Recommended bowl: Neo-Tokyo Tsukemen

This popular tsukemen specialty shop operates eight branches in Tokyo and one in Osaka, all with virtually the exact same menu and quality. The original Takadanobaba branch opened in 2002, and now branches are open every day in many central areas including Ikebukuro, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Akihabara and Akasaka. The dipping soup is made from meat, vegetables and gyokai (sea ingredients), with options for added miso and/or spice (spicy miso recommended). The medium width straight noodles are made at the company's central kitchen, and customers can choose small, medium or large size portions for the same price. Diced onions and fish powder are on the counter as free condiments.