Ramen Nemuru

The moment the bowl is placed before you, a concentrated oceanic aroma rises from the broth, immediately whetting the appetite. At Menya Nemuru (麺屋 ねむ瑠) in Hongo-sanchome, the primary draw is the signature Rich Squid and Niboshi Chuka Soba. Layering the deep savor of squid liver with the robust umami of dried sardines (niboshi), the soup has a velvety body reminiscent of potage yet goes down smoothly without harsh bitterness. It pairs with straight, low-hydration thin noodles that deliver a firm, crisp snap while naturally drawing up the soup. Tender slices of chashu pork and a scattering of finely chopped raw onion bring a fresh accent that balances the rich dashi right down to the last bite.

Two-stage dining with seasoned extra noodles and arare rice

The meal at Nemuru unfolds further even after the first bowl is finished. The shop's popular "ready-to-eat extra noodles" arrive seasoned with sauce and oil in the aedama style, designed to be tasted first on their own like abura soba to appreciate the texture of the noodles themselves. Adding a drop of the countertop sansho pepper oil transforms the aroma, and dipping the noodles into the remaining squid-niboshi soup offers a second wave of enjoyment akin to tsukemen. To savor every remaining drop of broth, pouring the soup over arare rice—rice topped with crisp roasted rice puffs—or plain white rice provides an indulgent, ochazuke-like finish.

Clear shellfish broth and an approachable counter setting

Alongside its punchy dried sardine options, the kitchen prepares a refined Tanrei Chuka Soba centered on a clean dashi of red chicken and hamaguri clams, available in either salt (shio) or soy sauce (shoyu). Bowls can be customized with extra toppings, such as the deluxe multi-topping option, soft-boiled seasoned egg, or additional clams. The quiet dining space is centered on counter seats that welcome solo guests, and the continuous hours from 11:00 to 23:00 make it a reliable stop for an off-peak lunch or a late evening bowl. The ticket vending machine accepts cash only, and reservations are not taken, leaving you free to walk up and step inside whenever the mood strikes.