Recommended bowl: Shanghai in Tokyo

Just finding Shanghai Xiaochi is an adventure in itself. Snuggled away down a narrow alley in the backstreets of Shinjuku Kabukicho. This place has been open since 1993, nights only— until 4:30am, six days a week. Walking in here is like walking into Shanghai. The staff is all Chinese and feel more comfortable speaking Mandarin than Japanese or English. There is a full Chinese menu, including seasonal hairy crabs and exotic insects, but for ramen, the house recommended 'tomato iri ramen' does the job. The soup is a clear stock made from chickens, pig bones and pig tongues. Medium width straight noodles, tomatoes and Chinese leafy vegetable. Other bowls like Tantanmen, etc., are available too.