Ramen Manrai

Broth for the noodles and for the pork

Koichi Takano founded Manrai in 1961. An August 2025 report from the restaurant describes a chicken-led broth simmered with pork leg bones for about six hours, plus a separate aromatic broth for cooking the pork. Japanese pork shoulder loin is simmered in that second broth, then dipped in the maintained char-siu soy seasoning. In char-siu zaru, that seasoning meets chicken broth, white leek, menma, shichimi and finishing oils. Ramen arrives with noodles in the broth; zaru keeps them separate for dipping. Start with which way you want to eat.

More pork, or natto and egg

Char-siu zaru centres on large pieces of pork. Natto zaru instead gives the noodles a coating of fermented beans and raw egg, while still containing pork. The same 2025 report explains that the beans are mixed with egg and a little yuzu, without the packaged natto sauce, incorporating air before the topping meets the dipping broth. It is a distinct choice for someone who likes beans and egg, rather than simply less char siu. The report’s tax-inclusive prices were ¥1,800 for char-siu zaru and ¥1,450 for natto zaru. Check the present ticket price before ordering.

A counter for one substantial meal

With 15 counter seats, this is a visit built around a bowl rather than a long group dinner. Consider the substantial noodles and pork before combining it with other ramen stops. Bring cash and follow the entrance ticket instructions. The address is 1-4-10 Nishi-Shinjuku; nearby Horiuchi is a different restaurant. The venue listing gives 11:00–23:00 and no reservations, subject to changes. Allow 30–45 minutes for ordering and eating as a planning estimate, with any queue added.

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Before you go

Hours and fees

Tabelog lists 11:00–23:00, no reservations and no card, e-money or QR payments as of 18 October 2026. Bring cash and check for a changed schedule on your visit date.

Good to know

The 15-seat counter can involve waiting. Bring cash and follow the entrance information for menu, prices and ordering.

Access

Confirm entrance, seating and any required assistance with the operator before visiting.