Marutan

The mellow taste of white sesame, the deeper flavour of black sesame, or the tang of a hot-and-sour broth: at the tantanmen specialist Marutan, you can choose to suit your mood. White Sesame Tantanmen is a good place to start. One diner described its rich broth as full of sesame flavour and gently spicy yet easy to eat, making it an appealing choice if you are mindful of heat. For a more pronounced sesame flavour, try the black sesame version. A visitor noted how well its broth clung to the medium-thick, wavy noodles, whose satisfying bite also made an impression.

Hot-and-Sour Tantanmen is for those after the richness of sesame with a tangy edge. One diner enjoyed both its acidity and its heat, making it a different choice from the white and black sesame bowls. The menu also offers extra spicy miso for those who want more heat; some diners have requested a particular level of spiciness when ordering. Start with the standard flavour, then adjust to your taste next time.

Rice or rice served for mixing into the soup can extend the meal beyond the noodles. Diners who paired rice with the rich broth have said they enjoyed it right through to the end. The limited-quantity Spicy Meat Rice is topped with mildly spicy minced meat and mayonnaise, and makes a heartier accompaniment to tantanmen.

Counter seating makes Marutan suitable for dining alone. Visitors have also mentioned the heavy metal playing in the restaurant, along with its records and band posters—personal touches that give the place its own character. Lunch is served from 11:30 to 13:30, and the restaurant is closed on Wednesdays. The lunch service is brief, so check the hours before setting out.