Yamano

At Yamano in Nerima, the pleasure of mazesoba lies in lifting thick noodles from beneath a bowlful of toppings, then mixing them thoroughly with the rich sauce waiting at the bottom. Reviewers describe the satisfying, hands-on ritual of bringing it all together. The signature mazesoba pairs chewy, thick noodles with the depth of meat miso and the savoriness of fish powder, while nira chives and garlic add their own fragrance. The flavors come together more fully with each bite.

For a more substantial bowl, Yamano’s specialty torobuta is a popular addition. Reviewers describe thick slices of pork that make an impression by nearly covering the noodles, yet are tender enough to break apart with chopsticks. Combined with noodles coated in sauce, they make for a particularly generous mouthful. Reviewers also mention complimentary rice after the noodles, a satisfying way to finish the sauce and any toppings left in the bowl.

Mazesoba is not the only noodle option: the menu also includes niboshi chuka ramen, niboshi tsukemen and spicy variations. For something on the side, there are cabbage and chashu pork, gyoza, beer and sours. Set below ground in a calm interior, Yamano offers a setting suited to a filling noodle lunch or, as reviewers describe, a drink after work followed by a final bowl.