麺屋我論
Menya Garon (麺屋 我論) is a distinctive ramen shop tucked deep in the alleys of Shinjuku Golden Gai, born when the ground floor of the bar 'Diner 5GALLONS' — which continues to operate on the second floor — was converted into a dedicated ramen restaurant. The original bar's jukebox still stands in the compact, counter-only interior, lending an unmistakably Golden Gai atmosphere. The broth is a clear, additive-free (mukacho) soup made by simmering whole chicken, pork, kombu, and aromatic vegetables in carbonated water — a technique inspired by the bar upstairs — resulting in a refined yet deeply flavorful bowl. In 2024, the shop was featured on the popular TV Tokyo food program 'Odekake! Ad Machi Tengoku.' The signature 'Nira-men' (garlic chive ramen), topped with a lavish mound of chives finished tableside with sizzling hot oil, has become a viral sensation. The soft-boiled egg marinated in Maker's Mark bourbon whiskey and the 'beef tendon curry rice' — a mini version of the bar's own recipe — are also fan favorites. Cash only; ordering via ticket machine.
* Bars located in the same alley row.
Shinjuku Golden Gai is Tokyo's most iconic bar district — 295+ unique bars packed into six narrow alleys in Kabukicho, Shinjuku. A 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station East Exit, next to Hanazono Shrine. Featured in the Michelin Green Guide, it has been a cultural institution since the 1950s.
Read the history of Golden Gai