This place is really great. First of all the food. This was for sure the best ramen that I had while in Japan. I went there twice during my time in Tokyo and both of the ramen were delicious. Hands down the most flavourful and tasty vegan broth, I’ve tried. The noodles he uses were really to my taste. A bit thicker and when served they’re nice and chewy (in the best way haha). If you’re a vegetarian there’s the option of adding an egg on top of the ramen. There’s also a really good rice bowl with soy meat and egg on the menu and I would recommend trying that one as well. The price is extremely good and considering what you get, I would almost call it a steal.
Now to the service. The place is run by only one guy, who seems really passionate about his job and I can appreciate that (also speaks perfect English). There are only 7 seats at the counter so be careful as this might not be your go-to spot if you’re in a bigger group. I’ve read some reviews here and few people mention the guys attitude. I honestly didn’t have any problem with that. If you communicate with him, you will find out that he’s a really nice person. If anything, I think that he’s only very strict on himself in terms of service. And if you take into consideration that he’s there 6 days a week, cooking by himself, you gotta give him props for that. The second time I went there, a group of three other foreigners came, didn’t even close the door behind themselves and immediately demanded adjustments to their food. So maybe a good recommendation is: don’t be an idiot. Working in gastro can be quite a nightmare and he’s doing it by himself.
So yeah, I really...
Read moreForget everything you thought you knew about vegan ramen. Forget watery broths and sad, lonely noodles. Because Tsukemen Zuppa, nestled in the vibrant heart of Shibuya, isn't just good vegan ramen – it's an absolute triumph, a culinary experience so profound it deserves a standing ovation (and maybe a second bowl). From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere hums with a quiet confidence. The minimalist yet warm décor, with its subtle nods to traditional Japanese aesthetics, creates a sanctuary amidst the city's electric energy. You're not just entering a restaurant; you're entering a space crafted with intention and care. But let's talk about the star of the show: their signature Soy Milk Ramen. Oh. My. Goodness. From the first fragrant steam that kissed my face, I knew I was in for something special. The soy milk broth – the very soul of this ramen – was a revelation. Creamy, rich, and surprisingly light, it possessed a subtle sweetness and a deep umami that was both comforting and utterly addictive. Hints of [mention specific flavors you might imagine complementing soy milk, e.g., sesame, white miso, a touch of ginger] danced on my palate, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying experience. This wasn't just soy milk; it was transformed into liquid gold. And the noodles! Perfectly cooked with just the right amount of chewiness (the coveted "koshi"), they embraced the luscious soy milk broth like they were meant to be together. Each strand was a testament to the chef's dedication to texture and quality, soaking up the flavorful broth with...
Read moreThis meal was a testament to the magic of plant-based cooking done with heart. Everything on the menu was vegetarian, and the chef, a passionate vegan himself, asked us if we wanted the dishes fully vegetarian or vegan. His dedication to his craft was awe-inspiring—watching him dance gracefully in the kitchen, handling orders inside and chatting with folks waiting outside, was a true work of art.
Ordering is through a vending machine, and I’ll admit, if you’re not used to the Japanese system, it can be a bit confusing since the options are entirely in Japanese. I’d recommend asking a friendly passerby or using a translation app. If you’re hoping to try the two limited specials—Tomato & Basil Mazesoba or Curry Taco Mazesoba—press the same button, and the chef will personally ask which one you’d prefer. (I think…)
The Tomato & Basil Mazesoba was a dry stir-fry ramen packed with mushrooms, a deep, rich tomato sauce, and layers of flavor that linger in the best way.
The Curry Taco Mazesoba was absolutely delicious—creamy, comforting, and full of bold curry flavors. It’s topped with corn chips (think Doritos) for an added crunch, which brought a fun, unexpected texture to the dish.
I would go back in a heartbeat. This spot is a must-visit for anyone—especially your vegetarian and vegan friends—who appreciates food made with passion and care. The chef’s talent and heart shine in every...
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