Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Ramen Shops

Small Axe

Tokyo, Japan

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RAMEN SHOPS WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 100 2026
Small Axe

A Jiro-style ramen counter in a back alley near Oimachi Station, run by one owner who cooks in batches. Its non-emulsified soup carries a sharp soy sauce flavor, served over thick 250g noodles with garlic, fat and vegetable calls.

Highlights

  • Non-emulsified soy sauce soup
  • Thick, soft 250g noodles
  • Tender pork slices

Good to know

  • Weekdays only, long queues along the wall
  • Ticket machine inside, cash only
  • Seven cramped counter seats, no luggage space

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