Toy Box is another new-on-the-scene winner. Does this bowl look familiar?
The above shot is of the infamous 69 'N' Roll One. Ramen nerds rejoice, ramen nerds lament. The original Machida shop of 69 'N' Roll One was epic. Then they shut down to move to greener pastures in Akasaka, and their quality suffered. I'm sure there is a lot more going on here, some behind-the-scenes ramen drama (dra-men?). Speculation, as I have no knowledge of why one of the best ramen shops in the world suddenly disappeared.
It would make sense that those who worked at 69 'N' Roll would go on to do their own great things. Toy Box is a perfect example. Yamagami-san crafted his skills, and now has Toy Box to show for it.
Shoyu, shio, and an aburasoba made with chicken oil. The shop also has a miso ramen that comes and goes.
Chicken oil is a tough ingredient. It can ruin anything it touches, and a delicate balance is needed. Only a few shops really work wonders with this ingredient. Saikoro comes to mind.
The aburasoba is a tasty mess of oil, flavor, an noodles.
But it is the shoyu that really shines.
Shoyu that is definitely a cousin of the award wining Rock and Roll ramen. Deep soy flavors and perfectly cooked toppings.
Worth a trek to the eastern reaches of Tokyo.
Be warned that the shop is quite strict, and will not be happy if you don't finish everything.
東京都荒川区東日暮里1-1-3
Tokyo, Arakawa-ku, HIgashinippori 1-1-3
Closest staiton: Minowa
Open 11:00-15:00, 18:00-21:00
Sundays 11:00-15:00
Closed Mondays and some Tuesdays
