Menya Torai
Table of Contents
Menya Torai
Restaurant Overview
Key Features
- A Jiro-style ramen specialty shop that opened in 2024 near Kamikumamoto, designed to be welcoming even for beginners.
- The shop is run by a former rugby player (alumnus of the famous Kogyo High School club), and the name “Torai” is a pun on the rugby term “Try.”
- Features powerful, homemade thick noodles made right on the second floor, paired with a mild yet flavorful pork-bone-soy broth that is easier to drink than typical Jiro styles.
Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3-3-5 Kamikumamoto, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto |
| Access | 2-minute walk from JR Kamikumamoto Station |
| Phone | - |
| Business Hours | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM |
| Regular Holidays | None |
| Temporary Closures | - |
| Seating | 6 Counter seats only (Compact but very clean) |
| Smoking Policy | Non-smoking throughout |
| Parking | None (100g extra noodle service available with nearby parking ticket) |
| Official SNS | |
| Official Website | - |
| Other Gourmet Sites | Google Map: Menya Torai |
Main Menu
| Recommended | Category | Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ★ | Ramen | Ramen (Selectable Noodle Amount) | From ¥900 |
| ★ | Ramen | Special Ramen (with Branded Egg) | ¥1,100 |
| ★ | Soupless | Soupless Curry Ramen | ¥1,000 |
| Side | Aburi (Seared) Pork Mayo Don | ¥450 |
Prices are approximate. Please check the latest prices at the restaurant.
Instant Ramen Introduction
No online shop or official sales information is currently available.
Google Reviews Analysis
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating (★) | 4.2 / 5.0 |
| Number of Reviews | 111 |
(As of March 19, 2026)
Positive Review Trends
- Unlike many Jiro-style shops, there is no complicated “calling” system; ordering through a ticket machine for your preferred toppings is a big plus.
- The aroma of the homemade wheat noodles and their chewy, powerful texture is outstanding.
- The soup isn’t overly salty and lets the pork bone umami shine, making it highly recommended for Jiro-style beginners.
- The thick chashu is tender, and side dishes like the seared pork mayo bowl are also high quality.
Areas for Improvement
- With only 6 counter seats, long lines often form outside during peak hours.
- There is no dedicated parking; customers must use nearby pay lots.
Summary & Recommendations
Recommended For
- Those looking for an authentic yet “approachable” Jiro-style ramen experience in Kumamoto.
- Noodle fans who want to dive into powerful, homemade thick noodles that reflect the strength of a rugby player.
- Beginners who are intimidated by traditional Jiro rules but want to experience that massive volume and flavor.
Tips for Visiting
- Noodle portions start at a manageable 100g, so smaller eaters and female guests can enjoy their meal without worry.
- If you use a nearby pay parking lot, show your ticket or certificate to get an extra 100g of noodles for free—don’t forget!
- The “Curry-flavored” soupless ramen is a hidden gem with many repeat fans. Give it a try if you want a change of pace.