Ramen Yu

A mound of green onions and bean sprouts carpets the bowl, barely revealing the tender chashu resting beneath. The signature soy sauce ramen at Ramen Yu, located in Hanabatakecho, Shimogyo Ward, follows a time-honored style of chuka soba long cherished across Kyoto. Straight Chinese-style noodles catch the depth of the clear dashi broth and the savory richness of the soy tare, delivering an unpretentious, deeply comforting flavor. The house-made chashu is soft enough to dissolve effortlessly on the tongue, easily tempting diners to add an extra portion of meat or pair their bowl with rice.

Just as popular is the shop's miso ramen. Here, the mellow richness of miso is brightened by a prickle of chili pepper, creating a full-bodied broth that remains easy to drink right down to the bottom of the bowl. Diners can customize their bowls with bamboo shoots, wakame seaweed, or corn, or opt for a set combined with a small bowl of rice when looking for an especially hearty meal.

Inside, counter seats and tables accommodate solo diners seeking a quick lunch as well as small groups eating together. From 5:00 in the evening, pan-fried gyoza become available to order, making an early-evening visit a great chance to linger over beer, kimchi, and a starter plate of sliced chashu. Payment is cash only, and lunch hours can get busy, so visiting with a little extra time to spare is well advised.