二代目げんこつ屋 Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum: Genkotsuya

Genkotsuya is one of the rare ramen shops with its sole branch in the Ramen Museum. This is now the nidaime, or "second generation" of Genkotsuya, meaning the son of the late Mr. Genkotsu has taken over his father's business. The OG Genkotsuya first opened in 1980 in Koenji, a hip little area outside of central Tokyo. There were a few branches scattered around Tokyo proper, but they all brought the curtains down in 2007 due to the owner's failing health. Finally, his son had some ramen pangs and revived his father's spirit through this Museum-exclusive branch.

I really like this shop. The noodles are smooth, elastic, and are coated with finely chopped scallions.

The bowl looks deceptively simple, but the soup has untold depth due to a mix of dried tuna, pork, and chicken soup. The signature bowl is a mix of shoyu and shio broth that creates a well-balanced soup with a shiny, golden hue. I was already stuffed after eating so many bowls in one day, but couldn't stop sipping the soup because of its mild and soft taste.

If any more branches open up in Tokyo again, I'll definitely go back and honor the spirit of the late master Genkotsu. Even though Genkotsu Jr. is still young, I hope he continues his father's passion.

The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is about a 5-minute walk from Shin-Yokohama station. All shops are open from 11am-11pm. You can access the website at:

http://www.raumen.co.jp/english/

Lum