ICHIRAN Shinjuku Kabukicho — Restaurant in Tokyo

Broth: 9/10 Noodles: 10/10 Toppings: 10/10

What I love about chain restaurants is that they're consistent. Say what you will, I know there are mom and pop shops out there that specializes in ramen, but if you just need a good bowl, Ichiran doesn't disappoint. I also like the ease of ordering more food if you just need that extra bit of noodles or toppings.

This Shinjuku branch at the time had some construction going on, but it was easy enough to find the basement. Walked down and there was a slight line around 8:30pm during the second week of January.

I will also say that this was my first dinner ever in Japan, so it was easy enough for a noob like me to figure out. Having cash in hand, I just ordered the special. To get your ticket, you go to the vending machine, insert the amount of money (over or exact) and then click on the things you want. If there is something left over, make sure you press down the return change button and grab your ticket.

At this branch, the host also came over with a preference menu which you filled out. They have recommended suggestions, but you of course can go wild with how you want your ramen made.

Sat down and placed the ticket and preference under the curtain. Someone came up and said a few things and took my ticket and closed the window. Quickly after, they brought the egg which you crack open yourself and soon after that, you'll get your ramen with most toppings on the side.

The broth was so creamy and delicious. Next time, I would definitely order more spicy. The chashu was perfect balance between meaty and fatty and the egg was the perfect 6 minutes. The other toppings were good, but not as memorable. Still part of the experience.

Don't drink all your broth too quickly, especially if you're still hungry. They have an additional menu which you can fill out for additional noodles and toppings. You fill it out, place the money next to it and press the small square button. Someone will be by to repeat the process.

Overall, a great first experience in Japan and would definitely come back again if I just need a...

Ichiran is one of the most well known ramen chains in Japan. You've probably seen pictures of this place on social media mainly because of the novelty of the private cubicle seating format that this place offers.

Ordering; they have the typical ramen ticket vending machine but the unique thing about this place is that you will be able to choose the richness, dashi level and amount of garlic used in the Tonkotsu broth. You can also choose to include green onions, chashu and chilli sauce for the toppings. And finally you can choose amongst 5 levels of noodle texture from extra soft to extra firm.

Seating; once you placed your order at the ticket vending machine and selected you preferences, you'll stand in line watching a notification board showing the availability of the 25 cubicles. Once the LED turns green indicating a cubicle as become vacant. Proceed to that cubicle and someone from behind the counter will open the bamboo blinds to take your order tickets. While waiting you can help yourself with the cold water dispenser available at every cubicle. If you come with a friend you can fold-in the privacy divider between yourselves.

Food; I must say that knowing that Ichiran is a very commercial and tourist type chain, my expectations were rather low and was merely there for the novelty of the seating experience. Having said that the ramen turned out to be pretty good. The Tonkotsu broth felt it was customized to my preferences I had indicated earlier ( which you think should go without saying but many places dont really achieve this). The noodles were also firm to my preference while I would gripe that the portion was fairly small. You do have an option to order extra portions of noodles...

As a renowned ramen chain, Ichiran has established its presence not only in Shinjuku but all over the world. I believe that wherever you taste it, the flavor remains consistent. My experience at the Ichiran in Hong Kong, for instance, felt identical right down to the store layout, mirroring its authentic Japanese origin.

However, I’d especially recommend the branch in Shinjuku for two primary reasons:

Firstly, Shinjuku stands as the epicenter of Tokyo’s nightlife. No matter why you find yourself wandering its streets, even at 2 a.m., Ichiran remains bustling with activity. It’s often said that a Japanese Izakaya (pub) journey is best concluded with a bowl of ramen. Given that most eateries shut down after 10 p.m., this Ichiran branch unquestionably becomes the savior for late-night cravings.

Secondly, it’s located in Kabukicho, an area brimming with shopping malls, hotels, and bars, making it an absolute must-visit during your Shinjuku night expedition.

A bit of ordering advice: if you hail from regions known for their spicy, sour, and sweet tastes, like southern China, Vietnam, or Thailand, I’d recommend opting for a milder broth and noodle flavor. And don’t forget to ask for their renowned chili powder.

All in all, as a chain brand, Ichiran might not blow you away with surprises, but it’s undeniably a top pick for your nocturnal adventures in Shinjuku. A friendly reminder: though Ichiran offers individual dining booths, the experience is far richer when shared with friends. After all, the allure of a late-night diner is the...