The restaurant's most celebrated and best-selling ramen. The broth is incredibly rich and velvety, made from a potent blend of toasted golden sesame seeds and peanuts, seasoned with a complex chili oil. It is topped with savory soy-based 'minced meat,' fresh baby bok choy, and thin, straight wheat noodles. It is a brilliant example of how plant-based cooking can achieve the same depth of flavor as traditional ramen. Reviewers consistently praise its creamy texture and perfect spice balance.
Tips from diners
Add the 'Gyoza' as a side—they are remarkably juicy for being completely meat-free. The Golden Sesame has a subtle nutty sweetness that balances the chili heat perfectly.
A favorite for those wanting a more robust and less sweet flavor profile. The broth is deep purple-black, offering an intense, nutty aroma and a slightly bitter, savory depth from the heavily toasted black sesame seeds. It features the same high-quality soy crumbles and fresh greens as the original. Reviewers highlight the complexity of the broth as being superior to standard versions.
Tips from diners
This is the 'earthier' choice. It has a more pronounced savory punch than the Golden Sesame. Make sure to stir the broth thoroughly before eating to mix all the toasted sesame paste from the bottom.
A textbook execution of the classic gyoza but entirely plant-based. The wrappers are thin and fried until golden and shatteringly crisp on one side, while the filling remains moist and juicy. They are seasoned with ginger, garlic, and scallions, offering a flavor profile that is remarkably close to traditional pork gyoza. Reviewers mention they are the perfect accompaniment to the rich tantanmen.
A favorite for regulars during the lunch rush. This version is the mildest and creamiest of the three sesame broths, emphasizing the subtle sweetness of white sesame and the silky texture of high-quality soy milk. It's a favorite for those looking for a comforting, less spicy meal. Reviewers highlight its clean finish and lack of any 'heavy' feeling after eating.
T's TanTan is a pioneer of plant-based dining in Japan, originally opening inside the ticket gates of Tokyo Station to serve busy commuters. It has since become a global pilgrimage site for vegans and vegetarians. The restaurant specializes in 'TanTanmen'—a Japanese take on spicy Szechuan noodles—using a unique blend of sesame, nuts, and soy milk to create a rich, creamy broth that rivals any meat-based version.
The restaurant is located INSIDE the ticket gates of JR Tokyo Station, on the Keiyo Street passage. You must have a valid train ticket or a platform ticket (¥150) to access it. It's a bit of a maze, so follow the signs for the Keiyo Line.
It's a small shop and incredibly popular with travelers. Arrive for an early lunch at 11 AM or a late dinner at 8:30 PM to walking right into a table. The line moves fast, but expect to wait 20-30 minutes during peak hours.
They have a great selection of instant ramen cups and pre-packaged treats to take home. The instant version of the Golden Sesame is surprisingly high-quality and makes for a perfect gift.
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