Hirako dried sardine ramen｜Shinbashi Matoi

I had the signature dish “Hirako niboshi soba” (Hirako dried sardine ramen) at the ramen restaurant “Shinbashi Matoi” located in the Shinbashi Station neighborhood in Minato-ku, Tokyo. This ramen restaurant serves niboshi ramen (dried sardine ramen) and is well known for its flavorful broth.

Soup with a distinctive flavor of dried sardines

First, take a sip from the soup. The flavor of niboshi (dried sardines) is strong and rich, spreading in the mouth. The broth made from niboshi (dried sardines) and kelp is mild and gentle, with a restrained saltiness. The basic flavor is light, but the presence of the niboshi (dried sardines) is felt and not at all lacking. It was so good that we wanted to drink up the soup.

Sticky texture of thin noodles and gorgeous toppings

The thin noodles of “Hirako niboshi soba” (Hirako dried sardine ramen) are characterized by their sticky texture. They are crispy and intertwine perfectly with the soup. The thin, straight noodles made by Mikawaya are slightly soft boiled and bring a delightful texture to the palate. Toppings include a large piece of chicken char siu, a semi-mature flavored egg, bamboo shoots, and nori (seaweed), each of which enhances the flavor of the soup and noodles. The chicken char siu is especially satisfying, with a robust meaty flavor.

Ramen with a high degree of perfection

“Hirako niboshi soba” (Hirako dried sardine ramen) is a dish that is as perfect as it gets. It is simple, but the flavor of niboshi (dried sardines), the thin noodles, and the gorgeous toppings are in perfect harmony. Not only the ramen, but also the supporting ingredients such as menma (seasoned bamboo shoots), boiled egg, nori (seaweed), and chicken char siu are all perfectly delicious. This is truly a bowl of ramen that will leave you feeling satisfied.

【 UMAMECCA Editor’s voice 】

“Hirako niboshi soba” (Hirako dried sardine ramen) at “Shinbashi Matoi” is a perfect combination of a soup with a pronounced flavor of dried sardines, sticky thin noodles, and gorgeous toppings. It is light but has a strong presence of niboshi (dried sardines), so you will never get tired of it until the very end. If you are looking for good ramen in Shinbashi, please visit “Shinbashi Matoi”. You will enjoy the craftsmanship and passion that goes into every bowl of ramen.