Kyoto’s Ramen Scene and the Charm of the Ichijyoji Area
Kyoto, known as the ancient capital of Japan, has nurtured a unique food culture along with its historical beauty. Ramen, in particular, stands out among Kyoto’s diverse gourmet offerings. Kyoto’s ramen scene offers a wide range of choices, from traditional flavors to innovative flavors.
The Ichijyoji area in particular, known as the “Ramen Kaido,” is a veritable mecca for ramen lovers, with its high concentration of ramen stores. Walking along this Kaido, you will find each store filled with a different aroma and atmosphere. Among them, “Menya Kyokudori” has established a special status as a ramen restaurant known for its unique chicken white soup.
In this article, we will explore the appeal of their “Menya Kyokudori” ramen. We will explore how their ramen has captured the hearts of so many people and created an enthusiastic fan base.
History and Concept of Menya Kyokudori
Menya Kyokudori opened in 2011 and was founded by owner Imae-san, a former hairdresser. Mr. Imae trained at another popular ramen restaurant in Kyoto, Tanpopo, before opening his own ramen restaurant. His passion and innovative ideas have propelled “Menya Kyokudori” to become one of the most popular restaurants in Kyoto.
The concept of this restaurant is not only to serve delicious ramen, but also to provide a special experience for customers who visit the restaurant. In particular, the chicken shiratsuyu soup, made from chicken bones and chicken meat simmered for a long time, is unparalleled in its sludge-like richness. It has established a unique position in the fierce ramen competition in the Ichijyoji area, and its unique soup leaves a strong impression on visitors.
Menu Details
The menu at Menya Kyokudori is a perfect balance of simplicity and oddities. The main dish is the “Chicken Tadashi,” which is a ramen based on a thick chicken white soup. In addition, the menu offers variations on the soup, with “Aka-tadashi” having added chili peppers, “Kuro-tadashi” using burnt garlic oil, and “Uo-tadashi” having the unique flavor of added fishmeal. All of these use the same base soup, but each offers its own unique flavor.
Unlike most ramen stores, the “Tamago Kake Gohan Set” is also popular here, and many customers love the combination with the free refill of white rice. These menu items offer new taste discoveries not only to Kyoto’s ramen lovers but also to many tourists.
The Secret of the Soup
Without a doubt, the most distinctive feature of “Menya Kyokudori” is its rich and unique soup. This soup is made from chicken bones and chicken meat that have been simmered for a long time, and its viscosity is described as “lenggae standing up. This unique texture and flavor is a characteristic not found in any other ramen restaurant.
The process of making this soup is a trade secret of the owner, Mr. Imae, and no one but him knows the details. The delicacy of the process of making this soup offers unique challenges not found in other cuisines. For example, it is important to serve the soup at the proper temperature, as it can easily cool down.
The unique texture and flavor of this soup provides an unforgettable experience once tasted and has created many devoted fans.
Atmosphere inside the restaurant
The interior of Menya Kyokudori offers a simple, relaxed atmosphere befitting its exceptional ramen. Although the restaurant is not large, it is clean and comfortable. It has a total of 13 seats, including both counter and table seating. Dining at the counter allows diners to watch the ramen being prepared up close, heightening their anticipation for the food.
Despite the popularity of the restaurant, with a long line of customers waiting in line, the staff is committed to providing prompt and courteous service. They strive to make every visit comfortable for all customers and to make the wait an enjoyable part of the experience.
Customer Testimonials
The unique soup and ramen at Menya Kyokudori has elicited diverse reactions from customers. Some reviewers have described its thick soup as “a sloppy broth like Tenkaichin,” and it has received high praise, especially from those who love the richness of chicken white soup. On the other hand, opinions can be divided, as some customers find the soup’s unique texture and flavor not to their liking.
However, the uniqueness and depth of flavor of this ramen has created a large and enthusiastic fan base, and once a customer is hooked on its charms, no other ramen will satisfy them. A visit to the restaurant is more than just a dining experience, and is especially recommended for ramen lovers.
Points to Note When Visiting
There are a few important things to note when visiting Noodle House Gokudori. First, the restaurant is open from 11:30 to 22:00, but due to its popularity, it may close when the soup runs out. Also, the restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Due to the limited number of seats in the restaurant, long lines can form, especially on weekends and holidays. It is recommended that you allow for waiting time when visiting the restaurant. It is also important to have cash ready in advance, as payment is by cash only.
With these points in mind, we hope you enjoy the unique ramen at Menya Kyokudori to the fullest.
Summary
Menya Kyokudori stands out in the Ichijyoji area of Kyoto with its unique chicken white soup and simple but deeply flavored ramen. The concept of the restaurant, the diversity of its menu, and the varied reactions of its customers make it a must-visit place for ramen lovers and tourists visiting Kyoto.
Throughout this article, we have tried to introduce its charms, but the full picture can only be grasped by experiencing it firsthand. If you are ever in Kyoto, please visit Menya Kyokudori for a unique ramen experience.
Shop Information
Address:
29-7 Ichijoji Nishitojikawaracho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto
Google Maps
Transportation:
340 meters from Ichijoji.
Operating Hours:11:30～22:00
Closed on Mondays
Website:
Tabelog Page
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