Introduction

In a surprising turn of events, a local ramen shop in Japan found itself in hot water after a couple clashed over dining etiquette. Menya Kiryu, a popular Jiro-style ramen house located in Kawaguchi, Saitama Prefecture, issued a stern reminder that when it comes to enjoying their hearty bowls of noodles, sharing is not permitted.

Unique Dining Customs

Ramen restaurants often have unique dining customs. In contrast to other eateries where sharing plates is the norm, ramen establishments expect guests to indulge in their own bowls. The situation unfolded dramatically when a couple entered Menya Kiryu and attempted to order only one bowl of the gloriously rich ramen—an action that greatly violated the restaurant’s unspoken rule.

The Viral Incident

In a now-viral social media post, Menya Kiryu recounted their side of the story. The restaurant stated: “To the couple who visited us at 1:41 p.m., we kindly request that each adult in your party orders a bowl of ramen. Your inability to comply with this straightforward request led to an unnecessary confrontation. As a result, we opted to refund your money instead of serving you, and we assert that we are perfectly fine if you choose not to return.”

Contrasting Claims

But the drama didn't end there. The couple claimed they had previously been permitted to share a bowl, mentioning a former employee's name in their defense—a claim the restaurant firmly denied. Menya Kiryu's management addressed this allegation, stating, "We have never allowed sharing, and we have you recorded on our security cameras."

Understanding the Etiquette

So, why the strong stance on social etiquette at ramen houses? Menya Kiryu specializes in Jiro-style ramen—a creation known for its mountainous portions, rich flavors, and lavish toppings, including thick cuts of chashu pork and copious amounts of garlic. For those with hearty appetites, this style is an ultimate indulgence, but for those unable to finish a bowl, the restaurant does offer "mini" sizes starting at 890 yen (about $5.75). This price, while perhaps a little high, certainly caters to anyone looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Flexible Orders Elsewhere

While some ramen shops may flexibly accommodate a different set of orders in a group, this is typically contingent on everyone participating by ordering food items with a comparable total cost—like gyoza or fried rice. The game plan at Menya Kiryu, however, is decidedly strict, as their menu focuses solely on ramen offerings, leaving no room for sidestepping the etiquette rule.

Practical Policies

The restaurant's refund policy also reflects a practical side of ramen dining. Customers prepay via vending machines before being seated, allowing for smooth transactions and minimizing waste if a confrontation arises.

Conclusion

This incident serves as a crucial reminder: the heart of ramen culture thrives on individual enjoyment and ample servings. In a world filled with confusing dining rules, one thing remains clear—the essence of ramen dining demands that each patron relishes their bowl in solitude. So the next time you find yourself at a ramen shop, remember: one person, one bowl!