🍜Salty and Firm, Just How I Like It! at Kuwa-bara (しおそばせんもんてん くわばら)
Yesterday, I wrote about the shio-shoga ramen shop, MANNISH. I’m a huge fan and always visit when I’m celebrating something. It’s like the big brother of ramen shops that I respect the most. I often see the owner posting business updates on Twitter like he’s sending out LINE messages, and I can’t help but chuckle when I see it on the train. The shop has a unique and striking exterior and a very active Twitter presence. But what really sets it apart is its signature style of firm noodles and a strong, salty broth. According to the 1364th customer survey, the most common feedback was that the noodles were too firm and the broth was too salty. The 1365th survey is still in progress, but maybe it’s been delayed because of COVID? (That’s probably not true.) The shop proudly displays this feedback on its bowls, as if to say, “This is who we are.” It’s a bold move that you don’t see very often. Most shops focus on emphasizing how delicious their food is, but this shop goes in the opposite direction. They also offer a wide variety of creative “裏そば” (off-menu items), but today I decided to go back to basics and order the default. The service was excellent, and the food came out surprisingly quickly, even though it wasn’t a particularly busy time. I’m sure this efficiency would be a lifesaver during peak hours. The visual appeal of the ramen is striking, with its clear broth and the炙りバラチャー (aburi bara-cha) (seared pork belly) taking center stage. As advertised, the broth has a strong salty edge. Surprisingly, it’s not made with shio-dare (a type of salty sauce) but with a blend of salts, which is then diluted with an animal-based broth. Theほたてパウダー (hotate powder) on the nori (seaweed) is best used sparingly to add a subtle flavor change. The noodles are very thin and straight, and as promised, they are cooked to a firm texture. They hold their own against the bold broth, creating a well-balanced bowl of ramen. The炙りバラチャー (aburi bara-cha) (seared pork belly) has a wonderful smoky aroma and a satisfying texture. The fat that melts into the broth adds a rich depth of flavor. Overall, it’s a dish that showcases the shop’s unique approach to ramen. Yes, the noodles are firm and the broth is salty. For some people, that might be a turn-off. But for those who appreciate it, it’s a major selling point. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Review
A Salty Surprise at Kuwa-bara
Despite its bold flavors, Kuwa-bara’s shio-style ramen hits the spot with its crispy noodles and umami-rich broth. 😋🍜
(posted by Emily)
Value-Packed Ramen with a Kick
Kuwa-bara serves up generous portions of salty and firm ramen at an affordable price. Great for a satisfying and punchy meal! 🍜💰
(posted by John)
Features
| Crispy Noodles | Thin and straight, the noodles are cooked to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite. |
| Umami-rich Broth | Made with a blend of salts and animal-based stock, the broth packs a flavorful punch that complements the noodles perfectly. |
| Tasty Roast Pork | The炙りバラチャー (roasted pork) adds a smoky aroma and juicy texture, enhancing the overall taste experience. |
| Affordable Portions | Kuwa-bara offers generous portions of ramen at reasonable prices, making it a great value for a satisfying meal. |
Store Info
Menu
| Shio Soba | JPY 700 |
| Shio Tama Soba | JPY 800 |
| Ume Shio Soba | JPY 850 |
| Shio Wonton Soba | JPY 950 |
| Shio Chashu Soba | JPY 1000 |
| Shio Tsuke Soba | JPY 800 |
| Shio Kake Soba Set | JPY 800 |
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-27-5 Higashi-ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 1F Kanaguchi Building/東京都豊島区東池袋1-27-5 関口ビル1F |
| Access | 7-minute walk from Higashi-ikebukuro Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line/東京メトロ有楽町線 ／ 東池袋駅 徒歩7分(510m) |
| Business Hours | [Everyday] 11:00～21:00 [Monday～Friday] 11:00～Last order 2 hours before closing [Saturday (Holiday)] 17:00～Last order 2 hours before closing |
| Closed On | Wednesday |
| Budget | Lunch: up to 1000 yen, Dinner: up to 1000 yen |
| Credit Card | Not available |
| Capacity | N/A |
| Private Room | Available (8 seats (with karaoke)) |
| Parking | Not available ※Please note that if you wish to change the private room reservation details, please contact us in advance to confirm the latest details. [?] Regarding private room usage, etc. |
| Smoking | No |
| Reservation Contact | 03-5952-0788 |