Uchi

Hidden on a back street on the west side of Ikebukuro Station, this discreet shop offers a homely atmosphere. Enter the semi-basement space and you'll be welcomed by the lady in charge, who specialises in lightly seasoned noodle mixtures. The Chuka Soba (from ¥700) is made of seafood and pork stock, offering a rich taste enhanced by fresh yuzu and chewy noodles – very easy to finish. Choose the Tokusei Soba ('special noodles') for the right to add toppings like soft-boiled egg, roast pork chashu, bamboo shoots and fine strips of leek, all delicately prepared. Other choices include tsukemen (¥700, rich flavour but smooth enough to finish off) and the dinner-only Koi-Soba (¥720, the heaviest of the bunch).