Jiro Glossary

Ramen Jiro has its own vocabulary that can be unfamiliar to first-time visitors. Knowing these terms before you go will make ordering much smoother.

※ The available toppings, terminology, and call options vary by shop. Some options may not be offered, and some shops have their own unique customs. Check the signs and notices inside the shop before ordering.

Call (コール)

The moment just before your noodles are ready when staff ask "Ninniku iremasuka?" ("Do you want garlic?"). This is when you state your topping preferences for garlic, vegetables, fat, and soy sauce.

Lot (ロット)

A batch of noodles cooked together at the same time. Everyone in the same lot is served simultaneously, so it gives you a sense of when your bowl will arrive.

Jiro-rian (ジロリアン)

A devoted fan of Ramen Jiro.

Buta (豚)

The thick, chunky pork served at Jiro — closer to a slab than a typical chashu slice.

Yasai (ヤサイ)

A mix of bean sprouts and cabbage, the standard vegetable topping at Jiro. Can be increased via the call.

Abura (アブラ)

Back fat. Can be added or increased via the call.

Karame (カラメ)

Extra soy sauce tare added to the soup, making it richer and saltier.

Mashi (マシ)

An increase in a topping. "Yasai mashi" means extra vegetables. Some shops also offer "mashi mashi" for an even larger portion.

Zen-mashi (全マシ)

Increasing all toppings — yasai, ninniku, abura, and karame — at once. Not available at all shops.

Nyuka (乳化)

The emulsified state of the broth, where pork bone and fat are fully blended together. Gives the soup its characteristic cloudy white appearance. The degree of emulsification varies by shop.

Chokukei / Direct-lineage (直系)

Shops run by owners who trained at the Mita main store and received official permission from the founder. Only these shops may use the "Ramen Jiro" name.

Norenwake (暖簾分け)

The system by which a trained disciple receives the master's blessing to open their own shop. All direct-lineage locations were established through norenwake from the Mita main store.

Sho / Dai (小・大)

Small and large portion sizes. Even the "small" at Jiro is generous compared to a typical bowl of ramen.