Hyperlocal Tokyo

This local Chinese restaurant, where the owner apologizes to regulars every time the price changes, left a lasting impression. They apparently raised prices in October, but it's still affordable. I'm a first-timer, so I don't know the previous prices. It's a charming little place. Even though it was around 5 PM, it was bustling with customers, and the clientele was diverse. There were mothers with children, foreign couples, colleagues in workwear, local grandmothers, and even solo women who looked like they were career-driven. I ordered the half-sized Chinese-style rice bowl and ramen set for 950 yen. It seems you can order the set at any time of day. The ramen noodles were soft, and the Chinese rice bowl sauce was thick. The food and the atmosphere were both comforting. It's not cramped, so it's relaxing. The older female staff member was very attentive and natural, which made me feel like she had years of experience. They also have a lot of dishes that would be good for drinking at night. This is definitely a place loved by the locals.

Even if you go during lunchtime early or late, it seems you'll have to wait in line due to its popularity. I arrived just before 1 p.m. and there were already a few people waiting. However, the turnover rate seemed good, and I was able to get in within 10 minutes. The generous portions are amazing for the price. The simple shoyu ramen with its flavorful broth comes with a variety of side dishes to choose from. This time, I went with the mapo tofu set. It wasn't a punchy flavor, but rather a nostalgic taste reminiscent of home cooking. The restaurant was filled with a warm, lively atmosphere and bustling with people. It seems they've been featured on TV, and there were even fans of the idols who appeared on the show. This Chinese restaurant is deeply rooted in the local community. I hope it continues to thrive for many years to come. Thank you for the delicious meal! ♡

This local Chinese restaurant has been on my list for a while, but it's become quite popular after being featured on TV shows like 'Machi Chuka de Nomou Ze' and 'Sekkatsu Gurume.' I thought I might be able to get a table after 2 pm, and I was right. It was full, but mostly with solo diners (including me!), so I didn't have to wait long. I ordered the half-portion set. The ramen had a Japanese-style broth and thin noodles. It was simple in appearance but surprisingly stylish (sorry, I know that sounds weird!). The fried rice was a bit on the wetter side, with egg, meat, and scallions. It was easy to eat, even for a woman. The lady running the floor was very kind, and I ended up chatting with her at the register. I hope I didn't bother her too much, as she was busy. I'll definitely be back.

Information as of October 2024: Closed on Wednesdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Cash only. Open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. *Closed when the day's preparation runs out. I went on a Saturday when it was raining, as there are always lines on Saturday lunchtimes. I arrived around 11:45 AM and there were 3 groups ahead of me. I was able to enter after about 15 minutes. I ordered: - Fried rice (¥750) - Gyoza (¥450) - Pork belly rice bowl set (¥950) The fried rice was not fluffy but rather moist, which I liked. I definitely want to try it again. The gyoza were also delicious, with a generous filling. The female staff member on the floor was very kind and made a good impression. The food was delicious and the service was great, so I think I'll go back soon.

This is a Japanese-style Chinese restaurant near Kiyosumi Garden. They are open all day, so I went there before 4:00 PM on August 6th and had the half-and-half set for ¥850. It comes with ramen, half a fried rice, and pickles. The ramen has a light broth with thin, slightly under-hydrated, curly noodles. It features a large piece of roast pork, sweet bamboo shoots, seaweed, and scallions, making it a typical Tokyo ramen. However, at the bottom of the broth, there are finely chopped scallions, minced scallions, and a few pieces of pickled ginger. The half-fried rice is moist and has eggs, a piece of char siu, and scallions, also a classic Chinese-style fried rice. The pickles are commercially available pickled radish and Japanese cucumber, and a homemade salt-rubbed cabbage. I enjoyed everything. The restaurant is a typical Chinese-style restaurant with a residence attached. It's very popular, with a line during lunchtime. Even around 4:00 PM when I went, there were quite a few customers.