Tenkaippin
天下一品 | てんかいっぴん
Japan's richest and creamiest "kotteri" ramen
Introduction
Tenkaippin (天下一品) is Japan's most iconic "kotteri" (ultra-rich) ramen chain. Founded in 1971 in Kyoto, this family-run chain has built its reputation on an extraordinarily rich broth that divides opinions: you either love it or hate it, but no one remains indifferent to this unique culinary experience.
🏆 The king of "kotteri"
- • Ultra-rich broth - Maximum concentration of collagen and fat
- • Unique texture - Almost solid, coats noodles like a sauce
- • Secret recipe - Cooking process jealously guarded for 50 years
- • Passionate clientele - Absolute fans called "Ten-chan addicts"
🎯 A polarizing experience
Tenkaippin isn't a ramen for everyone. Its extremely rich broth is so unique that it creates two distinct camps: those who become completely addicted and return several times a week, and those who can't finish their bowl. This polarization is part of the brand's identity.
🏮 Kyoto origins
Born in the former imperial capital, Tenkaippin developed its unique style by drawing inspiration from traditional Kyoto culinary techniques while creating something revolutionary. The first restaurant, tiny with only 9 seats, already attracted long queues.
💪 Resistance to change
Unlike other chains that adapt their recipes to modern tastes, Tenkaippin has remained faithful to its original recipe for over 50 years. This absolute consistency is part of its charm and explains the exceptional loyalty of its customers.
Detailed Menu
⚖️ The crucial choice: Kotteri vs Assari
🍜 Main Ramen
| English Name | 日本語 | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kotteri Ramen | ラーメン（こってり） | The legendary ultra-rich signature ramen | ¥770 |
| Assari Ramen | ラーメン（あっさり） | Lighter version but still flavorful | ¥770 |
| Chashu-men Kotteri | チャーシュー麺（こってり） | Kotteri with generous portions of braised pork | ¥1,100 |
| Menma Ramen | メンマラーメン | With crispy fermented bamboo shoots | ¥880 |
| Negi Ramen | ネギラーメン | With generous portion of green onions | ¥880 |
🎛️ Tenkaippin Customization
Classic toppings
- • Extra Chashu - ¥350 (tender pork)
- • Ajitsuke Soft-boiled Egg - ¥120 (marinated 24h)
- • Premium Menma - ¥150 (fermented bamboo)
- • White Negi - ¥100 (green onions)
- • Nori - ¥100 (grilled seaweed)
Special options
- • Extra kotteri - ¥100 (even richer)
- • Moyashi - ¥80 (crunchy bean sprouts)
- • Grated garlic - ¥80 (extra intensity)
- • Kaedama - ¥130 (extra noodles)
- • Black pepper - Free (flavors the broth)
🥟 Popular Side Dishes
| Name | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Gyoza (5 pieces) | Crispy pork-vegetable dumplings | ¥280 |
| Karaage | Japanese fried chicken, tender and juicy | ¥400 |
| White rice | To absorb the rich broth | ¥120 |
| Kimchi | Spicy fermented cabbage, cuts through richness | ¥200 |
The Secret of Kotteri Broth
🔥 Extreme concentration process
Tenkaippin's kotteri broth undergoes a unique cooking and concentration process
- 1. Initial cooking of pork and chicken bones for 24h
- 2. Concentration through controlled evaporation
- 3. Addition of separately simmered vegetables
- 4. Blending to create ultra-thick emulsion
- 5. Final aging for several hours
🌟 Unique characteristics
- • Almost solid texture at room temperature
- • Opaque off-white color
- • Completely adheres to noodles
- • Extremely concentrated umami taste
⚗️ Mysterious composition
- • Base of pork and chicken bones
- • Secret blend of vegetables
- • Maximum collagen concentration
- • Proprietary reduction techniques
How to Appreciate Kotteri
🍜 Optimal tasting technique
Kotteri requires a specific approach to be fully appreciated
- 1. Do NOT immediately mix the broth
- 2. First take a sip of pure broth
- 3. Let the richness coat your palate
- 4. Only then mix and eat the noodles
- 5. Alternate between noodles and broth
✅ Tips for beginners
- • Start with half a bowl if you're hesitant
- • Order rice to "cut" the richness
- • Drink green tea between sips
- • Take your time, this isn't fast food
🚫 Mistakes to avoid
- • Don't force it if you don't like it
- • Avoid eating too quickly
- • Don't order alcohol with it
- • Don't expect a "normal" ramen
"Ten-chan" Culture
👥 Passionate community
- Absolute fans - Nicknamed "Ten-chan addicts"
- Personal rituals - Everyone has their own way to enjoy
- High frequency - Some come daily
- Transmission - Parents initiating their children
🎌 Strong identity
- No compromise - No adaptation to trends
- Nostalgic atmosphere - Decor unchanged for decades
- Family service - Relaxed and warm atmosphere
- Total authenticity - 100% Japanese, 100% traditional
Essential Information
🧪 Compatibility Test
📊 Vs other ramen
🏮 Cultural Note
Tenkaippin represents the traditional soul of Japanese ramen: no concession to trends, absolute fidelity to the original recipe, and creation of a passionate community. It's the antithesis of culinary globalization, a 100% Japanese and authentic experience that doesn't seek to please everyone.