01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Steam fragrant with dried sardines rises as noodles are dropped into boiling water with practiced rhythm at Somen. Situated in a calm pocket slightly removed from the bustle of the north exit of Kinshicho Station, the shop shifts gracefully through the hours, welcoming solo diners settling in for a focused bowl in the afternoon before easing into the evening as a relaxed spot for drinks and shared plates.
The signature bowl, Somen Ramen Shoyu, relies on a clean, restorative broth brewed from seafood and niboshi (dried sardines), brightened with the crisp crunch of diced raw onion. For those craving more chew and wheaty presence, the extra-thick flat tsukemen takes center stage, pairing springy noodles with a savory dipping soup. Those looking to indulge can opt for the deluxe house preparation, which blankets the bowl under tender shrimp wontons, chicken-and-shiitake wontons, a seasoned soft-boiled egg, and chashu pork.
The side dishes that accompany a drink or precede the noodles are crafted with equal care. Cast-iron gyoza arrive with crisp, browned bases holding in hot juices, while the chashu egg combines soft-cooked egg with sweet-savory sauce over pork slices. Lighter bites like a three-item snack platter featuring seasoned bamboo shoots and edamame round out the drinking table. These pair naturally with house pours like the zesty Somen Sour, homemade pickled ginger beer, or a jasmine highball perfumed with five-spice powder.
Counter seating on the 1st floor welcomes solo walk-ins, while table seating on the 2nd floor accommodates those settling in for a more unhurried meal. Open continuously from lunchtime through late night until 23:30, the shop also accepts various electronic money and QR-code payment services, making it a reliable fixture for everyday dining.
