Name in Japanese: こまどり (Komadori) which translates to "little bird" in Japanese, symbolizing a welcoming and homey atmosphere, much like the restaurant's cozy setting.
Location: Komadori Ramen is situated in the Takenomachi area of Niigata, it is along the way from the drive from Niigata City to the famous Yahiko Shrine and hot spring areas.
Address: 2454-1 Takenomachi, Nishikan-ku, Niigata 953-0023, Japan, 〒953-0023 新潟県新潟市西蒲区竹野町2454-1
Hours:
Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tabelog Rating: 3.57
How to get there: From Niigata Station, Komadori Ramen is approximately a 30-minute drive. Given its location in a suburban area, it's advisable to use a car or taxi for the most convenient access. The restaurant offers parking facilities for visitors. Upon arrival, you'll notice its traditional Japanese exterior, making it a charming spot for an authentic dining experience.
History & Background
Komadori Ramen (こまどり) didn’t start out intending to create a culinary legacy ...it just sort of happened, like all the best things do. Opened in 1968 in Iwamuro Onsen, a hot spring area in Niigata’s Nishikan Ward, it started as a simple ramen shop catering to locals. But like all great food stories, there’s a twist.
When Komadori began delivering bowls of their signature miso ramen to customers, they got an unexpected complaint: it was too rich. Instead of doubling down, the owner adapted, sending out a diluted version of the soup. The result? People loved it. Word spread, and soon even diners visiting the shop were ordering this “lighter” miso ramen. This happy accident gave birth to what’s now known as Niigata Rich Miso Ramen, a style that’s taken on a life of its own.
This unique take on miso ramen varies depending on the miso’s origin and the specific balance of soup and seasoning. Komadori’s version remains at the heart of the movement, embodying the bold yet adaptable spirit of Niigata’s food culture. Visiting this spot is like tasting the original riff of a jazz standard that inspired countless covers—except this one comes with a side of crispy fried chicken.
Menu Highlights & Ordering Tips
Komadori isn’t trying to impress you with a sprawling menu—it knows what it does well, and it sticks to that. At the top of the list is their Butter Miso Ramen (バター味噌ラーメン), a rich, savory bowl that balances the deep umami of miso with a generous pat of melting butter. It’s indulgent, comforting, and exactly what you want when the Niigata winter hits. If you’re looking for something a little lighter but still satisfying, go for the Salt Butter Ramen (塩バターラーメン)—it’s like a gentler handshake compared to the Butter Miso’s bear hug.
But let’s talk sides, because no visit to Komadori is complete without them. The Gyoza (餃子) are a showstopper—each dumpling is the size of your fist and made with a special dough that gives them a slightly unusual hue. It may sound like a lot, but trust me, that’s all you’ll need for the rest of the day. Pair those with their Fried Chicken (唐揚げ), which is crispy, juicy, and almost scandalously good. These aren’t just sides—they’re the supporting actors that often steal the show.
Pro tip: Order both the gyoza and the chicken. You’ll thank me later.
Final Thoughts
Komadori Ramen is the kind of place that feels like a secret, even if it’s been around for decades. Tucked away near Iwamuro Onsen, it’s not the easiest spot to get to, and you’ll likely be the only tourist there. But that’s part of the charm. The place exudes the kind of authenticity that only comes from decades of quietly perfecting your craft.
The miso ramen, especially the Butter Miso, is the star here. It’s rich and deeply satisfying, like the culinary equivalent of sinking into a hot spring after a long day (and conveniently, there’s an actual hot spring nearby if you want to make that comparison literal). And those gyoza? Absolute monsters in the best way possible—one bite, and you’ll understand why they only serve you a few at a time.
This isn’t just a ramen shop—it’s a slice of Niigata’s soul. If you’re a ramen enthusiast or a traveler with a penchant for uncovering local gems, Komadori Ramen deserves a spot on your itinerary. Sure, it’s out of the way, but isn’t the best food always worth the journey?
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