01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
A broth simmering dried sardine (niboshi) and dried mackerel flakes alongside pork and chicken bones forms the base at Kikuchan in Tokyo's Itabashi Ward. Glossy, springy thick noodles are crafted to catch that deeply aromatic, sharply defined dipping soup. The signature tsukemen offers an unadorned look into the depth of the stock, served in standard portions with the option to upsize to medium or large.
Expanding the Bowl with Spicy Miso and Hearty Toppings
Beyond the staple tsukemen, the shop diversifies its dipping broths with options like spicy tsukemen, spicy miso tsukemen, and a round, mellow miso tsukemen. Diners looking for a substantial bowl often go for the seasoned egg and chashu tsukemen. Ramen is also on offer; while thin noodles are the default for preparations like the salt ramen and miso ramen, guests can swap them for thick noodles depending on their mood.
An Easy Solo Stop at the Counter
With an interior arranged primarily around counter seating, the shop lends itself naturally to dropping in alone to focus on a hot bowl of noodles. The side menu includes pan-fried gyoza, steamed rice, and spicy leek with chashu pork, which pair easily with a bottled beer or highball. Cash is the only accepted payment method, making this a reliable neighborhood spot for enjoying broth-forward noodles at your own pace for lunch or dinner.
