In March 2023, while walking around the Minami-senba area in Osaka, I was drawn to a bright yellow sign for a restaurant called "Butayama Ramen." This shop specializes in "Jiro-style" ramen, which is famous for its massive portions of vegetables and thick slices of pork. Even if you aren't a competitive eater, this place is quite accessible as they offer smaller noodle portions. This post is a simple record of my visit and the surprising amount of meat I received.
📍 1. The Iconic Yellow Sign in Minami-senbaThe restaurant is located near the Shinsaibashi shopping district and is very easy to spot.
The bold yellow color is the trademark of this shop. Even from a distance, the large photos of ramen on the outside give you a clear idea of the heavy meal waiting inside. It has a very energetic and straightforward "street food" vibe.📍 2. Ordering via Vending Machine (Important Note on Pricing)
Like many ramen shops in Japan, you start by purchasing a ticket from the vending machine near the entrance.
I chose the "Mini Buta W" (1,150 JPY). In this shop, "Mini" refers to the noodle weight (125g), which is actually closer to a standard serving size in other ramen shops. However, the "W" stands for double pork, meaning you get 8 thick slices of chashu instead of the usual 2.
Please Note: This record is from my visit in March 2023. Prices and menu items may have changed since then. Please refer to the actual prices listed at the restaurant when you visit.
📍 3. Counter Seating and the "Topping Call"
The interior consists mainly of a long counter where you can see the chefs preparing the bowls right in front of you.
One unique tradition of Jiro-style ramen is the "Call." Just before your noodles are served, the chef will ask if you want garlic (Ninniku iremasu ka?). You can use the guide on the table to ask for more or less garlic, vegetables, back fat (Abura), or soup intensity (Karame). For beginners, saying "Futsuu" (Standard) is the safest way to go.
📍 4. The Meat Mountain: 8 Slices of Thick Chashu
When the bowl finally arrived, the amount of meat was honestly quite overwhelming.
Even though I ordered the "Mini" noodle portion, the 8 slices of thick-cut pork created a literal wall of meat. The chashu was well-marinated and incredibly tender, almost melting in my mouth. For anyone who loves pork, this is a dream come more true.
📍 5. Chewy Thick Noodles and Rich Broth
Underneath the mountain of meat and bean sprouts lies the heart of the dish.
The noodles are thick, flat, and very chewy, designed to hold onto the rich and salty soy-based pork broth. The large serving of crunchy bean sprouts helps balance the intensity of the soup. It is a heavy, satisfying meal that provides plenty of energy for a day of walking around Osaka.
📍 Store Information & Address
Name: Butayama Ramen - Minami-senba (ラーメン豚山 南船場店)
Address: 3-9-6 Minami-senba, Chuo Ward, Osaka
Access: About a 3-5 minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station (Subway Midosuji Line).
💡 Ryobiyori’s Travel Notes:
The "Mini" size at Butayama is more than enough for most people. If you are very hungry and want to focus on the meat, the "Buta W" (8 slices) is the way to go. It’s best to avoid the peak lunch hour (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM) to minimize wait times. This is a great, straightforward spot to satisfy a serious craving for meat and bold flavors while exploring the Shinsaibashi area.
