Menya Dragon Kitchen in Zengyo: Refreshing Lemon & Paiko Ramen

Discovering Menya Dragon Kitchen in the Zengyo Area

Along the Odakyu Enoshima Line in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, the area around Zengyo Station is dotted with appealing eateries. On this visit, we headed to Menya Dragon Kitchen, tucked away on the second floor of a commercial building near the station.

During warmer days, you might crave something light and crisp, yet still yearn for the savory, energizing richness of a hearty meal. Seeking a bowl that could satisfy both desires, we stepped through the shop's curtains. Heading up the stairs and into the shop, we were greeted by an intriguing menu filled with distinctive noodle dishes.

Among the varied choices, the standout specialty is the Lemon Ramen. At the same time, wanting something thoroughly satisfying, we also decided to order the Paiko Ramen (ramen topped with deep-fried pork). We took our time savoring both bowls: one bright with refreshing acidity, the other bold with meaty flavor.

A Refreshing Experience: Menya Dragon Kitchen's Lemon Ramen

When the Lemon Ramen arrives, its vibrant presentation and rising aroma immediately catch your attention. Neatly arranged over the broth in a white bowl are bright yellow lemon slices. The moment it is placed on the table, a fresh, juicy citrus fragrance drifts up to wake your appetite, even on a sluggish, hot day.

Taking a spoonful of the soup with the renge spoon, the first thing that spreads across your palate is the deep savoriness and rich base flavor of the broth. It is not merely light; there is a sturdy foundation of dashi (Japanese soup stock) beneath it.

Right after that rich start, the sharp, refreshing tartness of lemon comes through. The citrus neatly defines the broth's finish, leaving no greasy or heavy feeling behind. The balance between savory depth and acidity is exquisite, keeping your spoon moving for sip after sip. It delivers a revitalizing freshness without sacrificing satisfying substance—a profile perfectly tailored for warm weather.

Classic Chinese-Style Noodles and Complementary Toppings

Paired with this broth are classic, slightly nostalgic Chinese-style noodles. These yellowish strands have a smooth texture that glides down easily. Lifted with chopsticks, they carry plenty of the clear broth along with them. The citrus tang and the wholesome aroma of wheat harmonize nicely, keeping each bite effortless.

The topping selection is equally well-crafted, with each component playing its part in the bowl. The lemon slices, gradually absorbing the savory soup, offer bright bursts of acidity. The chashu (braised pork) is so tender it almost falls apart between your chopsticks, melting into rich, savory flavor as you eat.

Crisp bean sprouts add a pleasant crunch, while leafy green spinach and a soft-boiled egg bring vibrant color and mellow richness. Accents of white sesame seeds and nori seaweed layer additional depth into the soup, ensuring the bowl stays engaging down to the very last spoonful.

Bold, Meaty Flavor: The Substantial Paiko Ramen

In contrast to the refreshing lemon ramen, we ordered the Paiko Ramen to satisfy our craving for something bold and hearty.

When the bowl is served, the visual impact is unmistakable: a massive piece of paiko (deep-fried seasoned pork) sits right on top, practically hiding the noodles beneath. Fried to a crisp, fragrant crust, the pork gradually releases its savory juices into the soup as it rests in the bowl.

Take a bite, and the savory, crisp coating gives way to the juicy, robust flavor of the pork. The soup has a deep shoyu (soy sauce) base infused with the aroma of savory vegetables. As the oils and richness from the fried pork seep into the broth, it develops an even deeper, heavier savory profile.

The accompanying medium-thick curly noodles are chewy and springy, offering plenty of body to hold their own against the potent soup and hefty pork. Crisp bok choy, menma (seasoned bamboo shoots), and chopped green onions provide a refreshing counterpoint, making this generous bowl satisfying to the very end.

The Best of Both Worlds: Alternating Refreshing and Rich

Enjoying both the Lemon Ramen and the Paiko Ramen side by side offered a wonderfully varied dining experience.

After refreshing your palate with the bright, citrusy lemon broth, taking a bite of the juicy fried pork and deep soy-sauce broth creates a delightful contrast. Returning back to the cooling lift of the lemon soup keeps your appetite reset. Alternating between the light and the hearty proved to be pure comfort.

The Lemon Ramen refreshes and cuts through the heat, while the Paiko Ramen provides pure, filling satisfaction. Both bowls deliver great enjoyment from completely different angles. If you find yourself in the Fujisawa and Zengyo area, you can choose whichever suits your mood—or, if your appetite permits, enjoy this rewarding combination for yourself.

What we ordered & prices