Ramen

カラシビ味噌らー麺 鬼金棒 池袋店

Tokyo’s Most Intense Miso Ramen? Try the Karashibi Heat at Kikanbo Ikebukuro

Ramen in Japan continues to evolve—but did you know there’s a genre known as karashibi or shibikara? Now a familiar term among ramen lovers, this spicy and numbing category appears to have been popularized by the trailblazer “Karashibi Miso Ramen Kikanbo.” In the restaurant’s name, the word kara comes from the Japanese word karai, meaning “spicy,” and refers to heat…

油そば

Soupless, Flavor-Packed, and Totally Addictive – Don’t Miss This New-Gen Ramen in Shibuya

Soupless ramen varieties like mazesoba (mixed noodles), abura soba (oil noodles), and kamatama soba (hot noodles with egg) are among the popular genres in Japan’s evolving ramen culture. “Shibuya Mazesoba Chops” is a specialty restaurant where you can thoroughly enjoy soupless ramen in Tokyo’s trendsetting district of Shibuya. It’s also conveniently located near Shibuya Station. There are no strict definitions…

味噌ラーメン

Must-Try Miso Ramen in Shinjuku’s Ramen Battleground

Otakibashi Street, located near Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, is one of Tokyo’s most competitive ramen districts. In this area, “Misoya Hachiroshoten” (pronounced “hachirō shōten”) stands out with its distinctly original miso ramen that boasts enduring popularity. The restaurant is operated by “Nantsuttei,” a well-known ramen chain based in Kanagawa Prefecture. This chain is said to have popularized kuro māyu (black…

萬馬軒 橙 池袋店 味噌ラーメン

Ikebukuro’s Hidden Gem for Miso Ramen: Manbaken Daidai!

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…

豆乳担々麺

Ramen Lovers, Don’t Miss This Hawaiian-Inspired Spot in Ikebukuro

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…

味噌ラーメン

Craving Ultra-Rich Miso Ramen? Hokkaido’s Asahikawa Style Awaits in Ikebukuro!

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…

まぜそば

What Sets Mazesoba Apart from Ramen? A Look at the Must-Visit Shibuya Restaurant

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 Sub-Genres in Japan: A Guide to Modern Styles Beyond the Classics

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…

Where to Eat in Asakusa: A Guide to the Best Local Restaurants and Cafes

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…

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Michelin-Recognized Ginza Haru-chan Ramen: Tokyo’s Must-Try Ramen Broth!

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…

8 Late-Night Dining Recommendations in Roppongi, Tokyo: Eating Out After 10 PM in Japan

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…

From Sushi to Ramen, Where to Find the Best Vegan Restaurants in Tokyo!

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…

The Best Halal-Friendly Tokyo Restaurants! Wagyu, Ramen, and More!

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…