Niboshi ramen that’s good for you – once a revolutionary concept, now accepted wisdom, in large part thanks to Shimotakaido’s Himawari. After starting business a couple of days before the end of 2023, this dainty shop by the Koshu Kaido highway has attracted a fanatic following with its all-natural, 100-percent domestic ramen.
Their signature Niboshi Soba (from ¥1,100) is built on a soup combining dried fish, kombu and brand-name Satsuma Chiran chicken for a dizzying depth of additive-free flavour. Combined with house-made medium-thick noodles exhibiting the aroma and sweetness of high-grade Hokkaido wheat, it makes for an often imitated but never bested bowl. Toppings include king oyster (eringi) mushrooms and aromatic char siu cut and seared to order.
For a change of pace, visit on a Sunday for the chance to try their Niboshi Tonkotsu Soba (from ¥1,100).