Shinjiko Shijimi Chukasoba Kohaku Ikebukuro

Located a 4-minute walk from JR Ikebukuro Station, on the 1st floor of APA Hotel Ikebukuro-Ekikita, this is the Ikebukuro branch of a specialized Shinjiko Shijimi Chuka Soba (freshwater clam ramen) shop. Its main branch in Zoshiki (Ota-ku, Tokyo) has been featured in the Michelin Guide Tokyo for five consecutive years. While the main branch operates on a strict reservation-only basis and is highly competitive, the Ikebukuro branch welcomes walk-ins without reservations, making it easily accessible. Their signature Shio Chuka Soba (salt-based ramen) features a clear and sharp Shijimi Dashi (freshwater clam broth) soup, made with abundant Shijimi clams from Shimane Prefecture. While clear, the broth offers a distinct umami from succinic acid and a clear, prominent Shijimi flavor. The robust chicken broth undertones contribute to a perfectly balanced soup that you'll want to finish to the last drop. The noodles are fine and straight, resembling somen (thin wheat noodles) in their slenderness, with a supple yet firm texture that perfectly complements the Shijimi soup. Opting for the 'Tokujo' (Special) version offers a luxurious topping of three types of Chashu (braised pork): hanging-roasted pork belly, roast pork, and duck. The braised pork belly Chashu is tender and moist, the duck Chashu is thick-cut and fragrant, and the roast pork boasts a sweet flavor. A soft-boiled egg, pork Wontons, Menma (marinated bamboo shoots), green onions, and red onions add delightful accents. They also offer Tsuke Soba (dipping noodles) in both salt and soy sauce flavors, pairing their crisp Shijimi Dashi soup with thick, whole wheat noodles. Monthly limited-edition ramen, such as Akadashi Chuka Soba (ramen with red miso broth) and Hotate Miso Chuka Soba (ramen with scallop miso broth), are also highly acclaimed, with creative combinations like Shijimi and oyster with Akadashi miso making appearances. For sides, the Tsurushi-yaki Bara-don (Hanging-roasted Pork Belly Bowl, 480 yen) is a popular dish featuring seared Chashu mixed with a soft-boiled egg, and their large Shumai (steamed dumplings, 500 yen) available in two varieties (pork and shrimp) are also highly rated. Directly connected to the APA Hotel and located off the main street, it offers a more relaxed dining experience compared to the Zoshiki main branch.