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Enjoy the rich umami of chicken in a salt-based soup! / Ramen MAIKAGURA (Chitose Funabashi)

In 2018, Ramen MAIKAGURA was founded in Chitose Funabashi, Setagaya Ward. The owner, Taichi Ichijo, trained for seven years at “Nakamuraya,” known as the origin of Kanagawa-style refined ramen. Since 2019, the shop has also started making its own noodles, aiming to create a harmonious balance between noodles, soup, and broth.

While the shop is highly praised for its variety of chicken paitan ramen, such as the “Shoyu Ramen” with a base of five types of soy sauce, and options like “Chicken Paitan Ramen with White Truffle Oil” and “Chicken Paitan Crema,” we would like to highlight the “Kakesoba (Salt)” here.

When thinking of salt ramen, a clear and light seafood-based soup often comes to mind. However, MAIKAGURA’s take on salt ramen stands out. The soup maintains transparency while showcasing a subtle golden hue. Known as a master of “chicken” use, this esteemed shop has earned four consecutive victories in the TRY Ramen Award’s Chicken Paitan category.

Owner Taichi Ichijo shares, “Nakamuraya, where I trained, was the first to introduce a menu featuring only noodles and soup, known as ‘Dashi Kake.’ I wanted to carry that tradition forward, which is why we made it a regular offering starting in May 2023.” Let’s taste this minimalist bowl.

Bringing a spoonful to your mouth, the rich umami of chicken and the fragrant, glossy chicken oil leave a lasting impression. Sipping directly from the bowl reveals a pleasant aroma of chicken permeating through the soup. The thick texture coexists harmoniously with its refined elegance, creating a flavor profile that feels effortlessly stylish even in its contradictions.

Since salt ramen has been elevated from a limited-time offering to a regular menu, options like the “Wagyu Cheek and Maitake Salt Ramen” (¥1460) and the “Yuzu Salt Ramen” (¥1180) showcase a special and refined menu composition. For those looking to pair directly with the salt soup, the “Kakesoba” priced under ¥300–¥400 serves as a strong and accessible choice.