Hayashimaru

This shrine to wontonmen is located just a few steps into one of the alleyways off Koenji’s main shopping street on the north side of the station. We have to recommend the tsukemen (¥800), served with homemade wheat noodles, and the wontonmen (¥900), made with an excellent homemade broth. The prawn wonton is also a nice choice, with its wonderfully soft and chewy texture. The soup here is made with soy sauce, salt, slowly cooked meat like chicken and pork, and vegetables, after which it’s combined with seafood ingredients including kelp, dried sardines and dried bonito to provide wholesome, well-balanced flavours. The medium-thick noodles have just the right texture and consistency. For a ‘best of both worlds’ option, go for the mixed wontonmen (¥980), which allows you taste both the meat and the prawn versions in one bowl. The restaurant also offers a full range of limited-time specials and side dishes.