Menya Mahoroba

Located a 5 to 7-minute walk from JR Kamata Station's East Exit, Menya Mahoroba is a popular ramen shop renowned for its rich niboshi (dried sardine) ramen. This establishment operates as a second brand of the popular 'Menya Nemuru' in Hongo Sanchome, Bunkyo-ku, with its signature 'Bakanibo' (extremely rich niboshi) ramen, which maximizes the umami of dried sardines. The signature Rich Niboshi with Egg, commonly known as Bakanibo, priced at 1070 yen, features an incredibly thick, cement-like soup so potent that a spoon could almost stand upright in it. Its high viscosity clearly indicates its richness; upon tasting, a dense burst of niboshi umami hits you with an impactful punch, just as expected. This dish boasts a powerful flavor profile where the subtle bitterness and strong assertiveness of niboshi blend with the richness of an animal-based broth. While carefully suppressing any harshness (egumi), it achieves a deep richness befitting the name 'Bakanibo'. The noodles, from Kanno Seimenjo, are thin, straight, low-hydration noodles (teikasuimen) known for their satisfying al dente bite, expertly carrying the rich soup to your mouth. Their compatibility with niboshi-based broths is exceptional, allowing you to savor the profound niboshi umami until the very last bite. The chashu (braised pork belly) is tender, moist, pink rare chashu, slow-cooked to perfection, offering a gentle meat flavor that spreads in your mouth and creates a good balance with the rich soup. Diced onions add a refreshing, crisp texture, providing a pleasant accent and introducing a change of flavor and freshness amidst the intense niboshi richness. A variety of condiments are available on the table, including pepper, vinegar, sansho (Japanese pepper), and "Sansho Olive Oil," with the latter being a signature item of this shop. Adding the Sansho Olive Oil introduces a refreshing sansho aroma and a slight numbing sensation, instantly tightening the flavor. This 'ajien' (flavor change) is a popular way for regulars to enjoy their meal, especially in the latter half. Also available is the Rich Ebi Nibo with Egg (1070 yen), featuring a rich niboshi broth with abundant shrimp flavor. The limited-edition Rich Oyster Niboshi Chuka Soba (20 servings daily) is a popular bowl offering a double punch of oyster umami and niboshi, lavishly topped with real oysters. For those who prefer lighter broths, Tanrei Shoyu Chuka Soba (light soy sauce ramen) and Tanrei Shio Niboshi with Egg (light salt niboshi ramen with egg) are also offered at 1070 yen, providing a broad selection of options. The Ae-dama (seasoned extra noodles) is shrimp-flavored, topped with diced onions and cubed chashu, with noodles coated in soy sauce tare and olive oil, served in an abura soba (oil noodles) style. It is delicious on its own, and for a different experience, you can eat half as is, then dip the remaining noodles into the rich leftover ramen soup like tsukemen (dipping noodles). The side dish Asari Meshi (clam rice) for 420 yen is tasty by itself, and becomes an excellent pairing when drenched with the rich ramen soup, making it a popular choice among regulars. It is a cozy establishment with 5 counter seats and 3 tables, closed on Tuesdays, and open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM on other days. In Kamata's highly competitive niboshi ramen district, it stands as a beloved option for niboshi ramen alongside the nearby 'NIBOSHI MANIA'.