T’s Tantan Ikebukuro — Restaurant in Tokyo

Finally could try this too, which was a pain to find until I realized one day, coming toward another exit, that it was inside the station, behind the gates, specifically next to the platforms 7 and 8 of the Yamanote Line for Ueno, and right in front of Uniqlo’s mini store.

I chose the golden sesame ramen through an electronic machine, which was mainly in Japanese but has names translated. I really wish however the ingredients were listed more clearly. I chose the three toppings and got a sweet included too, which was a nice addition. Price was also really good for the portion, 2000 yen of golden sesame ramen with special noodles (as I wanted to try those instead of the wheat ones, though it made me want the original ones). The soy meat was ok overall, and I used the rice to mix with the rest of the ramen broth to make a risotto-like texture.

You get seated then get your number called, as with the Tantan in Shibuya. The things provided are a bit less than the other one, and water needs to be picked up, I guess due to the place being very small.

Overall were it not for the location and lack of proper listing of ingredients, I would recommend it to vegans and vegetarians returning from the JR lines and wishing to eat somewhere vegan.

I haven’t tried this, but you could also try to just enter with your Suica to the gate, eat, then ask the station attendant to please nullify the trip, as it’s not been made and you decided to eat in place instead (explaining the long time). In alternative try to exit from another gate or travel somewhere after eating, but this will include extra costs,...

T’s Tantan Ikebukuro is a hidden gem tucked inside the JR Ikebukuro Station — a vegan ramen spot that doesn’t feel like it’s vegan (in the best way possible). Their sesame-based broth is rich, creamy, and flavorful, with just the right amount of spice. The golden sesame tantanmen is a standout: nutty, smooth, and deeply satisfying, especially for cold or rainy Tokyo days. Even the noodles have great texture — firm, chewy, and slurp-worthy. You’d never guess there’s no meat involved, and that’s the magic of this place. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the vibe is quick but calm — perfect for travelers, solo diners, or anyone hopping trains. It’s also super clean, friendly, and welcoming to non-Japanese speakers (menu has English and photos). Ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone curious about plant-based ramen that actually delivers on flavor. If you’re around Ikebukuro, don’t skip it — your stomach...

Inside the JR station gates near Uniqlo (you can pay the fee just to enter the station if you're not taking the train). One of the few fully vegan places in the area. Has a smaller menu than the Tokyo branch but it's less crowded. Personally I find it expensive (cheapest ramen is already over 1000 yen) and not very filling, but healthy and delicious (also watch out for seasonal offers, they are usually interesting). Ordering is done via machine (which is pretty normal in Japan, this ain't supposed to be a fancy restaurant with service especially inside a station), card and QR payment available. Then your number (on the receipt ) is called. Personally I found it easy and in line with so many other ramen/soba/udon restaurants, some of the criticism seems left by tourists who probably are not familiar with how Japanese restaurants of this type work. Don't be rude and clean after yourself...