【Yokohama-style】 Overwhelmed by the large chashu: "Yamazaki-ya" Negi Chashu Ramen

The popular shop for Yokohama-style ramen, "Yamazaki-ya." The signature dish is the "Negi Chashu Ramen," featuring a large, tender chashu that is expertly seasoned, and I wanted to try this luxurious bowl that satisfies an adult's appetite.

Why were you drawn to "Yamazaki-ya" in the sacred land of the Iekei?

If you walk about five minutes from the west exit of Yokohama Station, you'll find the popular Iekei ramen shop "Yamazaki-ya." This area is close to the Iekei headquarters "Yoshimuraya," attracting ramen lovers from all over the country. Among the sacred lands of Iekei, Yamazaki-ya continues to be loved by the locals and has been a place of interest for me for some time. It’s reputed to serve a rich yet easy-to-eat bowl, so I went to check out the rumors.

The anticipation builds while waiting for the opening.

The opening time is 11 AM. I arrived a little early at 10:55 and found one customer ahead of me. Just then, a staff member called out, “Excuse me, we’re opening at 11:15 today!” In the end, the noren was raised at 11:24. I noticed a line of about seven people forming behind me, indicating its popularity even on a weekday. The inside has about 18 seats, combining counter and table seating. The red counter is striking and creates a nostalgic atmosphere.

The presence in front of me... a large char siu overflowing from the bowl.

The moment the bowl arrived, I couldn't help but be captivated. The large slices of char siu spread out, filling the bowl. Next to it, a mound of shredded white green onions and deep green spinach. On the back, nori (seaweed) is present, tightening the overall color scheme. There are no gaps to be seen, and it gives a sense of structured beauty in this bowl.

Enticed by the aroma wafting from the steam, I reached for the soup with my chopsticks. The broth has a punch of pork bone flavor, while the creaminess of chicken fat envelops everything, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel. The sharpness of the salt and the lingering umami are exquisite, and there is even a certain elegance to it.

Adorning the bowl is a generous serving of seasoned green onions. The crunchy texture and the flavor of the savory sauce provide a light accent to the rich broth.

As I chew, the sweetness and spiciness intertwine, and combined with the fresh taste of spinach, it doesn't feel heavy at all. The green onions, which have absorbed the soup and become tender, mix with the crunchier parts, creating a pleasant rhythm within the bowl.

The thick noodles have a firm chewiness, perfectly capturing the soup and green onions. As I eat further, the balance of flavors deepens, and I can't stop using my chopsticks.

Adding a little garlic from the table halfway through completely transforms the impression of the soup. A depth of richness rises up, significantly enhancing the appetite. The layered changes in flavor as it reaches the end is a unique pleasure of this bowl.

The stunning chashu takes center stage in this bowl.

The signature large chashu is truly a leading character. The thick slice crumbles with just a touch of the chopsticks, the fat is meltingly sweet, and the lean meat retains a satisfying bite.

When lightly submerged in the soup before taking a bite, the umami stands out even more, eliciting an involuntary smile. It's no wonder that many fans come specifically for this chashu.

The sincere craftsmanship of the Yamazaki family is embodied in this bowl.

While being very close to the birthplace of the family-style ramen, Yoshimura-ya, "Yamazaki-ya" has cultivated its own unique flavor. You can feel the careful craftsmanship in the rich pork bone flavor and the mildness of chicken oil, as well as the sense of balance. Strong yet gentle... I understood why regular customers constantly pass through this shop's noren.

The soup is rich but not too heavy, making you want to drink every last drop. Once you taste it, you'll want to return to this red counter again. It was a bowl that made me appreciate the depth of Yokohama-style ramen.

Yokohama-style Ramen Yamazaki-ya
Location: 1F Chateau Yokohama West Exit Building, 2-8-10 Minami Saiwai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture

Interview & text / SYURI

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