Discover Comforting Ramen and Wagyu Sukiyaki Rice from Tokyo’s Celebrated Noodle Experts
Aidaya 2 Ramen Opens in Ueno by Michelin-Acclaimed Koike Group
Aidaya 2 Ramen Opens in Ueno by Michelin-Acclaimed Koike Group Good news for ramen lovers exploring Tokyo! The highly respected Koike Ramen Group (Koike Keiretsu), known for its collection of noodle shops including three listed in the Michelin Guide, has just unveiled its latest venture. On March 26th, 2025, they officially opened “Aidaya 2” in the bustling Ueno district, marking the eagerly awaited second branch of their popular Aidaya restaurant.
Meet the Masters: The Koike Ramen Group
If you follow Tokyo’s ramen scene, the Koike Group (operated by Innocence Inc.) needs little introduction. Founded in 2013 by Hiromitsu Mizuhara – whose eclectic background spans music, shoemaking, and restaurant management – the group first made waves with “Tsukemen Koike,” later evolving into “Ramen Koike” in Kami-Kitazawa. Their initial success came from a sophisticated niboshi (dried sardine) ramen, celebrated for its clean umami, which quickly drew crowds.
Expansion and Accolades
Since that strong start, the Koike Group has strategically launched several successful ramen brands across Tokyo, showcasing their versatility. Their portfolio includes Chuka Soba Nishino (Hongo-Sanchome), King Seimen (Oji), Tsukemen Kinryu (Kanda), Koike no Iekei (Sugamo), the original Aidaya (Okachimachi), Hongoen (Hongo-Sanchome), and Inose (Shinjuku).
Michelin Recognition: A Mark of Quality
The group’s dedication to excellence has earned significant praise from the Michelin Guide Tokyo. Three of their establishments have received Bib Gourmand awards (signifying great food at affordable prices): Ramen Koike (honored for 7 straight years), Chuka Soba Nishino (4 consecutive years), and King Seimen (3 consecutive years). This consistent recognition highlights their commitment to quality across their different concepts.
Aidaya 2’s Signature Ramen: A Nostalgic Twist
While delicate, refined broths were the Koike Group’s initial signature, they continually explore new ramen styles. Following their venture into hearty Iekei ramen, the original “Aidaya” broadened their appeal further. Aidaya 2 now introduces a ramen designed to evoke comforting nostalgia. It features a robust base of pork bone (tonkotsu) and chicken (tori-gara), beautifully scented with saba-bushi (mackerel flakes), soda-bushi (frigate tuna flakes), and niboshi (dried sardines). It’s a classic flavor profile, reimagined with contemporary skill for a deeply satisfying and addictive bowl.
Indulge: Kuroge Wagyu Sukiyaki Rice Bowl
Complementing the excellent ramen is a standout side dish unique to Aidaya 2. Moving beyond the original Aidaya’s popular “Kuroge Wagyu Sirloin Gohan,” this new location offers “Kuroge Wagyu Sukiyaki Gohan”. Featuring premium Japanese Black Beef (Kuroge Wagyu) and a sauce inspired by sweet and savory yakiniku marinades, it’s designed to be enjoyed with a rich egg yolk mixed in – a luxurious treat alongside your noodles.
Planning Your Visit to Aidaya 2
Ready to taste this exciting new addition to Tokyo’s ramen landscape? Make sure to add Aidaya 2 to your Ueno food stops! Here are the essential details:
Restaurant Name: Aidaya 2
Address: NKT Building 1F, 6-7-19 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM / 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays & Fridays
URL: https://ramenkoike.com/
Whether you’re a dedicated follower of the Koike Group or simply seeking an exceptional bowl of ramen in Ueno, Aidaya 2 offers a delicious blend of tradition and modern culinary craft. Enjoy!
