01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
If you come for suanla tangmian, one of the pleasures at Namakemono is being able to choose the level of heat. Alongside the classic version, the menu lists a non-spicy option, a ginger version and an extra-hot bowl, all priced at 1,050–1,100 yen. Diners who tried the classic bowl have described a pleasantly balanced sourness and heat, with a thick soup that clings well to the noodles. Some say it stays hot for a while, so it may be better enjoyed without rushing through lunch.
The ginger suanla tangmian has drawn praise for its well-judged combination of ginger heat and vinegar tang; one diner also remembered the texture of the bamboo shoots on top. Those who prefer less spice can opt for the non-spicy version, though one post-meal comment found its acidity a little pronounced. For more of a kick, there is the extra-hot bowl. One diner felt the heat build as they ate, and another found it especially good with rice.
Tantanmen and soupless tantanmen are also available, each for 900 yen, offering a different direction from suanla tangmian. A diner who tried the tantanmen noted the impression of the broth and how it coated the noodles, and ordered an extra serving of noodles as well. A noodle refill costs 150 yen and white rice 250 yen, useful options if you want to finish the soup or add a little more to your meal.
Lunch sets pair noodles with fried chicken or gyoza: white rice with 3 pieces of fried chicken, or white rice with 4 gyoza, for 400 yen each. Fried chicken is also available on its own, at 2 pieces for 300 yen. These are options for adding a side to a noodle-focused meal. One diner has also described eating lunch alone here; with lunch sets on offer, starting with the suanla tangmian could be a good way to get a feel for the menu.
In the evening, the menu extends beyond ramen to small plates and drinks. Options include grilled Unzen ham, yam cooked on a hot plate and Sichuan mapo tofu, alongside draft beer, shochu and a lemon sour for 300 yen. The menu can suit a quick noodle lunch or an evening built around a small dish and a drink.
