What is Toyama Black Ramen?
Toyama Black Ramen is known as the local ramen of Toyama Prefecture.
It's a memorable bowl featuring a jet-black soup and a rich soy sauce flavor that you won't forget once you see it.
This ramen was originally devised for Toyama's laborers, offering a "salty yet addictive" taste.
It uses a generous amount of dark soy sauce, and the soup pairs well with thick, straight noodles.
In this article, we'll delve into the history of Toyama Black Ramen, recommend ways to enjoy it, and introduce famous local spots!
The History of Toyama Black Ramen
1. Ramen Born in Post-war Toyama
The birth of Toyama Black Ramen dates back to **1955**, after World War II.
The shop "Taiki," considered the place of origin, devised it as a nutritious meal for workers.
At that time, physical laborers working in Toyama needed to replenish salt during their breaks.
Thus, a rich soy sauce soup with a higher salt content than regular ramen was developed.
2. Distinctive Appearance and Taste
The most notable feature of Toyama Black Ramen is its black soup.
The secret to its blackness is the ample use of dark soy sauce, a Toyama specialty.
Features of Toyama Black Ramen:
- Soup: Rich soy sauce flavor with a kick of pepper
- Noodles: Thick, firm, straight noodles
- Toppings: Thick slices of chashu, bamboo shoots, green onions, and lots of pepper
- Taste Characteristics: Strongly salty but addictively flavorful
Because the soup's flavor is intense, the key is to enjoy it with the noodles rather than drinking it all like typical ramen.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy
Toyama Black Ramen offers a slightly different way to enjoy compared to regular ramen.
Here are some tips to savor the rich soup even more.
Tips for Enjoying Toyama Black:
- First, savor the noodles → The chewy thick noodles absorb the soup beautifully!
- Eat it with rice → The rich soup pairs excellently with rice!
- Don't drink all the soup → Due to the strong salt content, it's recommended to enjoy the soup gradually.
Top 3 Toyama Black Ramen Shops
1. Nishicho Taiki
The origin of Toyama Black. Known for its punchy, rich flavor!
- Recommended Point: If you want to taste the original Toyama Black, this is the place!
- Access: 15-minute walk from JR Toyama Station
2. Menya Iroha
A famous shop that has won multiple Tokyo Ramen Show titles. A flavor that appeals to everyone!
- Recommended Point: Less intense and easy-to-eat Toyama Black
- Access: Inside Toyama Station's "Kitokito Ichiba Toyamarché"
3. Ramen Makotoya
A popular spot offering a peppery and punchy Toyama Black!
- Recommended Point: Enjoy a spicy Black Ramen
- Access: 10 minutes by car from JR Toyama Station
Useful Information for Travelers
Where can you eat it?
- Ramen shops around Toyama Station
- Dining areas around Shinminato Port
- Some branches available in Tokyo and Osaka (e.g., "Menya Iroha")
Can it be a souvenir?
Toyama Black Ramen is also available as instant ramen and cup noodles, making it a great souvenir!
Available at Toyama Station, airports, and roadside stations.
Recommended Time to Eat
- Lunch: Toyama Black's high salt content makes it perfect for lunch!
- Dinner: If you eat it late at night, drink plenty of water to prevent thirst!
Conclusion and FAQs
Conclusion
Toyama Black Ramen is a rich soy sauce ramen originating from Toyama Prefecture, characterized by its black soup.
Originally created for laborers, its punchy taste is addictively delicious.
Enjoy it with rice for an even more delightful experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can you eat Toyama Black Ramen?
A: You can enjoy it near Toyama Station or at "Nishicho Taiki" and "Menya Iroha"!
Q: What does it taste like?
A: It's a very strong soy sauce flavor with a powerful pepper punch. The key is to enjoy it with the noodles without drinking all the soup!
Q: Where can I buy Toyama Black Ramen as a souvenir?
A: Available at Toyama Station, airports, and roadside stations. Cup noodle and instant versions are also available!
Q: Which shop do you recommend for first-timers?
A: For a mild taste, try "Menya Iroha," and for an authentic experience, go for "Nishicho Taiki"!
When you visit Toyama, be sure to try "Toyama Black Ramen"!
