Ramen shop “Ichiran”, open 24 hours, 365 days

Ichiran Ueno branch is conveniently located on the first floor of Atré.
A very easy and accessible location for tourists, as well as locals.

Ichiran is one of the most popular tonkotsu (pork stock) ramen shops. There is always a line to get in, even though it is open 24 hours.

Look for the red curtain at the entrance!

I saw a group of tourists from China taking pictures of the outside and inside.

I usually don’t like lining up to get in restaurants, but will happily make an exception for Ichiran

Waiting in line is bearable thanks to the vacancy situation screen

Even when you enter the restaurant, you will still have to wait in line.

The first thing is to buy a menu ticket at the vending machine.

On the wall, there is a screen that shows the vacancy situation of the seats. Wow!
This is helpful for the customers waiting in line.

While waiting, I am given a sheet I have to fill to customize my ramen.

Eating by yourself? No problem!

Finally, I am taken to the counter! Each seat by the counter is like a little compartment. The dividing boards can be removed if you are with friends.

I was surprised to find out there are as many as 37 seats in all, 27 by the counter and ten at the tables.

My customized ramen is ready!

This is it! The all-natural tonkotsu ramen!

I ordered my soup extra thick with lots of garlic.
I can tell it must be delicious just by looking at it!

First, I take a sip of the soup.
The garlic-y soup is rich but refreshing at the same time. It tastes amazing!

I had them add a lot of chopped up negi leek, too. The soup warms my body.

For the noodles, I chose the regular firmness. They turned out perfectly.
The slightly hard noodles are the best with the tonkotsu flavor!

And for toppings I ordered chashu (slices of roasted pork).
The tender and juicy meat is delicious together with the soup.

Once again, I see why Ichiran is so popular.
I think it’s great how you can customize your own ramen and eat in a private compartment without being disturbed by other customers.

writer：Yoko