Kagura-ya

Tucked away in Tokyo’s Suidobashi neighborhood, Kagura-ya stands as a delicious reminder that the ramen universe extends far beyond the pork bone broths that dominate most Western ramen shops. This unassuming spot has made chicken its star, crafting bowls that celebrate the deep, savory richness that only properly rendered schmaltz can provide.

The menu here centers on five main options, all ordered through the traditional ticket machine at the entrance. The assari toridobe offers a beautiful clear broth with a clean, salted chicken flavor, made extraordinary by the glistening pools of golden chicken fat floating on top. For those craving something more substantial, the noujuku toridoba delivers a thicker, almost gravy-like consistency that wraps around the noodles like a warm blanket.

What makes Kagura-ya particularly appealing is its accessibility. With a single dollar sign price point, this is the kind of place where you can have an exceptional meal without worrying about the bill. It’s perfect for solo diners looking for a quick, satisfying lunch or anyone wanting to explore Tokyo’s ramen scene beyond the usual suspects.

If you’re in the Suidobashi area and looking for a ramen experience that breaks from tradition in the best possible way, Kagura-ya deserves a spot on your list. The chicken-forward approach offers something genuinely different, and once you’ve tasted that rich schmaltz mingling with perfectly cooked noodles, you might find yourself converted to the way of the bird.