Menya Shōmon

　When I ask guests what they’d like for lunch whilst guiding them, the most common answers are sushi, tempura and ramen. Whilst sushi can be enjoyed at conveyor-belt sushi restaurants and tempura at restaurants with table seating—making them suitable for families—ramen often involves shops with counter seating only, which can be a bit of a hassle.

　In this context, Menya Shōmon is a real lifesaver, as it offers tables seating four. It’s conveniently located between Kinkaku-ji and Daitoku-ji, and the food is delicious. You can choose from a range of broths, including chicken bone broth with aged soy sauce, chicken and pork bone broth with seafood, and chicken and pork bone broth with aged soy sauce—ranging from light to rich flavours.

　However, the real highlight here is the chef. He is a very kind man who is more than happy to pose for a commemorative photo with customers who have particularly enjoyed their meal.