Hello, fellow travelers!
This is Rikotama, writer for SaruKuma!

Today I’m introducing a hidden gem in the heart of Shimotori, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto City:
Tokyo Abura-Gumi Sohonten Kumamoto-Gumi.

Have you ever heard of abura soba?

Put simply, it’s ramen without the soup!
Instead of broth, the noodles are tossed with the shop’s signature tare sauce, flavored oil, vinegar, and chili oil — and you mix it all together yourself!

I’ll admit, the first time I heard about it, I thought:
“Abura soba? That sounds like loads of garlic and pork fat… won’t I gain weight?! (>_<)”

But once I actually tried it,
I was completely won over!

Now it’s one of those dishes I crave on a regular basis (・ω・)ノ

Tokyo Abura-Gumi Sohonten opened its very first shop in Akasaka, Tokyo, back in 2008.

After expanding across the capital, the Kumamoto branch (Kumamoto-Gumi) opened in January 2019 ☆
It’s the only location in all of Kyushu (*^▽^*)

They’ve recently started offering takeout as well!

You order using a meal ticket vending machine — a classic Japanese ramen shop experience!

The shop has 12 counter seats!

I arrived just past noon on a Saturday and it was packed, but I was seated within about 5 minutes.

At the counter you’ll find handy instructions on how to enjoy abura soba the right way!

There’s also a friendly explanation of what abura soba actually is!

Believe it or not, it has only two-thirds the calories of regular ramen!
And about half the salt content!

Great news for travelers (and parents!) who like to keep an eye on what they eat (*’ω’*)

Recommended Menu

Here’s the menu!

《Abura Soba》
Regular 160g
Large 240g
Double 320g
All sizes ¥780!

《Spicy Miso Abura Soba》
Regular 160g
Large 240g
Double 320g
All sizes ¥860!

Here’s the great part — all sizes are the same price, so go big without paying extra!

This time, I went with the Abura Soba (Large) — ¥780
+ Special Topping A (sesame green onions & soft-boiled egg) — ¥180.

It arrived beautifully arranged in the bowl — but here’s the fun part…

You mix it all up vigorously! (≧▽≦)

As you stir, the irresistible aroma of the tare sauce and oil rises up — heavenly!
The warm, thick noodles soak up every drop of the sauce and toppings, and before I knew it, I was devouring the whole bowl.

Even with the oil coating the noodles, it never feels greasy or heavy.

The soft-boiled egg adds a creamy richness that ties everything together ☆

Without a soup base, it’s surprisingly light on the stomach,
yet leaves you feeling completely satisfied (*’ω’*)

On the table you’ll find chopped onions to add as you like!

Optional toppings include parmesan cheese (¥50)
and mayonnaise (¥50) — yes, really! ♪

Customizing the flavor to your own taste is half the fun!

I even spotted groups of women dining there comfortably ♡ — it’s a relaxed, welcoming spot for solo travelers and small groups alike.

If you’re exploring downtown Kumamoto, definitely come try this abura soba for yourself!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.