Recommended bowl: Strictly tantanmen

Aun has long been known as a go-to spot in Tokyo for those craving tantanmen. The versions here (like most) are Chinese inspired, and made with house-made chili oil containing flavors extracted from nine different herbs and spices. Toppings include items such as spiced meat, dried shrimp, Chinese pickles and fresh mizuna. The tare sauce contains handmade and hand kneaded Haccho miso, and the Schezuan peppercorns are ground fresh. Diners can opt for versions with or without soup, as well as a choice of white or black sesame based tare sauces. Spice level of one to five is also at the discretion of the customer. Noodles are provided by Mikawaya Seimen. Aun has several branches around Tokyo. The Yushima flagship has been open since 2007.