Saiho

When a craving for old-fashioned Chinese noodles strikes, Saiho in Suehiro, Ichikawa, is a place to keep in mind. One of its signature dishes, tanmen, has a simple, nostalgic flavour without any fuss, and the easygoing feel makes it the sort of neighbourhood restaurant you might want to return to regularly. The classic ramen, with a clear soup and straightforward noodles, is another comforting favourite.

Alongside the noodle dishes, stir-fried meat and garlic chives is a satisfying choice when you feel like a heartier meal. Beer and other alcoholic drinks are also available, making the restaurant suited not only to lunch but also to an early-evening drink with a plate of stir-fry.

The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife team and has a homely atmosphere where solo diners can feel at ease. Payment is cash only, and takeout is available. It is a welcoming spot to have in the neighbourhood.