Chabuzen

This small, slightly shabby eatery in the backstreets of Shimokitazawa is a haven for yakuzen cuisine: vegetarian food that's purported to have medicinal benefits. You'll certainly feel invigorated after trying one of Chabuzen's spicier offerings – both the vegan soup curry and ramen are available at a variety of levels of heat, from mild to what's delightfully called giga-kara ('giga-spicy'). Laden with coriander, cumin, Sichuan pepper, cinnamon and a variety of other spices, the fragrant broth packs a satisfying punch, with the option of adding extra toppings like natto and okra, and chashu slices made from veggie meat. If you need something to take the edge off the heat, try one of the soy milk shakes.