Rokubo Tantanmen

Roku-bo Tantanmen, a specialty Tantanmen restaurant, is conveniently located on the 1st floor of Rakuenn Town Ikebukuro, just a 3-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station East Exit and a 1-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Exit 40. Sharing the same tenant is "Mukan," a specialty oyster shio ramen shop, making this a prime location to enjoy authentic Tantanmen very close to Ikebukuro Station. The three signature Tantanmen dishes are Japanese-style Soup-less Tantanmen (with a soft-boiled egg) for 1220 yen, Chengdu-style Soup-less Tantanmen, and Tantanmen with Soup. The Japanese-style version is tailored to local tastes, characterized by a rich, savory, and spicy sauce combined with thick-medium straight noodles. The Chengdu-style is an authentic rendition, allowing you to choose with cilantro, recreating the flavors of authentic Sichuan cuisine. The soup and sauce are crafted with layers of rich sesame, fragrant chili oil, and the numbing sensation of huajiao (Sichuan pepper). You can orally specify your preferred level of spiciness (辛さ) and numbness (痺れ) from 5 stages (0-5). Level 3 is the recommended balance, while Level 5 is for those who enjoy intense spiciness. They can also accommodate Level 0 for no spiciness, catering to a wide range of preferences from those sensitive to spice to dedicated enthusiasts. Toppings include minced meat (with savory spicy sauce), bok choy, green onions, a soft-boiled egg (for Japanese-style), and cilantro (when choosing Chengdu-style). The noodles are medium-thick and straight, featuring a smooth and chewy texture due to their high water content, and they excellent absorb the chili oil sauce. A unique feature is the provision of iced oolong tea with plenty of ice instead of plain water, offering a refreshing reset for a numbed palate. Table condiments include black vinegar, chopped garlic, fermented tofu (furu), and a pink seasoning, offering great freedom to customize your flavor. A popular custom among regulars is to add a small bowl of rice to the remaining sauce after finishing the noodles.