Kanda Soba Hongdae 칸다소바 홍대점

The room is compact and the queue near Hongdae runs long, and late arrivals may find some items already sold out. Mazesoba hits with layered savory flavor from the first bite, while aburasoba, built on oil with a mild chili edge, eats lighter. The pork rind is dense and chewy rather than tough, but adding it makes the bowl big enough that the customary rice at the end becomes a stretch. Jiroke ramen, a limited item, scales down the portion, salt and fat of a standard Jiro-style bowl, which makes it an easy introduction. Complimentary pickled radish carries ginger and sesame-oil notes.