Takeya (Ramen)
Table of Contents
Perched in the residential Tamazato-danchi district on the heights of Kagoshima, Takeya is a destination that commands respect. Located within the “Monkey Plaza” shopping center, this shop often has a queue forming well before opening. Founded by a chef trained at the legendary “Butatoro,” Takeya has rapidly ascended to become one of the city’s most respected names, combining classic flavors with modern precision.
Restaurant Overview
Features and Particulars
- Highly Acclaimed ‘Noh-jun’ Rich Broth : The signature of Takeya is its ability to balance intense richness with remarkable drinkability. The “Noh-jun Kotteri” features a pork and chicken bone base, elevated by fragrant black garlic oil (ma-yu), back fat, and crispy fried onions—providing a complex flavor profile that has earned top rankings in local championships.
- Both ‘Rich’ and ‘Light’ Options : For those seeking something refreshing, the “Tan-rei Assari” uses a pork and chicken stock base infused with local seafood flakes and finished with yuzu oil, offering a bright, sophisticated contrast to the heavier traditional styles.
- Unmatched Hospitality for All Generations : The shop is uniquely family-friendly, featuring a dedicated kids’ space and spacious table seating. By providing complimentary pickled daikon and affordable rice balls (onigiri), it maintains local traditions while catering to a contemporary, relaxed dining experience.
Basic Information
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-6-10 Tamazato-danchi, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima (Monkey Plaza) |
| Access | 20-minute drive from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station. 2-minute walk from the “Tamazato-danchi Chuo” bus stop. |
| Phone Number | 099-228-5558 |
| Business Hours | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Closing when stock runs out) |
| Regular Holiday | Wednesdays |
| Special Holidays / Info | - |
| Seating / Facilities | 24 Seats (Counter, table seating, and dedicated kids’ space) |
| Smoking / Non-smoking | Non-smoking throughout |
| Parking | Yes (Shared parking at Monkey Plaza available) |
| Official SNS | |
| Official Website | - |
| Other Foodie Sites | Google Map: https://maps.google.com/?cid=12735169299777127397 |
Main Menu
| Recommended | Category | Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ★ | Rich | ‘Noh-jun’ Kotteri Ramen | 900 JPY |
| ★ | Light | ‘Tan-rei’ Assari Ramen | 850 JPY |
| ★ | Miso | ‘Hoh-jun’ Miso Ramen | 900 JPY |
| Rice | Onigiri (1 pc) | 50 JPY | |
| Special | Mazesoba (Mixed Noodle) | 850 JPY |
Prices are estimates. The “Noh-jun” version pairs perfectly with the shop’s special flat-ish noodles and melt-in-your-mouth charcoal-seared char siu.
Google Reviews Analysis
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating (Stars) | 4.3 / 5.0 |
| Review Count | 443 reviews |
(As of March 20, 2026)
Positive Review Trends
- “The depth of the broth is incredible, yet it finishes so cleanly. Easily my favorite ramen in all of Kagoshima.”
- “The char siu is perfectly seared and so tender. The fried onions add a brilliant texture and aroma.”
- “With a kids’ space, we can enjoy world-class ramen without worrying about the little ones. Highly recommended for families.”
Points for Improvement / Negative Trends
- “Because it’s so popular, the wait can be quite long. It’s best to arrive before they open.”
- “While the parking is spacious, the whole plaza gets crowded during the peak of lunch, so plan accordingly.”
Summary & Recommendations
Recommended for:
- Diners who want to experience the “elite tier” of Kagoshima ramen, as validated by local championships.
- Anyone looking for a chef who has evolved the skills learned at famous shops like “Butatoro” into a unique, signature masterwork.
- Families seeking a high-quality, professional environment where they can enjoy authentic ramen in comfort.
Tips for Visiting:
- Although it’s slightly away from the city center in Tamazato-danchi, Takeya is absolutely worth the trip. The most popular choice is the “Noh-jun Kotteri.” Snack on the complimentary daikon while you wait—it’s an essential part of the Kagoshima experience. Since they close once the stock runs out, always check their Instagram before making a special journey.