Rakkan Nishi-Azabu (楽観 西麻布)

Rakkan Tokyo Ramen

🍜 Hidden-gem ramen spot in Roppongi, serving highly refined, top-quality Japanese ramen.

🍜 Taste Type
Shoyu (Soy sauce)
Shio (salt) with White Soy Sauce

🍥 Ramen Style
Classic Ramen with Soup

🧾 Menu
There’s a ticket machine on the right side of the entrance stairs.
Buy your ticket there and English menu button is available.

🗺️ Google Map

📍 Location: Rakkan Nishi-Azabu


🚶 How to get here on Google Map


🏙️ Nearby Stations & Popular Sightseeing Spots

💳 Payment Methods
Cashless payment is available (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners, PayPay, etc)

Opening Hours
11:00 AM -16:00 PM (Mon-Sat, Holiday)
18:00 PM – 04:00 AM (Mon-Sat, Holiday)
11:00 AM – 19:00 PM (Sun)

🍜 Ramen Notes

Tucked away on a narrow backstreet in Roppongi, this hidden ramen shop can be easy to miss if you are not actively looking for it. The location itself feels like part of the experience. Walking through the quiet alley, you may wonder if you are heading in the right direction—but the moment you spot the entrance, a small sense of excitement kicks in. It feels like discovering a secret spot known only to locals and true ramen lovers.

Step inside and you will find a compact, counter-only space with no tables. The interior is slightly dim, calm, and minimal, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Japanese. There is a quiet sense of professionalism here—no flashy decorations, no loud music—just a focused environment dedicated to crafting high-quality ramen. It is the kind of place where you can immediately tell that the food, not the atmosphere, is meant to be the star.

Ordering is done via a ticket vending machine, which may seem intimidating at first, especially for first-time visitors. However, there is an English menu available, making the process simple and stress-free for international guests. You can take your time selecting your ramen and toppings, even if you are not familiar with the Japanese ticket system. This small detail makes the shop very foreigner-friendly, despite its hidden and local feel.

The shoyu (soy sauce) ramen is a standout and a must-try. The soup is based on a rich niboshi (dried sardine) dashi, delivering deep umami with impressive clarity. Each sip reveals layers of flavor rather than a single overpowering note. What makes this bowl especially memorable is the subtle Western influence: hints of basil and olive oil add a gentle aromatic lift, giving the ramen a slightly modern edge while still respecting traditional Japanese flavors. These elements blend surprisingly well with the chopped onions, which add both sweetness and texture.

The chashu pork deserves special attention. Cooked slowly at a low temperature and lightly seared just before serving, it arrives tender, juicy, and fragrant. The light charring enhances the aroma and adds depth without drying out the meat. The portion is generous and satisfying, making each bite feel substantial. Alongside the chashu, the toppings are carefully chosen rather than excessive—fragrant nori seaweed, finely sliced menma bamboo shoots, and a perfectly seasoned soft-boiled egg all contribute to a well-balanced bowl. Each topping has a clear role, enhancing the ramen rather than competing with it.

For those who prefer something lighter, the shio (salt) ramen is also highly recommended. This soup is made with white soy sauce and carefully selected salt, resulting in a cleaner and more delicate flavor profile compared to the shoyu. Despite its lighter taste, it still delivers depth and complexity, making it easy to finish the entire bowl without feeling heavy. It is an excellent option if you want to experience a refined, elegant side of Japanese ramen.

In an area like Roppongi, where dining options are plentiful, this hidden shop stands out as one of the ramen spots truly worth seeking out. It combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with subtle modern touches, all within a quiet, tucked-away setting that feels very Tokyo. If you are looking for a high-quality Japanese ramen experience away from the crowds—and one that is still welcoming to international visitors—this is a place you should definitely add to your list.

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