If you’re passing through Tokyo’s Haneda Airport Terminal 3 and craving a comforting bowl of ramen, Setagaya is the place to go.
I recently enjoyed their famous tonkotsu ramen, and it was a delicious introduction to one of Japan’s most beloved dishes.
My Experience at Setagaya
I ate tonkotsu ramen at Setagaya in Haneda Airport Terminal 3. This popular chain, famous across Japan, is known for its rich pork bone broth blended with a savory dashi—a traditional Japanese stock made from kombu (seaweed) and bonito flakes—that adds a burst of umami flavor to the ramen.
For those unfamiliar, dashi is a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, a delicate broth that brings depth and complexity to dishes like miso soup and, in this case, ramen.
The combination of the creamy tonkotsu broth and the umami-packed dashi made every spoonful at Setagaya absolutely unforgettable. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the pork melted in my mouth—a true taste of Japan!
During the busy summer holiday season, there was a line in front of the restaurant, but thanks to the quick turnover, the wait was only about 10 minutes — not too long at all.
Looking at the menu, I ordered the “Tonkotsu Ramen All-In.(1,350yen)” It’s a deluxe bowl loaded with toppings like chashu pork, a seasoned boiled egg, and shredded wood ear mushrooms—a truly indulgent treat!
The ramen arrived with its toppings beautifully arranged, looking so appetizing it instantly whetted my appetite.
The chashu pork was tender and melt-in-your-mouth soft, bursting with rich umami flavor with every bite.
The soup combined the rich, creamy depth of pork bone broth with the aromatic flavor of seafood dashi, creating a complex and satisfying taste. It’s a must-try for fans of seafood-based dashi!
The thin noodles clung perfectly to the soup, with a firm, chewy texture that made every bite incredibly satisfying.
The shredded wood ear mushrooms added a crisp, crunchy texture as a delightful accent, making every bite so much fun to eat.
The seasoned egg had a creamy, runny yolk, perfectly infused with rich flavor—absolutely delicious!
Setagaya’s tonkotsu ramen strikes a perfect balance between its rich, creamy broth and the aromatic seafood dashi, making it a must-try for anyone who loves seafood-based dashi. If you’re passing through Haneda Airport Terminal 3, don’t miss out on this incredible bowl!
