The best part about winter is when you seek for that big bowl of soup so your body can feel the warmth the broth gives you. Generally, my first choice would be Pho (vietnamese beef noodle soup) on that cold winter’s night but I’m one of those who prefers to eat it at home instead of out and about, so my next choice would be Japanese (one of my favourite cuisines!). A place that always hits the spot and is friendly on your wallet is Menya Mappen (George St).
Spicy Pork Miso with Soba Noodles
It’s around 5.20pm, quite early, so there’s barely a line but already limited seating. The menu is quite extensive and it really makes me overwhelmed. Should I order this or that? As it’s my turn to order I have to quickly make up my mind and I see the word “spicy pork” and that’s what I get. I opt for soba noodles because I’ve never had it before.
Tasty. Wholesome. Filling. Delicious! It’s the perfect bowl of noodle soup that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside. I must say I am a big fan of soba noodles, I probably prefer soba over udon (shh, do not tell the boy that :P)
A side of seaweed salad and kimchi makes it onto my plate. For less than a dollar each, why wouldn’t you?
Tempura sweet potato and a fish cake makes it on my friend’s plate. I love the batter – its light and crispy, just the way tempura should be!
Ontama Bukkake Udon Noodle
My girlfriend orders the ontama bukkake udon noodles with the extra egg on top. Just from her reactions she looked like she was on cloud 9. I have no idea how the japanese cook their eggs like that but I absolutely give them a standing ovation for it. It’s amazing!
For less than $9 each, we want to roll out of the restaurant. It’s my third time to Menya Mappen and I’m sure there are plenty more visits ahead. Be sure to get in early as the line does get lengthy and seats are limited. With the quality of the dishes and prices you pay, everyone walks out feeling warm and happy :D
Menya Mappen
Shop 11, 537-551 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Tel: +61 (02) 9283 5525
i think every vietnamese person prefers having pho at home! so ive got to agree with you on that one, i love home pho :D
Ive heard great reviews from menya! maybe its the one place that may be better than ramenkan? ramenkans my ultimate favourite!
the soft boiled eggs are absolutely brilliant!
I miss eating here.
I love this place! I head to the one at Bondi Junction for lunch all the time. YUM!
Geez I must be the only person to have not eaten at Menya Mappen. I seriously need to get there! Looks great!
Ahh it’s been too long since my last visit to Mappen! Their onsen eggs are swoonworthy but the DIY tempura selection is also half the fun :)
i loveeeeeeee their ontama bukkake! their egg is like crazy! i tried to do it but failed. ive never tried the spicy pork before. should go try it tonight!
did you end up going? :P i dont know how they cook their eggs like that but i want to know!
i always get the ontama mentaiko bukkake udon whenever i go! so hard to stray away from it xD
I have to agree with you on that – how can you stay away when it looks that good and tastes even better?
Winter + soup = THE GREATEST. I still can’t believe how amazing Mappen is considering the price, bukkake noodles w/ egg + kimchi 4EVA. Lovely photos! Pretty sure I’m gonna head there next time I’m around the city thanks to you.
I have not seen that “4EVA” in so long. Ahhh makes me feel so old. You should go back, with this cold that’s been lingering around us, no doubt a bowl of ramen/udon/soba noodles from menya will do the trick ;)
mmmmm love a bit bowl of noodle soup in winter! Must have one sooooon!!
I think you should make one shellie ;)
This meal is perfect for the cold! I love noodle soups to warm up :D
Needing more of it with this cold that’s been around sydney lately :(
I miss working in the city and heading to mappen for lunch
Where do you work now? You still seem to be eating your way around sydney =p
that is so damn cheap!
im suprised you’ve not been seeing as though you love your jap food betty!