Menya Sugo Shinbashi – Rich Tsukemen Worth the Wait
- Frank
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Tokyo’s Shinbashi is overflowing with ramen shops, but Menya Sugo (麺屋 周郷) has quickly made a name for itself. This tiny five-seater specializes in tsukemen - dipping ramen - with a broth that’s as rich as it is refined. Pork, chicken, and fish all come together in a soup that’s silky and full of depth, with smoky notes from the fish rounding it out.
When I visited, it was the height of Tokyo’s August summer. The wait? About 60 minutes. The heat? Brutal. I was melting in line, but Menya Sugo’s friendly staff softened the blow. They even provide umbrellas to shield you from the sun.
As you inch closer to the door, you’ll be asked to buy a ticket from the ticket machine (with English options), and then hand it over through a small service window. The chef pops his head out like a station attendant on the Yamanote Line. A charming touch before the main event.
Noodles and Broth
The noodles here are special. Made in collaboration with Kanno Seimenjo, one of Japan’s most respected noodle makers, they use Fukuoka-grown Komugi no Shin wheat for a clean, springy bite. You can choose small, medium, or large. What you see here - 200g - is actually the medium size. It's perfect for soaking up the broth without overdoing it.
The soup is pressure-cooked with pork, chicken, and fish, layered with dried fish, shiitake, and kombu. It’s smooth like velvet on the palate, with sharp edges of umami fish that cut through the creaminess.
Toppings
For the full experience, order the Tokusei (all toppings). You’ll get three different cuts of meat:
• Roast pork chashu – tender, marinated slices.
• Grilled chicken – lightly charred for smokiness.
• Soy-marinated minced pork – punchy and savory.
Each topping brings something unique.
Friendly Service
In addition, Menya Sugo stands out because of its service. Despite long lines, staff treat every guest with warmth. The umbrellas, the friendly guidance at the ticket machine, and even the little ticket window moment all make the experience feel special.
Menya Sugo Shinbashi Tsukemen - Final Thoughts
Menya Sugo in Shimbashi is the place for tsukemen. It's also the the kind of place where one bowl erases any memory of the wait. The noodles are top-tier, the broth is comforting, and the toppings deliver variety and punch.
Furthermore, Iit’s a reminder of why Shinbashi is one of Tokyo’s most exciting ramen neighborhoods.
