Tokyo Ramen Street

A sudden craving for ramen? Tokyo Ramen Street is calling. This culinary haven, tucked away in Tokyo Station’s Yaesu side underground mall, isn’t just a collection of restaurants. It’s a pilgrimage for noodle enthusiasts. Tokyo Ramen Street houses eight ramen restaurants, each boasting its own specialty. Think of it as a ramen paradise, a one-stop shop for every noodle craving imaginable. Tokyo Ramen Street first opened with four restaurants in 2011. Since then, it has expanded to offer even more variety. As of January 2017, eight distinct ramen experiences await hungry travelers. Tokyo Ramen Street caters to everyone, from busy commuters grabbing a quick bite to curious travelers seeking authentic Japanese cuisine. Even the train company personnel frequent this underground noodle haven. Each restaurant at Tokyo Ramen Street operates on a ticketing system. You select your order from a central vending machine, purchase a ticket, and then hand it to the waitstaff. It’s an efficient system, perfect for the fast-paced environment. Back in 2013, a bowl of ramen here would have cost you between 850 and 1000 yen. One of the most popular spots on Tokyo Ramen Street is Rokurinsha, known for its tsukemen. Tsukemen is a unique ramen experience where the noodles and broth are served separately. You dip the noodles into the rich broth, creating a flavorful explosion with every bite. Be prepared to wait, though. Rokurinsha often has lines snaking out the door, with wait times sometimes reaching 40 to 60 minutes. Other notable restaurants include Kanisenmon Keisuke, specializing in crab ramen, and Nidaime Keisuke Ebi Soba Gaiden, which opened in 2009 and features prawn-based ramen dishes. So, the next time you find yourself in Tokyo Station, descend into the culinary wonderland that is Tokyo Ramen Street. Discover your new favorite ramen, and experience the rich tapestry of Japanese noodle culture in one convenient location.