Playfulness and Sincerity in Equal Measure at Jinrui Mina Menrui in Yodogawa, Osaka

The look of this ramen is quite “now,” with a simple elegance. The real key, the flavor, is more delicate than imagined. The seafood/shōyu based soup balances the umami of dashi stock and the sweetness of the soy sauce for a gentle, palate-filling flavor. The house-made, ultrathick noodles have a pleasant chewy texture, and the thick slices of char siu pork overflow with meaty goodness. The shopfront is filled with a sense of playfulness—even the eatery’s name means something like “human beings are all noodle beings”—but the ramen itself is dead on. It’s not just a show, it’s serious food.

• Address: 1-12-15 Nishi-Nakajima, Yodogawa, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture
• Official website: https://www.jinrui-minamenrui.com/

Classic Kansai Noodles: Osaka’s Venerable Legends and Hot New Offerings for Ramen Fans | Nippon.com

Osaka was once known as a “ramen desert” for its lackluster noodle offerings, but is today a thriving hotspot. From long-loved shops with the air of old street stalls to sleek, modern spots with Michelin recognition, the city is blessed with a variety of styles attracting domestic and international fans alike. A look at the history of Osaka ramen and some “must eat” bowls.

https://www.nippon.com/en/japan-topics/c13817/

(Originally published in Japanese. Banner photo: Ramen Genten [Usugiri Yakibuta] from Jinrui Mina Menrui. ¥847. © Yamakawa Daisuke.)