Ichidaiji

Located in Takinocho, Nagaokakyo, Ichidaiji was once a neighbourhood diner where regulars flocked for bowls of ramen. Following changes in the owner's health, ramen service drew to a close, and the shop is now embraced as a teishoku eatery celebrated for its comforting, homestyle dishes.

The set meal is an unpretentious yet satisfying spread pairing rice and miso soup with a Japanese rolled omelette, salad or simmered greens, and a choice of main dish. Diners are also welcome to a single rice refill, making it a dependable choice for a hearty, filling lunch.

Main options feature time-tested comforts such as salt-grilled mackerel, beef simmered with burdock root, and tender chicken liver, allowing guests to tailor the meal to their appetite. A broad array of homestyle à la carte small plates is also available, including tatsuta-fried mackerel, simmered chicken and vegetables, sweet simmered pumpkin, garlic chive omelette (niratama), and spinach with sesame dressing.

Table seating inside makes Ichidaiji equally suited to a quiet solo meal or an unhurried spread of small plates enjoyed with a bottled beer or canned chūhai. Reservations are not accepted and payment is strictly cash only, making the shop an easy, spontaneous stop while exploring the Nagaokakyo area.