MMA fighter Yutaka Saito is the unlikely force behind this Akihabara noodle palace, set up by the former Rizin featherweight champion and self-styled ‘ramen freak’ in January 2025 following a successful crowdfunding campaign.
Unlike your typical athlete restaurant, Menzin is neither overpriced nor low on substance – the ramen here is for real, and available for a these days eminently reasonable ¥1,000 per bowl. During lunchtime, their main offering is the Wagyu Paitan Tanmen, in which the rich and creamy soup gets capable backup from some wonderfully chewy noodles and an ample serving of fresh veg.
At dinner, attention turns to the Wagyu Gyushi Mazesoba, a serving of the same artisanal noodles alongside soft roast beef and veggies including onion, pickles and scallions, with a potage-like, ultra-creamy soup on the side. Whether you choose to dip the noodles in the soup or pour the latter all over your plate, the result is sure to satisfy. If he can maintain this level of quality going forward, Saito is set for stardom in the ramen ring, too.