There is Ramen

A rich scent of dried sardines rises from the bowl, greeting diners before they even dip a spoon into the amber, oil-sheened chintan broth. There is Ramen in Ogikubo builds its soup to showcase the deep savory strength of niboshi stock while keeping any harsh bitterness firmly in check. The result is a clean, resonant soy sauce broth, paired with straight, thin noodles that offer a smooth slurp, a clean bite, and just enough grip to carry the steaming soup.

Many customers come specifically for the chashu-men, a striking sight where tender slices of pork blanket the compact bowl entirely. The topping layers meltingly sweet, fatty pork belly with lean cuts that let you savor the natural flavor of the meat, keeping the bowl satisfying without feeling heavy. Diners often order a bowl of rice to top with pork slices, or accent the broth with the counter's green chili miso and mustard. The menu also includes wonton-men, celebrated for the slippery glide of its delicate wrappers, as well as seasoned soft-boiled eggs to customize your bowl.

Inside, the restaurant is a compact space arranged entirely with counter seating. Guests purchase meal tickets from the machine by the entrance. Note that payment is cash-only and reservations are not accepted, making it an easy, unpretentious stop when you want to slip in on a whim and focus entirely on a hot bowl of ramen at the counter.