Introduction: Tokyo’s Hidden Gem for Artisanal Ramen
If you’re on the hunt for authentic Japanese ramen with soul, look no further than Menya Yamato, a compact ramen house in Tokyo’s Mitakadai. Founded by Chef Akihiko Ohashi, this unassuming eatery has captured the hearts of ramen enthusiasts with its clean flavors, attention to detail, and deeply satisfying bowls of ramen.
The Story Behind Menya Yamato
Originally the chef-owner of an izakaya named Sakaba Yamato, Chef Ohashi pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic to open Menya Yamato in January 2021. The decision wasn’t just business—it was a passion project born out of a love for ramen and Japanese culinary traditions. The shop quickly gained attention for its no-shortcut approach, house-made ingredients, and dedication to seasonality.
Ramen Offerings: From Tonkotsu to Tantanmen
Signature Bowls
- Shio Ramen: A beautifully balanced sea-salt and clam-based broth that is both light and layered with umami.
- Shoyu Ramen: A traditional soy-based bowl featuring a richer, slightly more savory profile.
- Tantanmen: Their spicy sesame ramen, popular for its depth without overpowering heat.
Seasonal Specials
- Cold tomato ramen (summer)
- Yuzu-infused varieties
- Limited-edition miso bowls
What Makes Menya Yamato Special?
House-Made Noodles
Crafted in-house using a domestic wheat blend, the noodles are chewy, slightly nutty, and perfect for absorbing the broth.
Sous-Vide Chashu
Their chashu (both pork and chicken options) is cooked sous-vide, resulting in juicy slices that melt in your mouth—never dry, never falling apart.
No Additives
The broths are simmered to extract flavor naturally—no MSG, no shortcuts, just honest cooking.
Ambience and Experience
Located just a 2-minute walk from Mitakadai Station on the Keio Inokashira Line, Menya Yamato seats only 9 guests along a counter. The wooden interior feels warm, intimate, and purely focused on ramen appreciation.
Price and Value
- Price range: ¥1,000–¥1,999
- Excellent quality-to-price ratio
- Cashless payments accepted
Reviews and Recognition
- Tabelog Score: ~3.6/5 from 180+ reviews
- Reviewers highlight the unique balance in the shio broth and the craftsmanship behind each bowl.
- Featured in local ramen blogs and loved by Japanese and foreign ramen hunters alike.
Final Thoughts: Is Menya Yamato Worth the Slurp?
Absolutely. Menya Yamato isn’t just another ramen stop—it’s a celebration of Japanese culinary purity. Whether you’re a tonkotsu fan or seeking something lighter like shio, this is a place where every slurp tells a story. It’s intimate, thoughtful, and a true reflection of Japan’s evolving ramen scene.
FAQs
Q: Do they take reservations?
A: No. Walk-in only. Arrive early to avoid queues.
Q: Is there an English menu?
A: Basic English available; point-to-order is easy.
Q: Can I get vegetarian options?
A: Not currently. Most broths are meat-based.
How to Get There
Address: Near Mitakadai Station, Tokyo
Access: 2-minute walk from Keio Inokashira Line
Hours: Typically open for lunch and early dinner (check for updates locally)
