“Ramen is life!” a cheerful customer exclaims. Today we’re standing outside Ramen Zundou-ya Shinsaibashi in Osaka. This isn’t just any ramen joint. It’s a place where tonkotsu dreams come true.
Ramen Zundou-ya opened its doors on April 8 2011. Since then, it has been serving bowls of happiness. It is located near Shinsaibashi’s main walkway. Look for the gigantic paper lantern. That is how you’ll spot Ramen Zundou-ya Shinsaibashi.
The specialty here is tonkotsu ramen. This ramen features a rich pork bone broth. Be aware of this if you don’t eat pork. The simplicity of the dish is what makes it amazing.
Once inside, you’ll find a counter with 11 seats. The restaurant uses a vending machine for ordering. The Japanese menu offers more choices than the English one. It even gives you two noodle options.
Locals know the drill. If there’s a wait, write your name on the list by the door. Relax with some hot tea while you wait. Menus are available in Korean, Chinese, English and Japanese.
Once seated at Ramen Zundou-ya, the real fun begins. First, choose your ramen. The “motoaji hot ramen” is a popular pick. Next, customize it. How rich do you want your broth? Regular is a safe bet. Rich can be very filling because Japanese ramen bowls are large. Pick your noodle type. Thin or curly. You can always order more noodles later.
Don’t be shy. Slurp your noodles. It’s considered proper ramen-eating manners here in Osaka. Seasonings and toppings galore await you. Chili oil, ginger, soy sauce. Don’t miss the takana. These pickled leaves, seaweed and herbs are special. You can even buy them as a souvenir.
One satisfied customer raved about the thin noodles. He also complimented the springy texture. The char siew was tender with fats that melted in his mouth. The soup was flavourful. The spicy oil balanced the saltiness.
So come on in. Experience the tonkotsu magic at Ramen Zundou-ya Shinsaibashi. It’s a quick, delicious, and authentic taste of Osaka.