Tamagatta Yokohama Nishiguchi

Tamagatta, a Tonkotsu ramen shop originating from Kyushu, Oita, opened its branch in December 1999 in Kanagawa Shinmachi, and then in January 2007, it opened in the Minamisai area of Yokohama Station West Exit. Located a 5-minute walk from Yokohama Station West Exit, near Don Quijote Yokohama Nishiguchi store, it has been supported for nearly 20 years as a valuable establishment where one can savor authentic Kyushu Tonkotsu ramen with extra-fine straight noodles, in an area where Iekei ramen is prevalent around Yokohama Station. Among its sister shops including Kanagawa Shinmachi Main Store and Hinodecho Store, this station-front location caters to late-night demand, attracting its own unique customer base. The signature "Ramen" (940 yen) features a rich, cloudy, brownish-white soup made by thoroughly simmering pork bones. Unlike the lighter Hakata-style Tonkotsu, its "simmered" consistency with marrow extraction and fine bubbles on the surface are characteristic of Oita Tonkotsu. The richness is deep, but its creaminess softens the heaviness, creating a high level of harmony with the extra-fine, low-hydration straight noodles. With a relatively mild saltiness that allows for the sweetness of pork to be felt, it's customary to enjoy it to the end by repeatedly changing the flavor direction with grated garlic, red ginger, white sesame seeds, bonito flakes, umakara miso (spicy miso), and vinegar available at the table. Noodle firmness can be specified in stages: "kona-otoshi (flash-cooked)", "harigane (ultra firm)", "barikata (very firm)", "futsu (regular)", and "yawa (soft)". This free customization, where customers verbally call out their preference when handing the meal ticket to the staff, has become part of the shop's culture. For men, the volume is designed with an extra noodle serving (kaedama) in mind, which is reasonably priced at 120 yen. The chashu topping consists of several thin slices stacked, offering a tender finish with a good balance of fat and lean meat. The "Mentaigohan" (seasoned cod roe rice) side dish (small 270 yen / regular 390 yen) is a popular item with plenty of mentaiko on rice, often enjoyed by pouring soup over it in the latter half of the meal. Furthermore, a small bowl of rice is offered free of charge from opening until 4 PM on weekdays, allowing for a satisfying meal set of ramen + small rice + kaedama. With long operating hours until 1 AM, it also meets the demand for a late-night ramen fix after drinking around Yokohama Station or before the last train.