Mokuren

The aroma of spices rising with the steam makes Mokuren the kind of neighbourhood Chinese restaurant that invites a spontaneous stop. Set among the quiet streets of Minami-Shinozaki-cho, it serves a varied menu for diners looking for a satisfying meal.

Among the noodle dishes, su-ra-tan noodles stand out, with a broth enriched by the savoury flavours of its ingredients. A balance of tang and spice clings to the noodles and whets the appetite. There’s plenty of choice to suit the mood, too: mapo yakisoba, with spicy sauce over stir-fried noodles; rich tantan noodles; and fragrant Shanghai-style fried noodles. Noodle dishes and yakisoba are also available in reasonably priced sets with accompaniments such as pickles, salad and almond tofu, making them a practical choice for a quick lunch.

For a hearty dish to eat with rice, look to the familiar Chinese favourites and set meals. Sichuan-style mapo tofu is fragrant with Sichuan pepper, while another dish pairs fluffy egg with crisp wood ear mushrooms. Garlic chives and liver are stir-fried while retaining a pleasantly crisp texture. Seafood options include chilli prawns and white fish in sweet-and-sour sauce, alongside fragrant fried rice dishes. In the evening, these dishes are well suited to a leisurely meal with beer.

The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes the restaurant comfortable for a casual solo lunch as well as a meal with family or friends. It’s an unpretentious, reliable neighbourhood spot where it’s easy to find something appealing.