Beninaka

Crisped to a golden sear on the griddle, the pan-fried gyoza at Beninaka crackle gently under the chopsticks, revealing a generous, satisfying filling. While vinegar and soy sauce remain customary, the menu points diners toward the house specialty: a distinctive miso-based dipping sauce that adds punchy depth and makes a natural companion for a cold beer. Each order comes with 5 dumplings at an accessible price, making them an effortless addition to the start of any meal.

Among the noodle options, the white-miso-based miso ramen stands out. Pale in colour, the broth is creamy on the palate, carrying a mellow sweetness and rich body that sharpens nicely with a shake of ichimi chili pepper from the counter. The menu also offers classic old-fashioned soy sauce ramen, a salt-broth version packed with vegetables, and a red-miso minced meat ramen for varied preferences.

For a substantial meal, combination sets pairing stir-fried vegetables over rice or fried rice with a mini ramen are a reliable choice. The shop stays open until 1:00 late into the night, functioning equally well for a solo bowl of noodles at the counter or a leisurely evening drink at a table. Payment is in cash only, so it is wise to prepare paper currency before dropping by.