Kikanbo in Kanda is known for its Karashibi Miso Ramen, a fiery combination of chili pepper heat and the distinctive tingling, numbing sensation of Japanese sansho pepper. The signature ramen was developed around the idea of creating a bowl that engages all five senses, with layers of spice, aroma, heat, and numbness. Kikanbo opened its first shop in Kanda, Tokyo in 2009, and through the years I've been there several times. It's my favorite spot in the world for spicy ramen, and an absolute must-visit, if you're in Tokyo.
I love spicy miso ramen, and Kikanbo serves some of the best. You choose your preferred level of spiciness ranging from non-spicy to devil spicy. I’ve previously struggled with handling regular spicy at Kikanbo, but for unknown reasons I decided to order the devil spicy ramen last time I was there. The staff warned me that it was very spicy, and told me that I could still change my mind, but I insisted on getting the devil spicy ramen.
Of course devil spicy was way too spicy for me, and after only a couple of sips, I was sweating like a pig. I gulped down 4 glasses of water, but I was still gasping for air, and the Japanese man sitting next to me, started to look worried. I tried circumnavigating those red pepper flakes, but it was impossible, so after eating the egg, I gave up.
Kikanbo – All you need to know
For fans of spicy ramen, there is no way around Kikanbo. The miso based broth is cooked on pork bone, chicken bone and different kinds of vegetables in more than 10 hours. Chili oil, made from a well-balanced mix of chili peppers, brings the heat to the bowl, which is then topped with braised pork belly, baby corn and bean sprouts and egg (add on), and drizzled with more chili pepper to create the requested level of spiciness.
A bowl of Karashibi Miso Ramen is 1080 yen (2026). “Kara” (Spicy) and “Shibi” (Numbing) can each be customized: None / Light / Regular / Extra.
For an additional 200 yen, you can get the “Oni-Mashi” (Demon/Devil level). While it might be tempting to see if you can handle Devil Spicy, I strongly advice against it, as you will most likely end up with a burning mouth and an untouched bowl of ramen. I would say Regular level is suitable for most people.
Kikanbo is a typical Japanese ramen restaurant, so it is not a place to hang around for hours. Considering that there is usually a line outside, it is also common courtesy not to sit around for too long.
Read about my first visit at Kikanbo back in 2015
Kikanbo, 2 Chome-10-9 Kajicho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 101-0044, Japan
