Menbaka says it opened in Kyoto in 1984 and a year later began pouring flaming oil over chopped Kyoto leeks at the counter, the origin of "fire ramen", still its one signature dish.
Why it's unique
The shop claims to be where fire ramen was invented, beginning in 1985. The origin claim is the shop's own, so it is attributed and confidence is lowered; the researcher also notes it is now tourist-priced.
The performance is the dish: about 30 cc of leek oil heated to around 360 °C is poured over the bowl in front of you, with rules on how to sit so you stay out of the way of the flame.
Before you go
About 30 cc of leek oil heated to around 360 °C goes on just before serving. You fold your arms behind your back, lean back and keep your feet on the floor; glasses and bag go on the shelf under the counter, and staff drape wet towels around you. You may not film during the fire, but staff will film it on your phone.
Reservations are only for set courses (lunch ¥7,980; a ¥20,000 dinner course from October 2026); the plain menu is walk-in only, so no booking means a queue outside. Vegan, gluten-free and Muslim-friendly versions exist. Open 11:00 to 22:00 per the official site. Single negi ramen was ¥1,350 in 2019. Book via the site or TableCheck.
