Where to eat now in...Shimokitazawa

Nagi Niboshio Ramen is a popular chain which, as the name suggests, serves piping hot ramen bowls. Their new Shimokita outpost is the size of a parking space and pulls in noodle-lovers with its no-fuss menu. Cheap and cheerful, you're welcomed with the sound of happy diners loudly slurping on thick bouncy noodles swimming in a rich, flavourful umami anchovy broth. You can select a lighter broth too, but the former is recommended by the staff (and who are we to argue with them).

Huge round slices of fatty char siu pork is the topping of choice, while other options include scallions and salted boiled eggs. Pots filled with mini anchovies are placed on the table should you wish to use them as a garnish. If you're tired of ramen or want to try something different, they also serve rice dishes. Ordering is done via an easy-to-use machine and dishes usually arrive within five minutes from the open plan kitchen. This is Shimokitazawa’s go-to place for a quick satisfying bite and also doubles as the ultimate hangover cure. What's not to love?

The sweet of tooth rejoice – there’s a place just for you, where you can ditch the preambles of starters and main courses and go straight for dessert. Located three minutes from the station is Neue, a cosy restaurant that caters for around ten people at a time. Focusing solely on sweets is a masterstroke, as every item is an indulgent treat. Our current favourites are the nutty yet smooth pistachio crème brûlée, the perfectly executed flan and an indulgent chestnut and white chocolate parfait (pictured above) big enough for two. The tipple of choice is wine by the glass and the list is a cleverly curated selection of reds and whites. Neue is perfect for a catch-up and for those who want a mini restaurant safari having had other courses elsewhere. The place is open until midnight but still retains its relaxed and charming atmosphere, at least until the sugar crash kicks in.

Winter is upon us and hot comfort food is a must which explains why Sama, which only opened in October, has already established itself as one of Shimokitazawa’s essential eateries. The menu here is simple: soup curry, and lots of it. These bowls of hearty hybrid broth are generous in portion and warm you like a culinary cuddle. There are two options: chicken – which comes with a big, tender and well-seasoned chicken leg on the bone – or seafood. The curries start from ¥1,100 and come with a garden’s worth of vegetables including broccoli, carrots and baby corn (talk about stocking up on your five-a-day). The broth is the star though: it is rich, fragrant and has a great consistency.

Equally great for a quick bite and a stretched-out lunch, Sama is the kind of charming place that makes you want to become a regular and you’ll soon find yourself crossing town if needed to do just that.