Looking to dine at Menya Inoichi on your next trip to Kyoto? I’ve got you covered!
In this article, I’ll be sharing some insightful tips so you can have a heads-up before popping into their doors.
Menya Inoichi is one of the nine Kyoto’s ramen spots recognized in Michelin’s Bib Gourmand guide. With proximity to Shijō Train Station in central Kyoto, Menya Inoichi carries the alluring scent of dashi, welcoming you inside.
To celebrate the finest dining culture of traditional Kyoto cuisine, Menya Inoichi’s ramen sits in a steaming hot bath of Rausu kombu broth with two signature flavors: a delicately seasoned white’ and a robust black. A finishing touch of freshly shaved katsuobushi intensifies the umami flavor.
Without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Read More: A Curated Kyoto Food Guide That Makes Your Taste Buds Go Crazy
At A Glance: Check-In
No reservation is accepted as Menya Inoichi works on a first-come first-serve basis. With such a huge popularity, queuing is unavoidable.
To secure a spot, plan to line up 30 to 60 minutes before the doors open, as the demand can be high.
I was there in mid-October around 5 PM only to find a lengthy queue already formed. The staff began distributing menus and taking orders before the official opening.
In the meantime, you’ll be handed a number that indicates the group of diners that you belong to. On the plate, you’ll also find a designated check-in time. While waiting for your turn, consider planning a brief visit nearby if you still have other activities to tick off the bucket list.
Upon returning, present your number plate, and the staff will guide you to your seat according to the order or have you wait near the entrance.
Note: Photography is strictly prohibited on the premises at Menya Inoichi.
Read More: What to Do in Kyoto? 10 Must-See Destinations for All Types of Travelers
What To Order At Menya Inoichi?
The menu is very well curated so you won’t have a hard time picking the right dish. Each option is written in both English and Japanese. Each diner must select a main course of ramen with the broth flavor of choice. Remember that white rice and side dishes are not counted.
In the menu below, the Ramen section proudly sits in the middle. This is where you wanna focus on.
You can either choose the Dashi Ramen with Kyoto Pork or Dashi Ramen with Grilled A4 Wagyu Beef Ramen as I did. Upgrade to an extra serving of Seasoned Half Boiled Egg at an additional cost.
Ingredient-wise, the two versions are similar. The biggest difference comes from the broth.
Menya Inoichi prides itself on a 100% seafood broth, crafted by blending various fish flakes, notably Kyoto’s finest bonito flakes from “Kyoto Katsuobushi,” extracting flavors at low temperatures.
Choose between Shiro, the White Soy Sauce, or Kuro, the Black Soy Sauce, topped with finely sliced dry bonito flakes in 0.01mm cuts. Their homemade noodles are exclusively made from two types of Hokkaido wheat and are mixed with whole-grain stone-ground flour, offering a satisfying texture to the soup.
The White Soy Sauce is not overpowered at all and that’s why it makes more sense when the green onions on top blend in and pair with the juicy, beefy Wagyu.
The flaky bonito not only delights the whole presentation with its peachy color but also tantalizes your taste buds.
Meanwhile, the Black Soy Sauce is extracted from premium fish filets, resulting in a deeper flavor, mouthfeel, and slightly salty.
Rice with Grilled Scallops and Tofu Dashi Mayo
Round out your meal with a small rice dish. The Rice with Grilled Scallops and Tofu Dashi Mayo totally nails it with a creamy, rich base and a subtle spicy kick. It’s filled with tofu, seaweed, and scallops, and drizzled with the house’s signature red spicy oil.
Can You Pay By Card At Menya Inoichi?
Card payment and wireless transactions are accepted at Menya Inoichi, unlike many other ramen spots in Japan that only take cash.
Final Words:
Menya Inoichi is definitely a highlight on your Kyoto food spots bucket list, especially if you’re a ramen enthusiast!
Indulge in their exceptional noodle and slurp on its rich, flavorful broth paired with fresh, generous toppings, and perfectly chewy noodles. While the wait time may hold you back in doubt (and that sounds even less desiring standing in the freezing cold weather).