Ryoma

Just past the bustling drinking alleys of Kita-Senju, Ryoma presents the storefront of a ramen joint while functioning very much like an izakaya, where you can unwind over drinks and simple small plates. Paper strips lining the wall display an affordable spread of appetizers, from boiled gyoza and miso-cured tofu to garlic chives marinated in soy sauce. Along with bottled beer and chuhai, the drink lineup features coffee shochu—which can be ordered with milk—as well as Hoppy and Baisu sets, making it easy to start with whatever suits your mood.

After drinks, the straightforward shoyu ramen makes a natural closing dish. Wavy noodles sit in a clear, amber chicken-bone and soy broth, accompanied by classic toppings such as chashu pork, nori, and seasoned bamboo shoots. Depending on your appetite, there are also lighter salt-broth ramen, chilled noodles with savory meat miso, and wonton toppings to consider.

Seating is centered around a counter wrapping the open kitchen, offering a comfortable setting even for solo diners. The shop operates from 16:00 in the evening until 23:00 at night, and payment is cash only.