Keika Ramen Main Store

Keika Ramen (Main Store) is a popular Kumamoto ramen shop with branches not only in Kumamoto but also in Tokyo and overseas. Its most famous dish, “Keika Ramen,” is a masterpiece combining medium-thick straight noodles with a rich tonkotsu-and-chicken white broth (paitan) and aromatic ma-yu (black garlic oil) in perfect harmony. The “Ta-niku” topping is especially distinctive: sweet, juicy pork braised like kakuni, cut into big chunks and generously added. The garlic-forward ma-yu—made by frying aromatic vegetables in lard—is said to have originated with Keika Ramen. With its hearty, filling style, it’s especially popular among younger people and men. There’s also “Aso Ramen,” which does not use ma-yu, and can be enjoyed more lightly with takana pickles. Its addictive flavor has spread worldwide, and the main store is always busy. If you’re visiting Kumamoto, it’s a must-try. Access: about a 3-minute walk from either the tram stop Hanabatacho or Kumamoto Shiyakusho-mae, and it’s also close to the downtown area—often used together with drinking, or as a late-night finishing meal. Be aware that wait times can be long depending on the time of day.