For tsukemen in Ginza, the only place you need to visit is Ginza Oborozuki (銀座朧月). This 7-seater hole-in-the-wall also serves top-notch ramen.
Oborozuki - Tsukemen from Heaven
Oborozuki means “hazy moon” – an apt description for the thick and murky broth. It’s pork bones, chicken feet, mackerel, bonito fish and other ingredients.
Modern fish / pork tsukemen (dipping ramen) broth is intense – a combination of sour, sweet, salty, and umami. Obrozuki’s tsukemen broth forges harmony between these 4 flavors.
The broth beautifully and constructively clings to the ultra thick noodles (choose 200 or 300 grams). Of all toppings, the smoky broiled pork chashu are most celestial. The egg though is no joke and the kaiware sprouts are a nice detail.
“Soup wari” (hot water to top off your broth) at the end is possible – simply hand your bowl over.
Ramen to Write Home About
Their “Chukasoba” (ramen) goes in a different direction. It’s a light shoyu (a shoyu from Wakayama) broth that likely utilizes a lot of veggies and has a hint of niboshi fish.
Just like with the tsukemen, you know they’re using quality pork. While not broiled, the thinner slices of seasoned pork compliment the milder broth.
Komatsuna and a sea of chopped negi (spring onions) give the broth a punch of sweetness and a crunchy texture. A quail egg hides amidst the medium-thick and wavy noodles.
Spicy Tsukemen
Their ticket machine isn't the easiest to navigate. But there are buttons on it for some other ramen options. This includes a spicy tsukemen.
It's essentially the same as the regular tsukemen...but supercharged with chili oil. This oil is visible on the surface.
While this chili oil addition isn't exactly a game changer, it is nice if you crave some heat.
Cozy Vibes, Great Tsukemen
I love entering Oborozuki. It’s like a tiny cave – with the aromas having nowhere to go but into your nose.
For tsukemen in Ginza (or even ramen), Oborozuki does everything right. They've bagged multiple awards over the years too.
