many diners. For insights…
Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most historic districts, is not just famous for its temples and traditional streets but also for its incredible food scene. From hearty hamburger steaks and fluffy omurice to indulgent matcha sweets, this guide will introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Asakusa, blending modern flavors with timeless charm. Asakusa’s giant fluffy curry omurice: Cafe…
Tokyo is a paradise for spice lovers, offering a variety of dishes that pack a fiery punch. From rich, spicy ramen to bold and flavorful curries, the city has something to satisfy every heat-seeking palate. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the best spots to enjoy spicy food in Tokyo, guaranteed to ignite your taste buds. Take on the…
Awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for three consecutive years since 2023, just two years after opening in 2021! “Haru-chan Ramen,” a ramen shop, achieved this remarkable feat just a few years after its debut. Born in Shinbashi, Tokyo, Haruchan Ramen opened its flagship store, “Ginza Haru-chan Ramen,” in July 2024. This popular shop sees a constant stream of customers throughout…
Roppongi—Tokyo’s lively entertainment district—is not only known for its nightlife but also for its eclectic dining scene. Whether you’re seeking a hearty bowl of ramen, authentic Japanese delicacies, or a sweet treat to cap off the night, Roppongi’s late-night establishments have you covered. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat after 10:00 PM, organized by experience type for…
Tokyo is a haven for food lovers, and it’s no exception for those seeking plant-based dining options. From innovative sushi to hearty ramen and vegan izakaya experiences, this city offers a diverse range of restaurants catering to vegan tastes. Discover some of the best vegan-friendly spots in Tokyo, where creativity and flavor shine in every dish! Vegan sushi restaurant that…
Tokyo is a culinary paradise, offering something for everyone—including those seeking halal-friendly dining options. From rich, flavorful ramen to premium wagyu beef, discover some of the best halal-certified restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine with peace of mind! Spicy halal chicken and ramen: Honolu Ebisu Looking for ramen that combines spice, halal authenticity, and fried chicken? “Halal ramen…
Located in the Yushima area of Tokyo, just a short walk from Ueno Station, “Shisen Tantanmen Aun Yushima” (hereafter referred to as “Aun”) is a name known by every enthusiast of tantanmen (the Japanese version of Szechuan dandan noodles)—a legendary establishment. Today, shops specializing in dandan noodles are not uncommon. However, Aun has been serving customers since a time when…
Ramen, constantly evolving, is one of the gourmet dishes that represents modern Japanese food culture. “Ramen Nagi Shinjuku Niboshi Golden-gai Honkan” (hereafter referred to as “Ramen Nagi”) in Tokyo, has played a key role in shaping the ever-expanding world of ramen flavors. By sparking the nation-wide movement of niboshi (dried sardine) ramen, it firmly established this unique style as a…
In Shinjuku, near Shinjuku-sanchome Station, Tokyo, lies a vibrant restaurant hub. Here, you’ll find “HALAL WAGYU RAMEN SHINJUKU-TEI TOKYO SHINJUKU,” a ramen spot popular with international visitors for its premium halal wagyu beef ramen. This restaurant prides itself on using halal-certified ingredients to create a truly satisfying bowl. WAGYU SPICY RED (3-PCS BEEF TOPPING) à la carte 4,500 JPY (tax…