Yokohama's Ippinko Opens a New Location in Kawasaki
On April 28, 2025,
Ippinko, the renowned Yokohama-based restaurant famous for its tanmen, officially opened its 14th location at
Kawasaki Le Front in Kanagawa Prefecture. Founded in 1955, Ippinko has been a staple in Yokohama, beloved for its signature dishes that marry rich flavors and fresh ingredients. This new venue embodies the restaurant's 70-year legacy while also revitalizing its menu in anticipation of its 100th anniversary.
Revamping Tradition
Ippinko is dedicated to honoring its history while revitalizing its offerings for a modern audience. This year marks not just the restaurant's milestone anniversary but also a significant update to its brand and cuisine. The flagship dish, the
Ganso Zetsurin Tanmen (the original exquisite tanmen), showcases seasonal ingredients with a modern twist to appeal to both new customers and long-time fans. To complement the beloved tanmen, the Kawasaki location boasts an array of fried rice options and a delightful selection of Taiwanese desserts, perfect for café-style outings.
Menu Highlights
The fried rice menu features
ten different varieties. Classic options such as
Gomoku Fried Rice and
Shrimp Lettuce Fried Rice are complemented by favorites like
Lu Rou Fan and
Chicken Rice, catering to fans of Taiwanese cuisine. For those looking for visually stunning dishes, options like
Meat and Egg Fried Rice and
Overflowing Shrimp Fried Rice promise not just taste but also an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Additionally, the restaurant serves
Taiwanese sweets, perfect for a sweet afternoon treat. Highlights include
Tapioca Almond Tofu, a visually appealing dessert topped with fruit sauces; diners can choose from flavors such as plain, strawberry, kiwi, and mango. The showcase also features popular Chinese buns, or
manju, like the fluffy
Toru Tan and
Chee Bow, alongside various tapioca drinks and Taiwanese castella.
Location and Ambiance
The
Kawasaki Le Front shopping center, located just a minute's walk from JR Kawasaki Station, is a bustling hub frequented by students and locals alike. The
Ippinko restaurant, situated on the second floor in the Food Village area, accommodates up to
380 seats in a food court-style setting, offering a casual yet vibrant dining environment. With operating hours from
11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last order at 8:30 PM), patrons can enjoy meals throughout the day and take a break from shopping or studying.
Maintaining a Legacy
Starting from a modest nine-seat counter in Yokohama's Noge district,
Ippinko has grown significantly over the years, successfully navigating the evolving culinary landscape while retaining its core values. The restaurant's dedication to quality and a family-friendly environment has made it a gathering spot for generations of