Menchanko-Tei

Traditional Japanese noodle shop / $

43-45 W. 55th St. between 5th-6th Aves.
E, V trains to 5th Ave. & 55th St., F to 57th St. & 6th Ave.
(212) 247-1585
menchankotei.com

Mon-Sat 11:30 AM-12:30 AM,
Sun 11:30 AM-11:30 PM
No reservations needed, limited seating
Takeout available, no delivery
Visa, MC, AmEx, Discover

One of our favorite Japanese movies is Tampopo, the story of a woman whose road to self-esteem lies in mastering the art of making Japanese noodles at her tiny shop. The same tradition of excellence applies at this humble and intimate place, whose noodles are custom-made using Mongolian sea salt and spring water. Having eaten our way through the menu, we will declare a favorite: Hakata Ramen, with a rich pork broth, and topped with simmered pork. There is also an egg noodle dish named for the restaurant itself and a couple of seafood/pork selections named for the city of Nagasaki. Wash 'em down with a Sapporo beer. Under the same management are the next-door Onigashima, the other Menchanko-Tei (131 E. 45th St.), Katsuhama and Sushi-Tei (both at 11 E. 47 St.), and ONY (357 6th Ave.).

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